The last winter was a pretty good one in the Vienna region. Continous dumps guaranteed a series of epic powder days. However in the short run it affected the range of possibilities negatively since avalanche danger in the region stayed at level 4 for quite a long period of time.
That resulted in some really defensive route choices by us. Staying in mellow terrain and under the tree line was the right thing to do with regard to safety issues. This allowed for some fine companions for our skiing outings. Though I am not a particular dog-lover skiing with man’s best friends was extremely enjoyable. Experiencing the fun these nice creatures did have in the snow was a great pleasure and made some nice photo opportunities.
Sabine and her dogs, Hohenberger Gschwendt
Angus, Hohenberger Gschwendt
It was amazing to see the different behaviour of the two dogs due to their particular races. Angus, the shepherd, was running continuously between the three of us, soon to get exhausted. At the end of the day we almost feared we had to carry him down at our backs. Whereas Naja with her husky origins was ploughing economically through the snow and never lost her energies.
Cornices, skiers and dogs, ascent to Wildalpe
Angus
Dogs, Wildalpe
Naja, Wildalpe
Locations: Hohenberger Geschwendt and Lahnsattel-Wildalpe (Vienna Region)
Dates: February 2009
All photo credits go to my buddy Gerrit, who is also the owner of the dogs
