Alpine Exploration

Like all glaciers, also Gurgler Ferner has a moving past. Glaciers are flowing and changing permanently. Crevasses can appear and disappear again. Not least because of this fact, Gurgler Ferner features a suspension bridge. Hikers can now cross the moraines effortlessly. The unrivaled bridge is named after Auguste Piccard, the famous researcher who took off in his hot air balloon some 90 years ago in order to set a world record – but he landed on Gurgler Ferner. The locals rescued Piccard and took him down to the village. A moving past. An adventure that hikers can rediscover to some extent even today.

Sure, the summits, minerals, mountain brooks, trees and forests that you can explore in Gurgl existed first. But there are indications that our ancestors settled in the mountains around Gurgl as early as 9000 years ago. Scenic Beilstein area, which you pass on the Archaeological Loop Hiking Trail, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the high mountains. Geocaching, a kind of treasure hunt in which you have to find hiding places, is mainly intended for the youngest researchers. Exciting highlight for all ages: garnet hunting in Gaisbergtal side valley.

Okay, you're not really on or in the ice. But at the Nature Park exhibition on Hohe Mut Alm you can feel real glaciers up close. The mighty ice fields of Rotmoos and Gaisberg side valleys can also be seen through the large glass windows. And there's also something to listen to: a new smartphone audio guide for Hohe Mut, Water Strider Trail and Rotmoostal. Along the route, hikers will get an insight into the mysterious nature and mountain world by listening to single stories.