Canyoning in the Starzlachklamm gorge with fossils
Did you know that you can find fossils?
Canyoning Starzlachkamm Fossils? Canyoning is synonymous with adrenaline, water and the power of nature - but did you know that the Starzlachklamm gorge near Sonthofen not only offers spectacular abseils and slides, but also ancient traces of past geological eras? Anyone who undertakes a canyoning tour here with purelements not only experiences a sporting adventure, but also follows in the footsteps of marine creatures that populated the present-day Alpine region around 30 million years ago.
In this article you will find out why the Starzlachklamm gorge is a geological gem, which fossils can be found there and how you can discover fossils and perhaps even a piece of the earth's history under your feet while canyoning.
The Starzlach Gorge: natural spectacle and geotope
The Starzlachklamm gorge near Sonthofen in the Allgäu is a real natural monument. The wild Starzlach river has cut deep into the rock here over millions of years, forming an impressive gorge. High walls, narrow gorges, thundering waterfalls - all the perfect backdrop for an action-packed canyoning tour.
However, the Starzlachklamm gorge is not only a paradise for adventurers, but also a recognized geotope (geotope no. 780R005) of great scientific importance. The layers of rock through which the water flows date back to the Oligocene period and provide a unique insight into the geological history of the region. The so-called Nummulite limestone is particularly striking.
Nummulite limestone and fossils in the Starzlach Gorge:
Insight into a primeval tropical sea
Nummulitic limestone is a light-colored, massive sedimentary rock consisting mainly of fossil shells of so-called nummulites. These belong to the group of foraminifera - single-celled organisms with a complex, often lenticular calcareous shell. They lived in the shallow sea around 30 million years ago, when the area of today's Alps was still part of a tropical shelf sea.
Nummulites form the main mass of this special limestone. In the Starzlachklamm gorge, with a bit of luck you can recognize their characteristic, spirally twisted shell shapes directly in the rock. They are reminiscent of coins or lentils and are often several centimetres in size - ideal for discovering on a tour (but please do not remove them, nature conservation comes first!).
The fossils of the Starzlach Gorge
In addition to the nummulites, you will also find other fossils in the rock, including foraminifera of the genus Assilina, sponges and rare remains of other marine animals. However, one sensational find is particularly famous: the fossil crab species Xanthopsis sonthofenensis, which was named after the region and whose type specimen was discovered in the Starzlach Gorge.
This fossil crab is a prime example of the astonishing preservation of marine life forms in the Nummulite limestones. It shows how rich and complex the ecological system of the sea was at that time. The gorge is therefore of great importance to geologists and palaeontologists.
Fossils you can touch: Nummulites in the limestone of the Starzlach Gorge
Between fossils and rock - canyoning in the Nummulite limestone of the Starzlach Gorge
Starzlach Gorge up close: gorges, fossils & tectonic adventures
The Starzlachklamm gorge lies in the area of the so-called Grünten-Decke, a geological unit of the Helveticum. The rock layers are tectonically highly dissected and inclined by 35 degrees in places. The dramatic Schleierfall, one of the most spectacular parts of the gorge, cuts through these layers and reveals them like something out of a textbook.
This makes the gorge not only scenically impressive, but also geologically instructive. Every bend, every ledge, every rock band tells its own story - from sedimentation in the primeval sea, to mountain formation through plate tectonics, to the erosive power of the Starzlach today.
Canyoning meets fossil earth history
When you go canyoning with purelements through the Starzlachklamm gorge, you will not only experience the thrill of abseiling, sliding and jumping. You also become part of an ancient natural history. The path through the gorge takes you over and through rocks that formed the seabed of a tropical primeval sea millions of years ago. You might even spot the fine spiral of a nummulite or the outline of a fossil crab on a wet ledge.
Our guides are not only safety professionals, but are also familiar with the geology of the region. They will be happy to show you the geological highlights and explain what you can look out for. This will turn your tour into a real experience for body and mind.
Fossils while canyoning? What awaits you in the Starzlach Gorge
A canyoning tour with pure elements in the Starzlachklamm gorge lasts around 3 to 4 hours and takes you through spectacular gorges, water pools and slides. Everything takes place under the guidance of experienced, certified guides.
You don't need any previous experience, just a normal level of fitness, the ability to swim and a desire for adventure. We provide you with all the equipment you need (wetsuit, helmet, harness, special canyoning shoes, etc.). And you will also experience one of the most exciting geospots in the Allgäu.
Why should you book your tour now?
The Starzlachklamm gorge is one of the most beautiful canyoning destinations in the Allgäu. Its combination of scenic wildness, sporting challenge and geological depth is unique. The tour with purelements is suitable for both beginners and advanced canyoners looking for an exciting mix of action and nature.
Experience how precise safety, expert guidance and a dash of scientific curiosity combine to create an unforgettable outdoor experience. Immerse yourself in the world of fossils, feel the power of water - and discover the Starzlachklamm gorge in a whole new way.
📍 Tip:
Start the day early and choose the morning tour to avoid the crowds - and have your camera ready! In the soft morning light, not only the wild rock formations and waterfalls of the Starzlachklamm gorge come into their own, but also the fine structures of the nummulite fossils in the limestone. A real highlight for nature and geology fans!
Nummulite limestone in focus - fossils right on the way of your canyoning tour through the Starzlach Gorge
30 million years in your hands - your canyoning fossil experience full of nature, thrills and history
Whether you are looking for action, a nature experience or a touch of geological history - a canyoning tour with pure elements in the Starzlachklamm gorge offers you all of this in a unique combination. Discover fossils such as the spiral Nummulites, marvel at layers of rock millions of years old and experience the power of water up close. Accompanied by experienced guides and perfectly equipped, your tour will be safe, exciting and unforgettable.
Now is the perfect time to book your personal canyoning adventure:
Don't wait any longer - discover the Starzlach Gorge and become part of a story that began 30 million years ago.
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👉 Discover canyoning in the Starzlachklamm gorge
📍 Book a tour or have questions? We are here for you:
✔️ Directly to the request: www.purelements.de
📧 E-mail: info@purelements.de
📞 Phone: +49 8321 780 4 790
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Report on canyoning in the Starzlachklamm gorge with fossils
