Hiking is highly recommended. But where? And when? I answered the first question in the previous blog. Today’s topic is the second question: when you should go hiking. Surprisingly, humans have remained social animals since the Stone Age. The same applies to the timing of a hike. Whit Sunday, the sun is shining, and we set off from Oberstdorf at 15:00. Or? I’d say it’s better not to, because tens of thousands of others have had the same idea.
In principle, I would try to avoid Sunday afternoon as a time for hiking. Why not go on Saturday morning instead? Most people will be jostling in the supermarkets, while you’ll have the fresh air to yourself. Not everyone has the opportunity to hike on weekdays—I admit that. But especially during the warmer months, you could fit in an after-work hike. I often don’t set off until 17:00 or 18:00 on weekdays and make use of the long, bright evenings. I guarantee that even popular hiking spots are quiet at that time.
I can also highly recommend another off-peak time. It’s wonderful to set off for the mountains in the early morning dew on a summer Sunday. The air is still fresh and cool, and while the other hikers are considering over breakfast at 10:00 whether to set off from Oberstdorf at 15:00, you’ll already have completed your circular hike.
Another way to avoid the crowds on hiking trails is to hike in bad weather. On a weekend in April, Saturday is forecast to be sunny, while Sunday is expected to bring graupel showers? I would choose Sunday if you’re looking for solitude in the forest. Most hikers and walkers are sun worshippers, and I would always have agreed with that too. I’ve never thought much of the saying that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. Of course there is bad weather. But these days I actively seek it out when planning my hikes, because then I have the great outdoors to myself, apart from my own aerosols.
And now, have fun on your next hike! We probably won’t run into each other because you set off at completely different times than I do.
And always remember: #esgehtBÄRGAUF
