Finstertaller Stausee, Austria

Dismal day really ... Bryon's back was still playing up, and he cloud was down. One good thing was that we could have an explore and see if we could work off his back and then make a decision.

The aim was to head up to the dam and see how things went .. if it was good we would continue, otherwise call it a day.

Outside the hut we got ready in the usual manner, and although we were not in a hurry,, we still the first away.

Heading up and across the ski area, which seemed to be preparing for a half pipe and snow board tricks competition, to the Rodel run on the far side.

Then up a red run, the prepared snow was slightly crisp on the top but this would not last long.

Up at the Graf Ferdinand Haus we left the piste and headed along the service track to the dam base.

This was a little sparse in places and we had to traverse above it .. the uneven nature of this with one foot higher than the other was not good for Bryon and we realized that the Dam was the target for today.

The trail cut across the face of the dam in a rising traverse then zig-zaged up the the other side.

Finally coming out at the top.

The water was still and reflective, a somber feel for what would be our last route this trip.

We took off the skins and readied for the descent. A little bit hesitant as the snow was a little crusty to start with.

Once teh initial turns had been made we were soon into our stride, and by the time we were back on the piste it was back in the groove ... the piste was slushy and it was only 11am! ... definitely supported the need to go higher or go home message.

We did not want to risk Bryon's back any more so after packing everything away and taking our leave of the hut, we started the long journey home.

This time we did not drive through the night, but popped up the roof  just before Belgium and grabbed a few hours in a rest area - I was worried I may not sleep through the noise, especially as the trucks started up at midnight ... but not problem, I slept through to 6am.

So ended another trip.