June 17, 2015

Schöllenen Gorge

Given today's short ride, there was time for a bonus hike (and history lesson).

Auto, pedestrian, and train passages through a tunnel at the Schöllenen Gorge, Switzerland
To begin our loop, we walked through a tunnel with passages dedicated for autos, pedestrians, and trains, located along a key route through the Alps.

Train heading over the bridge toward the tunnel, Schöllenen Gorge, Switzerland
We followed the trail for a little more than a mile, down (and back up) steps, through tunnels, and ultimately over the old bridge itself. My legs reminded me that they'd climbed nearly 7,000 feet in the past two days.

Water cascading over rocks toward the Teufelsbrücke, Schöllenen Gorge, Switzerland
The Teufelsbrücke (Devil's Bridge) spans the Schöllenen Gorge. Several bridges preceded it, the first dating back to the 13th century. It's an impressive feat of engineering. The gorge is deep, the waters of the Reuss fast-moving. How did the first people decide it was feasible to build a bridge here, and then carry through?

River Ruess flowing through the Schöllenen Gorge, Switzerland
This site saw a battle in 1799, when the Russian general Suvorov fought against the French forces of Napoleon. A monument to the Russians who lost their lives is hewn into the adjacent cliff.

Monumental cross honoring slain Russian soldiers, Schöllenen Gorge, Switzerland
At the start of our hike, we had passed an apparent bunker in the rock wall. Fortunate are we, to come in peace.

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