Lauterbrunnen Valley l Awesome Gorge

Lauterbrunnen Valley Facts

First of all, the term of Lauterbrunnen Valley names one of the truly most visually stunning natural formations on earth. Firstly, it represents a truly magnificent cleft valley situated in an area of the world itself already well known for its surpassing natural splendor.
Secondly, the magnificent site also remains famous for more than just the extent of its beauty. That’s because this simultaneously gorgeous yet rugged-looking valley also has a quite surprising shape to it. In point of fact, it developed a rough U-shape that runs south-southwest.
Thirdly, yet more natural marvels wait to greet the eye of its many visitors. This holds true due to the fact that numerous streams, both large and small, create a wonderland. Formed by melting glaciers, these create a total of 72 incredible waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Fourth, this location holds one more claim to fame. That’s because the incredible site also has an ancient history. The breathtaking location was first mentioned in literature as early as the year 1240. Finally, the translation of original text gives it a name which translates as clear spring.

Lauterbrunnen Valley Physical Description

Perhaps most notably, the absolutely magnificent site known as Lauterbruunen Valley proves the concept that size bears no relation to beauty. That’s because the location ranks as a moderate-sized valley. To be more precise, the location measures approximately 5 mi (8 km) in length. In addition, while its width varies, it rarely exceeds 0.62 mi (1 km) in width.

However, this awesome work of Nature does stand out from related features in its general part of the world in one physical measurement. That’s due to the impressive fact that the valley has a depth that exceeds more than 1,000 ft (305 m) over the majority of its total length. That measurement makes it one of the deepest to be found in the region in which it formed.

But, the distinctiveness of the astounding Lauterbrunnen Valley does not simply end there. That fact occurs due to a rare combination of its own actual depth, and its surrounding features. This occurs because its almost perfectly vertical walls remain closely surrounded by high mountains. Combined with the depth of the canyon, it makes for a striking image.

Lauterbrunnen Valley Location, Geology, and Ecology

The mind-blowing wonder that we name Lauterbrunnen Valley formed long ago in an already stunning region. That’s because the magnificent canyon formed in what now constitutes the Swiss Alps. Even more precisely, it formed near what is currently the city of Bern, Switzerland, in Europe.

In addition, the incredible geology of the visually remarkable valley includes numerous marvelous waterfalls. Further, perhaps the best known of these amazing cascades bears the name of Staubback Falls. The Falls drop nearly 900 ft (270 m) in total and form one of the highest unbroken waterfalls in Europe.

Also, roughly 16% of the valley still remains covered by a glacier. This only serves to further add to its amazing splendor. Additionally, the water forming the waterfalls comes from the massive amounts of melting snow from the mountains. As a result of this, the water remains famous for its purity.

Furthermore, stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley also comprises a total area of about 63.5 sq mi (164.5 sq km). Of this, a total of 51% still either has a covering of forest or gets used for agriculture. As a result, this wonderful location plays an important role in the area in which it formed, even today.