Pitoco’s Trail: nature and tradition on the tourism route along the Uruguay River valley.

Abstract

Pitoco’s Trail is located by  Uruguay River (in Chapecó SC), more specifically in Linha Alto Capinzal, about 28 km far from Chapecó City. The trail passes along five waterfalls, totalizing 5 km (on a round trip). Part of the path has been adapted to allow better access for visitors. In addition to the waterfalls there are small shrines with Catholic imagery. Access to the trail is possible going through the Figueira family property. They care for the conservation of the trail, and also spread cultural values from colonial “Cabocla” tradition, emphasizing the need to respect environment. The track was given that name due to the dog Pitoco, the family pet, who is well-known for accompanying visitors along the trail. As the Foz de Chapecó Dam, which will reach the surroundings of the trail is constructed, new relationships with tourism are envisioned. The construction of the dam has created expectations due to  the possibility of tourism expansion; however, among  traditional visitors of the Trail, either sporadic visitors or repeaters who practice adventure tourism, concern about the destruction of this “ecological paradise” has begun. This paper focuses the understanding of the issue by residents and visitors, being that the dam can be seen either as a threat for the trail, or either as a generator of new economic possibilities.