FORCHET GEOLOGICAL TRAIL IN SAUTENS

The Forchet, a vast and wood-covered rock slide area, is a landscape that has only been negligibly altered by men. It is completely different from the surrounding landscapes of the entrance of the Ötztal valley. Some 3000 years ago rock slide material (180m³) from the Tschirgant face buried the entrance of the Ötztal valley to Ambach and past Sautens. The Inn and the Ötztal Ache rivers had to clear a path through the fauna and flora. People had a hard time, too. The entire area was covered by chaotic accumulations of rocks. A wild landscape that defies cultivation still today.

The hiking trail is accessible from the villages of Sautens, Haiming and Roppen. It is well-marked and can be accessed at different points. The trail is ideal for the young and old, can be walked on easily and features resting areas.

This trail is motivating and encourages observing and showing initiative. Hiking is meant to be fun and have a lasting effect. This natural hiking trail is also meant to generate respect for nature and to enable an encounter with nature without reservation.