Best canyons around Nals - Nalles are found in a region characterized by its vineyards, apple orchards, and rose gardens, serving as a base for outdoor activities. The area features diverse geological formations, including gorges carved by rivers and streams. These natural landscapes offer various opportunities for exploration, from accessible trails to more challenging routes. The surrounding South Tyrol and Trentino regions provide additional canyoning experiences.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Just a few minutes' walk from the center of Lana, a completely different world opens up: the Gaul Gorge at the foot of the castle hill of Braunsberg Castle. Steep rocky slopes rise up on both sides, the river Falschauer babbles over the stony stream bed and even in midsummer the temperatures between the cool rock walls are pleasantly cool. Completely different types of rock come together here: between the quartz porphyry and the primary rock of the Old Gneisse, there is also a narrow strip of granite. Only a narrow strip of land between the massive rocks leads over the unspoiled mountain stream. From the Gaulwiese, a well-secured path leads over suspension bridges, past a roaring waterfall, further into the wildly romantic and increasingly narrow gorge; or up to Braunsberg Castle with a beautiful view over Lana.
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Some people start gasping for breath 😉
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Very nice walk, children also have fun here.
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The path leads us over two suspension bridges to the end of the part of the Gaul Gorge that is open to visitors.
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Between steep cliffs, you always walk along the False Auer to the end of the gorge. Especially worthwhile in midsummer, when there is a refreshing coolness between the rock faces.
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Short but definitely worthwhile walk.
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A really very strenuous staircase. No step is like the other, sometimes very high to walk on.
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The path leads us down a few wooden stairs to the Felix waterfall. Since the steps are different heights, the descent and subsequent ascent is quite exhausting.
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The region offers diverse geological formations, including gorges carved by rivers and streams. You can experience the unique Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht, which lead to a waterfall. Another interesting feature is the Staircase in the Hocheppan Gorge, a man-made structure within a natural gorge. Don't miss the beautiful Tret Waterfall, a natural monument with a scenic viewpoint.
Yes, the Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht are easily accessible and suitable for families, including small children and prams, offering a pleasant walk in the shade. The Gaul Gorge in Lana is also noted as family-friendly. For guided canyoning, operators like Canyoning Südtirol (near Lake Caldaro) offer 'Family River' tours specifically designed for families and children.
The trails vary in difficulty. The Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht are easily accessible for everyone. However, sections like the Staircase in the Hocheppan Gorge require sturdy shoes and concentration due to secured metal steps. The Tret Waterfall involves some stairs but is generally considered a nice walk suitable for most. For more challenging experiences, guided canyoning tours in the wider South Tyrol region offer options from beginner-friendly 'Wild River' to more demanding technical descents.
The region is characterized by vineyards, apple orchards, and rose gardens, suggesting pleasant conditions from spring through autumn. For canyoning activities, the warmer months are generally preferred. The path to the Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht is particularly enjoyable on hot days as it's shaded.
Yes, the surrounding South Tyrol and Trentino regions offer several guided canyoning opportunities. Rablà (Rabland), about 23 kilometers from Nals, is a frequently mentioned spot for rafting and canyoning. Canyoning Südtirol, based near Bolzano, provides professional guides and equipment for various tours, including 'Wild River' for first-timers and experts, and 'King River' for private experiences. The Passeiertal Valley also offers guided canyoning with mountain guides.
Beyond exploring the canyons, the region is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails, including challenging loops like the 'Panoramic View of Merano – Zwingenberg Castle loop'. There are also options for Gravel Biking, with routes like the 'Salten Meadows – Überetsch Railway Cycle Path loop'. For hikers, Mountain Hikes are available, such as the 'Perdonig Waterfall loop'.
For trails involving gorges and stairs, sturdy shoes are essential, especially for sections like the Staircase in the Hocheppan Gorge. If you plan on guided canyoning, operators typically provide specialized equipment like wetsuits and safety gear. Otherwise, comfortable clothing, water, and sun protection are advisable for general exploration.
Yes, the Schwarzenbach / Rio Nero canyon, situated between Bolzano and Trento, is notable for its distinctive red rock, which creates a unique and atmospheric descent. This canyon features a deep and narrow section with significant water flow, offering spectacular abseiling opportunities.
The duration of canyoning tours can vary. For instance, the 'Rafting on the Adige in Val Venosta' tour from Rablà offers a thrilling experience. Guided canyoning tours by operators like Canyoning Südtirol are typically half-day or full-day experiences, depending on the chosen route and difficulty level.
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and accessibility. The Gaul Gorge in Lana is admired for its bizarre rocky backdrop, unique vegetation, and picturesque location. The Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht are popular for being easily accessible and offering a pleasant, shaded walk. The Staircase in the Hocheppan Gorge is considered a beautiful and spectacular section of the 3 castles hike.
While the region offers many rivers and streams that carve through gorges, specific designated wild swimming spots within the canyons themselves are not explicitly highlighted. However, the general area of South Tyrol and Trentino, with its numerous natural water bodies, may offer opportunities for swimming in suitable, safe locations outside of technical canyoning routes. Always exercise caution and check local regulations before swimming in natural waters.
While the main highlights like the Gaulschlucht and Hocheppan Gorge are well-known, the broader region of South Tyrol and Trentino holds many lesser-known gorges and torrents. The Rio Sass Canyon in the Nonstal Valley, though a bit further afield, offers a spectacular experience through unique geological formations, explored via walkways and stairs, providing a fascinating natural environment away from the most popular spots.


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