In today’s post, I’ll look back at the two one-day October hikes.

October proved itself to be a tricky month when it comes to weather. Chilly mornings were common, but the day temperatures were a rollercoaster. The first hike was in the luckier part – once I warmed up in the initial ascension.

Once close to the first peak, I had the chance to enjoy some sunlight.

Yet, despite the pleasant weather, the place wasn’t nearly as crowded as it could be. It was also clear that while the mountains had some sun, the lowlands were trapped in low clouds and/or fog.

At the pass, I took a short break to admire the renovated chalet, dating back to 1898. A major part of them was destroyed in a fire back in 2014 and reopened in 2020 after a four-year renovation using locally sourced wood and original building techniques.

The trails I took from there on were mostly forested, so lookouts were few once I left the pass, but I could enjoy the forests starting to turn. It was quite clear, though, that the most picturesque and colorful part of autumn is still to come.

On my way down, I took a trail that passes some small waterfalls and tiny cascades – as close as it is, I haven’t taken this trail for almost 25 years, always choosing a different one when I was in this location.

And, as the woods opened up above the village, I took the time to enjoy the bright weather and the first hints of yellow in the trees.

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The next week wasn’t as lucky. The weather turned gloomy mid-week and promised no better for the weekend. This location was chosen for the groves of old trees that could look charming this time of the year, if only they wouldn’t be shrouded in fog and clouds…

The trail could also turn tricky with the damp grass and soil. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the raw beauty of nature, especially in the form of fungi…

…which had no issues growing from stumps and deadwood in case of some species.

And, in some cases, even from trees still standing.

Getting above the woods would, in summer, open up far sights. This time, we could only enjoy the nearest surroundings.

And, at this point, we were also exposed to the wind – which wasn’t cold, fortunately, but it was quite strong. My sister with her friend decided to take the first trail downhill, while I continued towards the peak with my friend, buffeted by the wind and light rain. The first part had us going on a grassy plain and easily soaked my pants and boots, though at least my underpants remained dry enough.

On our way down from the main peak, the nearby rock formation stepped out from the clouds, finally allowing us to enjoy a nice view.

Looking down the gaps in the clouds meant we could enjoy some of the autumn colors around.

Which was also the case on our way down to the village where we started.

Unfortunately, a good part of this year’s October was gloomy and damp, so this wasn’t the treat I hoped it to be, and we might need to try again a couple of years later.

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I took a break the next weekend, as the weather was also gloomy. At the end of the month, I went for a 4-day hiking trip, which will be covered in a separate post.