Update 9.1.2026: On the website for the Michlwirt is stated that they are closed until the end of Jan (this wasn't there when I first organised the trip). I will therefore have to come up with a new route for the hike. Registered participants will be informed
The first hike I ever took part in as a new member of the "English Group Vienna" (as the Alpine Club Vienna was known back then), was this Starlight hike on March 1st 2003, organised by Monika Lang and Jack Curtin. This was the day I first met Jack, so I guess, it was the day our friendship started, over 22 years ago.
The "Starlight-Starbrite" hikes became a bit of a tradition in the early years of our group, often organised by Jack - a tradition we have tried to revive a bit over the past few years (despite my anglicisation of the name of the event!). It seems a fitting tribute to Jack, following his passing in November 2025, to dedicate this hike to his memory.
The idea would be to repeat the hike from 2003 - i.e. from Scheuchenstein through the Klamm to "Auf der Höh", then down to the restaurant in Frohnberg (now called the Michlwirt), from where we will return in the dark, and if we're lucky, enjoy the spectacular views of the milky way, on an almost moonless night. (Unfortunately the Gauermann Museum is closed in January, so it will not be possible to visit. It is also limited when such hikes can be offered - January is ideal as the new moon falls on this weekend. February and March are not quite as good, although March could be taken as a reserve date in case of bad weather)
The route will however be adapted, to make it more doable by public transport, but we will try to keep this core part of the hike in the itenary. I expect the route would be around 15-20km in total, depending on if we do a longer or shorter approach to Scheuchenstein (which will also depend on weather and conditions, so will be decided at short notice)
Our older members who knew Jack are especially welcome to join this hike (or if some of the "older members" would like to just join at the restaurant for the meal - they would be most welcome - of course own transport would be preferable for this option). But of course the hike is open to everyone who would like to join.
