Unveiling the New Educational Trail on Mangart Saddle

The newly inaugurated educational trail on Mangart Saddle marks a significant step in celebrating the region’s natural marvels while offering an immersive learning experience. This trail has been meticulously curated to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of this Alpine jewel’s geological, botanical, historical, and ecological facets.

Trail Entry Points: The trail features two access points: one at the parking lot before the last tunnel and another at the final parking area. Both sections converge at the intersection leading to the mountain cabin.

Educational Contents: The trail includes 15 information panels that encompass various fields, including botany (showcasing diverse mountain flora), zoology (spotlighting the Alpine chamois), geology (foldings, creases, faults, etc.), meteorology (optimal conditions for updraft winds), traditional human activities (shepherding and alpine grazing), history (post-war events), and mountaineering (the protected Slovenian route in Mangart).

Technical Details: The trail is registered on hiking and mountaineering platforms like maPZS (visit) and OutdoorActive (visit), and is classified as moderately challenging. It spans four kilometers and elevates between 1770 and 2070 meters above sea level. A 300-meter elevation gain awaits hikers, typically requiring about two and a half hours to complete. Adequate footwear is essential, and the trail is accessible only during dry seasons. The inaugural trail exploration includes stops at the plaques commemorating a ski competition among members of the 10th Mountain Division of the US Army in 1945. Plaques are furnished with QR codes for enhanced engagement.

Many paths leading to the upper part of the saddle were created due to improper visitor guidance, causing erosive processes in an already sensitive area. The goal of the new educational trail is to redirect visitors to use a safe and nature-friendly path towards the upper section of the Mangart saddle, to preserve the delicate natural balance and, above all, protect the special mountain bird, the rock ptarmigan, which resides at Mangart saddle.

There is organized public transportation from Bovec three times a day in July and August, picking up passengers at intermediate stops en route to the saddle.

So, gear up, embrace the spirit of exploration, and embark on an unforgettable journey that transcends the ordinary—Mt. Mangart awaits!