Every summer, thousands of hikers walk through the Tyrolean forests in search of relaxation, tranquility and encounters with nature. But few visitors know what is no secret for the locals: the forest is even more impressive in winter. When the snow coat is on the trees and only a few hikers are out, the silence is absolute and the encounter with nature is even more intense.
Conventional winter boots are usually sufficient, as the trees block most of the snow and the ground inside the dense forests is almost snow-free. Streams are superficially frozen and murmur softly under a glittering layer of ice. The whole landscape becomes an unforgettable experience.
The winter forest has a special magic that many people rarely experience. While the snow-covered branches crack under the weight of the ice, sometimes all you hear is the crunching of the snow under your boots. The air is clear and fresh, every breath fills your lungs with pure, cold winter air. At first glance, the animal world seems to be silent, but on closer inspection you can see the tracks of deer and hares in the snow. A walk in the forest in winter is like a journey into a silent, almost magical world that invites you to pause and reflect.
A few safety tips: 1) Always tell someone where you are going and have a cell phone in case of an emergency. 2) Watch out for tree avalanches, which are masses of snow that suddenly detach from the branches and fall into the depths. 3) When there is a lot of snow, branches can break off and whole trees can fall. 4) Danger of slipping on icy forest floors. 5) Always carry a chocolate bar and, if possible, a thermos of hot tea. 6) Wear warm clothes.