Ötztal Nature Park

The Ötztal Nature Park is Tirol's second largest nature park covering 510 km2 and extends from the valley floor up into high alpine terrain. Characterized by extensive glacier areas, ancient stone pine forests and a unique mountain lake ambience, the varied protected areas attract visitors with an incomparable wealth of facets.

Facts:

• Since 19 September 2006
• Area: 510 km²
• 2nd largest nature park in Tirol
• 3rd largest nature park in Austria
• 95 km² of glacier area
• 67 glaciers
• 100 km of high alpine trail network
• 6 theme hiking trails
• 152 mountains over 3,000 meters
• 48 mountain huts & alpine pasture inns
• Tirol’s largest waterfall

You will find further information points across Ötztal at different valley levels, focusing on different special features.

• Info point Ambach: The “reception room” of the Ötztal Nature Park is located at the entrance to the valley. Information on 60 points of natural history & cultural and historical interest are available on the central touchscreen, visualized on a true-to-life terrain relief.
• Info point Niederthai: The topography of the surrounding landscape shown on a 6 x 4 m information display. The main focus is on the formation of Tauferberg area, which dates back to the “Köfels rockslide”. It also focuses on the strenuous mountain farming conditions and the resulting biodiversity.
• Info point Gries: White waters are the main topic at the info point in Gries, using a 6 x 4 m model of the alpine landscape. The primeval power of Fischbach and Winnebach brooks, which flow together here in Gries, is particularly relevant. Site-specific information about the function of a protective forest and the history of the mountain village of Gries complement the main focus.
• Info point Vent: The 50 m² exhibition in the listed rectory building is dedicated to a variety of natural and cultural topics surrounding Vent. Comprising a huge photo gallery about traditional sheep drives between Vent and South Tyrol, stories about the history of settlement as well as the tradition of field names and the history of the Alpine Club.
• Info point Hohe Mut: This 135 m² interactive nature park exhibition on the subject of “Glaciers” is located at 2,670 m above sea level in the basement of Hohe Mut Alm. Exclusive exhibits, such as a fossilized ibex horn, broaden the spectrum and a real “mini glacier” can also cool down heated minds.