A living classroom: learn about bears, wolfs and lynxes on the Mašun trail

Forests are amazing ecosystems that support life on Earth. They are a home to numerous animal and plant species, they provide breathing air, drinkable water, protection from storms, materials for housing and everyday use, a refuge during hot summer days, and much more. 

Amongst many important forest functions, we should also appreciate the social ones. While most of us do not live in forest anymore, we surely love coming back to our original home and spend some time surrounded by trees. One such amazing excuse to spend time in forest is located in Mašun, Slovenia.

Here, forest serves as an immersive educational environment, offering a dynamic platform for learning about the natural world. Beyond textbooks and classrooms, the Mašun forest becomes a living lesson in ecology, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship where participants gain insights into the vital roles each animal plays in maintaining ecological balance. Understanding the social structures of bear families, the cooperative nature of wolf packs, and the elusive habits of lynxes fosters an appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living beings within the forest ecosystem.

In Mašun you can explore the wonderfully modern and interactive forest house (must be booked in advance) and take part in the nearly 2 kilometers round educational trail.

This educational trail, some 1,8 kilometres long, is made up of 7 "stations" with as many information panels (in Slovenian, Croatian and English language) where you learn about all the characteristics of this natural habitat: the flora and fauna, focusing in particular on bears, wolves and lynxes, but not only. It is an almost flat route, very simple and suitable for everyone, including children. Visiting this trail during the winter is a magical experience, and if you are lucky, you might be able to find a fresh imprint of a bear claw in the snow!