Nationalpark: Val Mingèr – Sur il Foss – Fuorcla Val dal Botsch – Ofenpassstrasse

A varied pass hike that links two regions of the Swiss National Park with different topographies. In addition to the species-rich mountain flora, the possibility of observing deer in the Val Mingèr, the witch's head, the alluvial fans in the rear Val Plavna and the magnificent view from the top of the pass on the Fuorcla Val dal Botsch, 2677 metres above sea level, await you. Note: Dogs are not allowed in the Swiss National Park, not even on a leash. Further information and all protection regulations can be found at www.nationalpark.ch/en/visit/hiking/protection-regulations/.

A visit to the Museum Schmelzra in S-charl, with its bear exhibition, is very rewarding. The experience-oriented exhibition gives an insight into the past, the way of life, the biology and the return of the brown bears. It is especially suited for children.

On the adjacent bear adventure trail, 9 interactive stations captivate young and old and provide practical tips on how to behave in a bear area.

From the Mingèr post bus stop, the path leads over the dam wall directly into the National Park. On the left, caves appear as if carved in stone, and the head of a witch can be seen. The path leads idyllically uphill along the stream to the Mingèr rest area. The meadow at this resting place is home to many marmots, while many deer often graze on the opposite slope. The trail leads west to the Sur il Foss crossing (2317 m a.s.l.). The route now leaves the National Park and leads through huge scree fields first downhill and then slightly uphill again to the Fuorcla Val dal Botsch pass (2677 m a.s.l.). Here the view opens up to the north, to the Pisoc chain, the striking peak of Piz Plavna Dadaint and the valley floor of Val Plavna. From here the route zigzags over 400 metres of altitude across flower-filled pastures back into the National Park. Along the rushing Ova da Val dal Botsch, the trail winds past the Val dal Botsch rest area to the Stabelchod post bus stop (P8).