As I sit together with a few council employees over dinner, I learn something new about our Wagrain-Kleinarl region as a ‘newcomer’. It's about a sport that I haven't tried yet, but which is now definitely high up on my bucket list. The cross-country ski trail to Jägersee is interrupted several times by tributaries of the Kleinarler Ache stream, which would make it very short. When I hear on the sidelines that they start building the bridges at the end of October, I get curious. I change my seat to find out more, and without further ado, I am invited to witness the bridge construction.
So, I charge my camera battery, make space for pictures, and head off to Kleinarl. Admittedly, it's not difficult to start thinking about the winter season in autumn. But imagining that cross-country skiers will be passing me by in a few weeks is more difficult. Especially as nature’s still looking autumnal.
When I join the bridge team, the foundation pillar in the water has already been laid. As I'm not wearing suitable protective equipment, I'm only allowed to watch, take photos, and ask questions. But I have to admit, it's impressive how quickly the experienced team makes progress. Despite the huge amount of work involved in setting up each individual bridge, they take the time to answer my questions.
As fast as the progress looks to me, of course, it is not that fast. The council workers need around one to two days per bridge, depending on the bridge. After just over a week, the 7 bridges are in place and ready to be covered with snow.
On average, the bridges are open from the end of October to the end of April. This depends on the weather and snow conditions. Ideally, assembly and dismantling should take place in good weather. There must be no snow on or around the bridges.
On average, the bridges are open from the end of October to the end of April. This depends on the weather and snow conditions. Ideally, assembly and dismantling take place in good weather. There must be no snow on or around the bridges.
With this huge amount of effort, the question naturally arises as to why they are always dismantled.
In spring after the winter season when the snow melts, the river level is higher. This jeopardises the stability of the bridges and can even wash them away. Thinking back to recent flooding, it makes perfect sense to dismantle and rebuild them.
I could ask the same question about our ski resorts. A lift alone gives us a great skiing experience, but not a long one. We like variety. Without the bridges, the trail to Jägersee would still be wonderful. The bridges, which are rebuilt every year using the same materials (and are therefore completely sustainable), extend the trail considerably and offer our cross-country skiing enthusiasts an extravagant experience with great views.
I thank the council employees and move on to other tasks. In December, I return to the now snow-covered bridge, which is already well-used by cross-country skiers. With a length of over seven kilometres, I have the feeling of being alone. I only see one cross-country skier that day. I take a closer look at several sections of the trail and realise how peaceful and beautiful it is everywhere. So, I decide to give the sport a try this winter. As far as the view is concerned, I can highly recommend the cross-country ski trail to Jägersee. Depending on where you start, the Gasthaus Jägersee or Hirner's Restaurant & Pizzeria provide refreshments (check opening times).
photo credits: Amanda Schmidt, Jasmin Schwarzenbacher