Lippoldswilen to Gfellacher near Hörnli
Distance: 35km
Do we make it to Wetzikon in two days or one day? That is the question.
After the first couple of steps the answer is clear: two days. After the two long, tough previous days, my legs still feel tired and, after discussing it with Fredy, we have to admit another 55 kilometer day would put me close to my limits. And there's really no need to do hurry. And I have the impression Fredy is secretly relieved with the decision as well.
The weather is muggy. Cloudy, warm with only light winds. The scenery a mix of farmland and forest. Nothing special.
As we get closer to the Hörnli, a 1100 meter hill located in the highlands of Zürich, the scenery gets more interesting, the terrain steeper. Also the clouds give way to the sun.
Progress is good but, despite the good company, it is a bit of a constant fight for both of us. Second to last day for me until reaching another milestone. Home. These second to last days have never been easy for me mentally. I made this experience on other hikes before. Once we arrive at our designated camp spot, I am mighty grateful. It's clear at first sight though that fitting two tents there will be a tight fit. As the forecast predicts a clear sky for the night, I decide to bivy. But until we can settle in for the night, it's still a while. We have a nice fire going, cooking dinner over it. At some point a family of four is joining us for two hours. It's something I got used to while sleeping in shelters for the last couple of weeks. For Fredy, the greenhorn however, it's mildly annoying. Completely understandable.
Once they have finally left, a spectacular sunset follows. More or less right in front of it: Feldberg. The highest hill of the Black Forest. Feels great to see it again so clearly 5 days after watching the sunrise from up there.
Slowly but surely we are getting ready for the night. Once in my sleeping bag, I realize how happy I am with the decision not to rush and split the hike into two days. Otherwise, we would not have seen this fantastic sunset.
Tomorrow, it will be an early start. Watching sunrise from Hörnli. Hopefully as nice as this sunset.
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George Mills (Monday, 11 July 2022 20:05)
Good to see you taking it easy and
Enjoying your own back yard as much as foreign places. I see from your track that you are almost home at 8.00am so if must have been an early start and I hope the sunrise was up to expectations. Home is where the heart is.ll the best for you and your family..
Rob (Tuesday, 12 July 2022 02:36)
A good call guys. I know you know your limitations but I'm glad you decided to not stretch yourself, and push your day. To appreciate the rest, sunset, and company is wonderful. To be quite honesty, less of a worry for me that you are pushing yourself too close to your limits repetitively. My concern isn't so much for the now, but of the years ahead. Thriving in the moment, yet taking into account your body, in time. Our body is mechanical. Glad of its rest I'm sure.