It is not a matter of course that the hiking trails and bike trails are always in top condition. And it's not rocket science either, because the person who makes hiking and mountain biking in the Zugspitz Arena a safe undertaking is easy to name: The trail shaper is called Michael Prantl and he takes care of the routes in the Zugspitz region until the start of winter by assessing and improving them.
Everything you need for safe hiking in the Zugspitz Arena
The young Austrian can hardly imagine anything better than spending his day outdoors in nature. That's a good thing, because his job isn't easy. “It's physically hard work. But I create something here that I enjoy doing myself,” says Prantl. This means that hikers and cyclists in the Zugspitz Arena Bayern Tirol never have to worry about their own safety and can enjoy the view of nature without any worries. Nevertheless, he also appreciates his idyllic working environment: “It's just fun that I can make a difference here and have nature at my side. I can hardly imagine doing any other job.”
From hobby to profession: the fascination of mountain biking
Prantl's own interest in mountain bikes paved the way for this unusual profession. He worked for several years as a project manager for a Swiss company and designed trails. Today, when he walks through a forest, he can always imagine where a new trail could go. Creating new trails in the Zugspitz region for hiking or cycling is a big dream for Michael Prantl.
Keeping hiking in the Zugspitz Arena safe and reliable
But for now, Prantl is taking care of the region's existing and extremely varied trails. Using special tools such as motorized wheelbarrows, as well as vibratory plates, rakes and small excavators, he is repairing and securing the trails. This is because the quality of the paths is influenced by both high footfall and the weather. “I often carry out small repairs when the weather has caused erosion,” explains Prantl.
The perfect man for the job
His job as a trail shaper could not be better suited to Michael Prantl. The young man is out and about almost every day, making sure that hiking and cycling in the Zugspitz Arena remains a safe and enjoyable experience. “I'm very lucky that I was able to turn my hobby into a profession,” enthuses the Austrian, who has loved spending his free time on his mountain bike since childhood.
Michael's personal favorite: the Blindsee Trail
Michael Prantl has a favorite trail and is happy to pass this tip on to others. He particularly likes the Blindsee Trail, for example. This trail is a single trail that leads from Grubigstein to Blindsee. There are sections with lots of gravel and great views of the water. “It's a breathtaking view and you could be forgiven for thinking you're in Little Canada.” Good to know: This trail is challenging and bikers must have good riding technique. Down by the lake, the level of difficulty makes it all the more enjoyable to jump into the cool water.
