Читать книгу Walking in the Bavarian Alps. 70 mountain walks and treks in southern Germany онлайн

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Turning sharply east, the trail (marked on the map as Laufbacheckweg) now heads towards the Laufbacher-Eck. Before reaching it, however, it is first necessary to cross a steep rock face below the Lachenkopf. This very short section of track does not present any real problems (a wire rope is provided), but the rock is very smooth and some care is necessary if it is wet. After successfully navigating this obstacle it is not long before you begin the steep ascent up to the saddle just below the Laufbacher Eck (2179m). The summit is quickly reached from here.

The tremendous panorama is dominated, to the north, by the chain of mountains stretching from the Nebelhorn to the Breitenberg (the route of the famous Hindelanger Klettersteig or via ferrata). To the northeast is the Rauhhorn and neighbouring peaks, while southeast it is the mighty rock pyramid of the Hochvogel that claims attention.

From the saddle, descend quite steeply down a slippery, pebble-strewn path towards (but not right down to) a mountain rescue hut (Bergwachthütte on map). This stretch usually coincides with the midday heat, but before climbing up to the Himmeleck there is a good spot where you can pause for lunch below the Schneck, a distinctive rock pinnacle which, when observed from a position further south, takes on the appearance of an immense snail crawling downhill. At the Himmeleck Saddle (2001m) you can stop for another breather; this spot is known among botanists because of the edelweiss that grows here. These rare flowers are protected and picking them is strictly forbidden. A short detour to the right goes up a grass slope to the Himmeleck summit (2151m).