The rock is composed of calcareous sinter, also known as travertine, which forms when CO2 escapes from spring water, causing calcium carbonate to precipitate.
The growth of the rock is biological; mosses and algae serve as the foundation for the lime deposits, making the formation 'alive' in a geological sense.
The spring feeding the formation has been flowing consistently since the last ice age, providing the necessary minerals for continuous growth.
During the 19th century, the rock was occasionally used for irrigation purposes, which temporarily altered the flow of the spring water.
It is recognized as a 'National Geotope' by the Academy for Geosciences and Natural Resources.
The Wachsender Felsen of Usterling is a rare geological formation known as a petrified waterfall, created by lime-rich spring water depositing calcium carbonate over centuries. This natural monument stands approximately 37 meters long and 5 meters high, continually growing as the mosses and algae facilitate the calcification process. The formation is classified as a protected natural monument due to its unique travertine structure. Located on a gentle hillside, the site is integrated into the local landscape near the Isar River valley. Visitors can view the formation along a designated footpath that traverses the base and the top of the ridge. It remains one of the most significant calcareous sinter deposits in Bavaria.
From the bottom of the slope looking up at the full length of the travertine ridge to capture the scale against the hillside.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes as the surrounding paths can be slippery or uneven.
Bring a magnifying glass to inspect the mossy surfaces where the calcification process is actively occurring.
Visit after a period of light rain to see the spring water flowing more clearly over the sinter deposits.
Do not attempt to touch or remove samples from the porous rock surface, as it is a protected natural monument.
Stay on the designated paths to prevent damaging the fragile, growing rock surface; do not climb on or chip pieces off the formation.
