Kandersteg Day 8

24 Jul 2009

Glacier Hike Part 2, International Campfire

Our day began with breakfast at the hut.  While we were gearing up for the hike a helicopter landed, probably to drop off some supplies for the hut.  Once we were packed we headed out across the glacier to cross the Petersgrat ridge -- a little over 10,000 ft in altitude.  The scenery was amazing and the air was thin.  Finally got off the glacier, removed the crampons, and started hiking down.  Once back in the valley we were able to catch a bus to the train station and took the train through the tunnel back to Kandersteg.  After dinner, it was time for the International Campfire.  Amazing how the rain (oh yes, it was definitely raining) didn't dampen anyone's spirits.  The campfire area was filled and each group performed their skit or song.  We reprised our old skit, "If Your Scoutmaster Ran on Windows", but had "updated" it for Vista.  The skit was a big hit and the campfire was lots of fun.  Fitting end to a wonderful day.

Early morning at the Mutthorn Hütte.                                                              Looking out from the hut

Breakfast is served.  Food sure does taste good at 10,000 feet!

Helicopter takes off after a few minutes on the ground.            Getting ready to head out

Good bye to the hut warden and his family . . .                                               . . . and it's off across the glacier

It's a big glacier!

Taking a break

On the Petersgrat ridge, approximate height: 10,100 ft

Starting back down

Off the glacier and onto snow                                                                            Time for lunch

                                                                                                                        Looking back up at the glacier

Switching from ice and snow trekking to hiking                                               Rob, our guide from Dublin

Waiting for the bus                                                                                            that took us to the train

Boarding the train for Kandersteg                                                        Time for a little rest before dinner and the International Campfire

Ready for the campfire (and yes, that's mud from all of the rain)                           Lighting the campfire

We perform "Scoutmaster on Windows" . . .                                                  . . . to the delight of the crowd (and least that's how we saw it)

One of the Italian troops is teaching us a song.