Bletterbach Gorge: a journey through Earth's history
The Bletterbach Gorge (German: Bletterbach) lies at the foot of the Whitehorn, in the Corno Nero Nature Park, marking the natural boundary between Aldino and Redagno. This spectacular canyon stretches over 8 kilometers, with depths reaching up to 400 meters in some places. As an integral part of the Dolomites, UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is an unmissable destination, especially for geology and nature enthusiasts.
A thousand-year-old geological treasure
About 15,000 years ago, the Bletterbach river began to erode its rocky bed, exposing extraordinary geological stratifications from different epochs. These formations make Bletterbach Gorge a true open book on Earth’s history, offering valuable insights into the formation of the Dolomites.
The deepest layers of the gorge consist of porphyry, followed by sandstone and finally the typical dolomitic limestone rocks. Among the most fascinating discoveries are fossilized footprints of prehistoric reptiles, as well as fossils of snails, shells, and other ancient life forms, some of which are exhibited in the geological museum of Redagno.
The Geopark and the geological trail
To make the visit even more engaging, the Bletterbach Geopark has been created, with a geo-trail that guides visitors through the gorge, offering a truly unique educational experience. The main starting points for the hike are the Aldino Visitor Center and the Redagno Geological Museum. Along the trail, 16 informational panels explain the different geological periods and rock formations, making the visit both engaging and interactive.
A hike between nature and science
For a complete experience, a visit to the geological museum is recommended, where unique artifacts are preserved. Additionally, on certain days, it is possible to join guided tours along the gorge, to uncover the secrets of this extraordinary canyon directly with expert geologists.
The Bletterbach Gorge is more than just a hike: it is a journey through millions of years of Earth's history, in one of the most fascinating corners of South Tyrol.