Mountain hikes Glocke Nature Trail - Schluchtwelt

In the heart of Finkenberg lies a small natural gem: the Glocke, a 33-hectare protected area with impressive flora and fauna. The Glocke Nature Trail leads through the spectacular Schluchtwelt, where roaring waters, ancient forests, and fascinating geological formations shape the landscape.

Description

The starting point of the hike is in Finkenberg/Dornau at the Teufelsbrücke. Opposite the historic wooden bridge from 1876, between houses no. 300 and 301, trail no. 32 begins.

The path runs above the Tuxbach Gorge, offering impressive views into the 70-metre-deep ravine. The sound of rushing water accompanies the trail through the forest. The route continues past the cemetery towards Hochsteg.

At a junction, trail no. 32b branches off uphill towards Hotel Aussicht (house no. 306). From the hotel car park, trail no. 32a turns left into the forest, leading back to the starting point.

Tip: Around 150 metres from the hotel car park, on the left-hand side, the Zeigerpflanzentafel can be found – this is where the Schluchtwelt stamp for the Explorer’s Pass is located.

The Glocke area features a variety of vegetation zones, including rare lime and beech mixed forests as well as striking rock formations with dry vegetation. Information boards along the trail provide insights into geology, forest ecosystems, and the historical use of the land.