We're running for the trails in our new KEEN trail runners – and we're sharing our favorite places to go. Check back for more trail run reports from KEENers around the world.
My Run Log
Location: August-Schuster-Haus trail in Unterammergau, Germany
Distance: 7 miles
Shoes worn: KEEN Seek trail runners
Hydration: Electrolyte drink mix
Pre-run nutrition: Coffee + banana bread
The August-Schuster-Haus trail is a mix of gravel forest road and steeper rocky sections, about an hour south of Munich. I joined a small community of runners to test out our new Seek trail running shoes with APR Mag. We started in a quiet parking lot near Unterammergau. While the sun lifted over the trees, C.SOL Roastery poured hot coffee for the group, fifteen of us in total, layered up and ready for the climb. Laughter, gear talk, and the smell of fresh espresso set an easy tone before we hit the trail.
Favorite Part:
There’s something about crisp Bavarian air in autumn. In the shadow of the Ammergau Alps, the forest glows in deep gold, waterfalls cut through narrow valleys, and soft trails wind up toward open ridge light.
Toughest Part:
The climb. The route began gently, threading through pine forest and over moss-covered roots before turning steeper and rockier. Autumn leaves softened each step, waterfalls flashed between trees, and soon the valley opened to sweeping views. After roughly 7 km and 2500 feet of ascent, we reached the August-Schuster Haus am Pürschling (5,131 feet), a mountain hut perched beneath the final ridge.
Then it was time for the descent. From the hut, the trail dropped quickly, a 4 km downhill over loose gravel, packed dirt, wet leaves and short rocky pitches. It was the kind of terrain that demands focus and sure traction. The Seek delivered: steady braking on gravel, responsive cushioning on compact ground, and that feeling of flow that comes when your trail running footwear matches the rhythm of the mountain.
Personal Takeaway:
What stuck with me most was how easy the whole morning felt. Good people, good coffee, and that crisp Bavarian air that wakes you up better than any espresso. Testing Seek with a small crew like this reminded me why I love building this category, real trails, real feedback, no fuss. Just running, laughing, and seeing the product do its job.
My Shoes:
Everyone in the group ran in Seek trail runners. “They’re soft but steady, exactly what you want when the terrain keeps changing,” one runner said. “The Seek gripped everything — rock, root, even wet leaves. Didn’t think about my footing once,” another added.
Other Gear:
We all wore hydration packs with water and snacks, plus layers that could be shed as the sun came up. Most people ran in shorts and long sleeves on the way up, cool but comfortable once we got moving. After the food break at the hut, everyone threw on an extra layer for the downhill since the ridge wind made it colder than expected. Funny detail: five people showed up wearing the exact same distance running socks. Total coincidence, but it says a lot about what runners actually trust out there.
Pro Tips:
August-Schuster Haus serves hearty Bavarian fare, warm soup, and drinks for refueling. A great, picturesque stop before heading back down.
Photography credit: A special thanks to @nis.alps for capturing the spirit of the trail.
