Geotouristic tour of the trail to Pedra do Sino (PARNASO, RJ, Brazil)

Abstract

In spite of the abundance of approaches related to geodiversity and their proximity to conservation units – especially national parks, in Brazil – various debates emerge to discuss how such knowledge enables the promotion of tourist and didactic activities in favor of public awareness about natural heritage. In this context, this research is a way to contribute to the dissemination and management of geodiversity, by increasing the sense of belonging and the knowledge of society in relation to the environment. From an integrated perspective of nature quite evident in trails, among the attractions of the Serra dos Órgãos National Park (PARNASO), points of interest of the geodiversity of the trail to Pedra do Sino were raised, as well as a geotouristic and didactic from the environmental interpretation. It disseminates the itinerary, all points were inserted in the Wikiloc® navigation application, associated to photographs and descriptions of each point raised along the trail, aiming for greater reach and public engagement above all. In addition, qualification and quantitative assessment of the Pedra do Sino geosite was carried out, based on the Geosite Registration and Quantification System and Geodiversity Sites of the Geological Service of Brazil. From the results generated and the applied methodology, the knowledge of PARNASO's geodiversity through its trails presented an expressive potential for scientific dissemination, supported by proposals for environmental interpretation that accompany systemic relations between society and nature, and which proposes to know at all times, publicize and conserve natural heritage.