Split Stone in the Pinnis Valley

As romantic as this natural spectacle may appear, its history is just as spectacular. The enormous rock lying here is made of dolomite, which, like all dolomite ranges in the Stubai Valley, dates back to the so-called Brenner Mesozoic period. It bears witness to massive rock movements that occurred here in the Pinnis Valley, amidst the flanks of the Elfer and Serleskamm, several thousand years ago. Presumably, the rock broke apart upon impact and remained here in a split state.

North of the Pinnisalm are many other large dolomite blocks, which are also the result of these spectacular landslides. Most of them originate from a large eruption niche on the summit flank of the Elferspitze, which is heavily jagged and features numerous towers and pillars.

The Elfer Panoramabahn takes you from Neustift im Stubaital to the starting point at the mountain station. Follow the forest path that leads past the sundial. From there, a trail leads gently downhill to the Pinnisalm in the Pinnistal Valley. From there, it's a five-minute hike towards Neder to the "Pinnistal – Split Stone" natural site. To return to the starting point at the valley station of the Elferbahn cable car, follow the forest path down the valley, past the Issenangeralm, into the Neder district. Continue towards Neustift and then to the parking lot at the Elfer lifts.

Alternatively, the natural site can be reached directly via the Neder district or combined with the Elfer natural site.