Nyu and the forest of moss
- alastairbourne
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
Hike date: August 29, 2026
Today’s plan was to take my tent into the North Alps, but by Wednesday this week it was clear that the weather wasn’t going to cooperate. Instead I headed to the nearby Yatsugatake range for a short hike that would hopefully not be too badly affected by the rain.
As predicted there were only a few cars at the free parking space at Mugikusa pass. Within a few metres it was clear why. The rain was pelting down and the trail was flooded from downpours over the previous days. Despite this I continued on and was able to at least partially enjoy the misty Shirakoma lake and the forest of moss, which seemed to be enjoying the wet conditions. I continued up towards the rocky outcrop of Nyu despite ever more slippery boardwalks, rocks and tree roots that formed the parts of the trail that were not underwater. It was quite a challenge to stay dry - a challenge that I failed to accomplish. By the time I reached Nyu my shoes and socks were wet and my Gore Tex rainwear was starting to get damp. Finally I arrived at Nyu, but to no great surprise the wind was up and the views were obscured by thick fog. With the rain getting steadily heavier, I decided not to take one of the longer trails back to my car and headed straight back the way I came.
I was wet and cold when I returned to my car. Did I have a fun hike? Of course I did!
Check here for more information about Nyu.
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