Sep 13

Sep 13 Running along the Bastei Bridge and through the Saxon Switzerland National Park - Dresden, Germany

Just prior to the lock-downs in 2020 because of the Corona virus pandemic, I took a side trip to an area just east of Dresden, Germany, after a work trip to Stuttgart. It proved to be a great location for an Ultrarunning Destination. I visited the Saxon Switzerland National Park and got to run many miles through the tall sandstone peaks poking up from the forested landscape. Besides the amazing beauty of these peaks, there is also a man made structure, a bridge, that has been in place for over 200 years. The Bastei Bridge is a wonder in its own right, but also gives great access to views of the surrounding countryside. It is from these peaks you can see into the distance where this trail run will take you.

I started my run by taking a cab from my hotel to the Bastei Bridge. I wanted to cover as much interesting landscape as possible on my run so decided on doing a point to point. Since this run was also in early February, the days were still fairly short so I also wanted to maximize the daylight. The bridge area itself is nice for a short hike where you can see the bridge from different vantage points. In addition, as you look north and east you can see the Elbe river far below that has the trail you’ll follow into the heart of the Saxon Switzerland National Park with the best sandstone peaks.

After touring the bridge, I descended from the Bastei and began my journey east. The trail takes you along the river and meanders through some rolling hills. Beyond the beautiful nature, you will also run through the spa town Bad Schandau. Given the time of year, there were next to no people out on the trail or in the town. It’s easy to imagine how beautiful this area is in the summer's peak.

Once you get into the heart of the national park, you are free to explore the trails that wind into, around and up the sandstone peaks. There are many grand points where you can stop and take in the scenery. Some of these trails you have to hike since they are up and down very large ladders and stairways. If you are afraid of heights or don’t like open ladders, this part of the trip is one to avoid!

I’m lucky to have had the opportunity to make this ultrarunning trip prior to the travel restrictions put in place this year and am looking forward to more adventures once we can travel internationally again! Until then, I will continue to train for my next Ultrarunning Destination trip.