Zugspitze 

The Zugspitze is Germany's highest mountain, at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level. You access the top by a series of cogwheel train, cable car and good old fashion climbing.  At the mountain station, the highest point you can reach without climbing, you can enjoy views of four countries from the observation platforms or sit down to a meal at one of three restaurants and beer gardens at the top. Although the train and cable car take you almost all the way up, to access the cross at the very top, you must climb, and access is not really all that easy. Guide cables and metal steps have been put in place, but the ground is in its natural, rugged condition. Due to the vast numbers of people making the climb each year, the rocks have become worn smooth, making the climb even more treacherous. There are no safety measure at all; if you slip and fall, it's a long way down before you come to a stop.

The cogwheel train. This train goes most of the way up the mountain (a 40 minute ride), then you take a cable car to the mountain station.

A picture of the mountain station taken from the cross at the top

Stacey hanging on for life. No, it's not warm enough for shorts, we just weren't smart enough to think about that.

Kevin at the top

Kevin at the cross at the top

Kevin climbing down from the top (red arrow). As you can see, there are not a lot of safety devices in place.

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