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Published: July 28th 2016
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Coming off of the last day of school and an afternoon of relaxation and copious amounts of pool time for most, the plan was to wake everyone up again with a brisk hike in the Swabian Alps. The itinerary called for a 9.4k, roughly 6 mile long hike over the course of four hours or so. It was a modest trek on paper, and it exceeded all expectations in reality.
We caught the bus at 10 from Haigerloch School for the hour long journey to the trailhead. Most students were a bit apprehensive at the thought of sustained physical exertion over the course of several hours. But they never complained and were ready and willing to give it a go.
We began the approach with a walk along the valley floor under a canopy of branches, next to a briskly flowing stream, looking out upon a green meadow surrounded on three sides by a forested ridge. As the path began a gentle incline, we could see the first destination of this trek, a beautiful, tall waterfall, spilling from the rocks above and falling perhaps two hundred feet. We paused for pictures before ascending the trail and stairs along side
the falls. About half way up, there was a spur path that led behind the main flow. Several intrepid students took the opportunity to exert a bit of extra energy in order to grab a selfie at that spot.
We moved on now, ascending a more significant grade when a roll of thunder echoed through the hills. A few concerned looks exchanged, but we moved ahead nonetheless, following the German teachers lead. Just ahead was shelter, and a cafe of course, because what else would you expect to find along a hiking path in the wilderness. That rumble of thunder was the only one heard all day, as the skies remained partly cloudy and the temperature very comfortable.
We lounged at the top of the falls in the picnic area and had lunch. Some bought a cold water or juice to drink, while others purchased an ice cream to enjoy. About thirty minutes later, we were off again, ascending the steepest portion of this loop trail. We climbed steadily up switchbacks for another mile before attaining the flat top of the ridge. All told, the climb was about 1,500 feet.
The ridge walk was beautiful, with open
meadows and farmers fields between the forest trees. Quaint farmhouses and barns adorned the landscape as we moved steadily along. A large equestrian farm provided our next respite. A ten minute pause for a sandwich or some water before our descent down the ridge was enjoyed by all.
Up and moving once again, we switchbacked on down the trail through the filtered light of the sun through the trees. It was a good, solid trail with quality footing and was very easy to follow. We found the second waterfall, this one emptying into a man made stone pool with rocks covered in heavy moss. It was really a zen like setting, that is, aside from the 43 kids surrounding it, talking excitedly and snapping photos.
Further down the trail, as it began to level out once more, we entered an orchard and meadows with wonderful views of the surrounding valley and distant towns. Small farmhouses and quaint cottages dotted the landscape as we walked.
Soon, we were back at our starting point. As some gazed back upon our route, they were amazed at just how far we came. Up the left side of the ridge, along its
top, and down the right. It was really quite impressive how much we accomplished today. A deserved sense of accomplishment permeated the group. We accomplished out task so quickly that the bus hadn't even yet returned. This turned out to be a good thing however, as our kids were able to take some time to enjoy an ice cream from the cafe near the trailhead.
The bus ride back to school was a quiet one as many of the students were asleep, or nearly so. I think it is going to be a quiet night at home this evening with early bed times for many.
Tomorrow is our final day here in Germany already. It is a free day to spend with families. Shopping and swimming seem to be the most oft mentioned agenda items. Hopefully our kids will be able to spend a last few quality hours with their partners before we depart on Saturday morning. We will be able to spend some time as a group together tomorrow evening at the farewell BBQ as well. I have no doubt that it will be a fun, but emotional event.
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