The beginning of the Dos Capel GeoTrail after getting off of the second ski lift.

The Beginnings: Getting to the GeoTrail

To arrive at the Dos Capel GeoTrail, take two different ski lifts to the top of a mountain. On the ride up, feel the temperature drop drastically as fog suddenly engulfs the lift. The disharmony of cowbells from the cattle grazing down below and even on the top of the mountain and GeoTrail. Upon reaching the top of the mountain, at the start of the GeoTrail, look to the right to see towering white mountains that look close enough to touch. To the left, a trail leading down toward a mountain with sheep and cattle alike grazing on it. 

[The view of the white peaks of Mt. Latemar covered by clouds from the GeoTrail.]

Putting the “Geo” in “GeoTrail”: How the Surrounding Mountains Formed

The mountain ranges formed from, what one sign describes, as the “hard work” of ancient marine organisms and ancient beaches cemented together over millions of years. Just looking at the rocks making up the mountain the different layers and sediments that went into creating the mountains can be observed. For example: volcanic rock can be observed in the mountain of Pala di Santa from volcanic eruptions around 280 million years ago; sandstone, clays, and limestones can be observed from Passo Pampeago from soft sediments around 260-242 million years ago; and reef limestone can be observed making up the white peaks of Latemar from the marine environment present around 240 million years ago. 

[An informational sign on the GeoTrail describing the formation of the different mountains seen from the GeoTrail.]

Cattle, Sheep, and Humans… Oh My!: Human Interaction with the Landscape

The first obvious human interaction with the environment is the creation and implementation of ski lifts and ski trails. The steep mountain sides are carved into by the metal ski lifts which bring hikers, scholars, and skiers alike to the top of the mountain. Second, the sight of cleared pastures from the thick trees are observable surrounding – and even on – the mountains. Humans have been traditionally cattle farming and allowing cattle to graze on the cleared land for centuries. The tradition of family farming and traditional grazing practices continue in the region even today as an integral part of tradition. The new and old traditions and practices collide throughout the GeoTrail as humans interact with the environment through tourism and farming. 

[Sheep and goats grazing on the mountain near the GeoTrail.]

From the Top: Breathtaking Views

An extreme elevation gain and near vertical hike to the top of Pala di Santa reveals the sight of the town down below, the ski lifts, the man-made water reservoir that is sometimes used to create snow when there is not enough during the ski season, and the different rock and plant types of the mountains. At over 7,000 ft in elevation, the mountain offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of the GeoTrail and surrounding area. The hike down from the top also offers a delicious lunch at a small hut where hikers can eat. The lunch options feature local cuisine, such as the polenta, mushroom, and cheese lunch pictured below. 

[The steep climb up to the top of 7,000 ft peak referenced.]

[A lunch of polenta, fried mushrooms, and cheese.]

The Dos Capel GeoTrail in Predazzo offers insight into the geological formation of the mountains as well as the human and animal interaction with the environment. Further, the GeoTrail offers cultural destinations in the region beyond traditional farming practices in its inclusion of a local lunch. Overall, the Dos Capel GeoTrail illustrates the different mountain and rock formations in the region alongside the human and animal interaction with the environment in Predazzo. 

[A look down at the steep trail, the man-made lake, and the other mountains.]