Himmelbjerget
Denmark's iconic sky mountain: where democracy was born and panoramic lake views stretch endlessly.
Denmark's iconic 147-meter hill crowned with a 25-meter red brick tower, offering panoramic views across the Silkeborg Lake District. This historic landmark, acquired for the Danish people by King Christian VIII in 1840, stands as a symbol of Danish democracy and natural beauty. Accessible via numerous hiking trails ranging from gentle 30-minute walks to extended multi-day routes, Himmelbjerget attracts nature lovers, hikers, and history enthusiasts year-round. The summit features a restaurant, souvenir shop, and children's playground, while the surrounding forests hide additional viewpoints and peaceful lakeside paths.
A brief summary to Himmelbjerget
- Himmelbjergvej, Ry, 8680, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 8 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear layers and bring a windproof jacket even in summer—weather at the exposed summit can change rapidly, and wind conditions are often stronger than in the surrounding valleys.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the best light for photography, especially during summer months when the site attracts many visitors.
- Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated during hikes; while the trails are well-marked, the physical activity and exposure require consistent fluid intake, particularly in warmer months.
- Combine your visit with a paddle steamer journey on the Hjejlen for a complete Lake District experience—the historic boat has operated since 1861 and offers a unique perspective of the landscape.
- Stay on marked trails and practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve this natural and historical site for future generations; the fragile forest ecosystem depends on responsible visitor behavior.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus from Silkeborg
Regular bus services operate from Silkeborg town center directly to the Himmelbjerget area, with journey times of approximately 20–30 minutes depending on the specific route and stops. Buses are frequent during peak season (May–September) and less frequent in winter months. The service is operated by regional transport authorities and costs approximately 25–40 Danish kroner per journey. This is the most convenient option for visitors without private transport.
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Private Car via Highway 445
From Silkeborg, drive northeast on Highway 445 toward Ry. After approximately 15 kilometers, enter Ry town and follow signs toward Himmelbjerget and Highway 445 toward Rodelund. Cross the Gudenåen river and continue approximately 1 kilometer beyond the crossing until Munkedalsvej appears on the right—a dirt road serving as the main parking area. Journey time is approximately 20–25 minutes from Silkeborg. Parking is free. Roads are well-maintained and scenic, passing through rolling countryside and charming villages.
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Paddle Steamer Hjejlen from Silkeborg
The historic Hjejlen paddle steamer has operated since 1861, offering scenic boat journeys across the Silkeborg Lakes to Himmelbjerget. Sailing times vary seasonally, with more frequent departures during summer months (May–September). Journey duration is approximately 1.5–2 hours depending on route and stops. Tickets cost approximately 100–150 Danish kroner per person. This option combines transport with a memorable experience of the lake landscape and is particularly popular during warm weather.
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Train to Ry Station plus Hiking Connection
Regional trains connect Aarhus and other major towns to Ry Station, with journey times from Aarhus approximately 30–40 minutes. From Ry Station, follow the Himmelbjergruten hiking trail north toward Himmelbjerget, a distance of approximately 12 kilometers requiring 3–4 hours of walking. This option suits hikers seeking a longer immersive experience and costs approximately 50–100 Danish kroner for the train journey. The trail is well-marked and passes through beautiful lake district scenery.
Himmelbjerget location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Himmelbjerget
A Mountain Steeped in Danish History and Democracy
Himmelbjerget, meaning "Sky Mountain," stands at 147 meters above sea level as Denmark's second-highest point and one of the nation's most iconic natural landmarks. The hill's significance extends far beyond its modest elevation—it represents a pivotal moment in Danish history. King Christian VIII acquired the mountain for the Danish people in 1840, transforming it into a national gathering place. The crowning achievement came in 1849 when King Frederik VII granted Denmark its free constitution on June 5th. To commemorate this momentous occasion, a distinctive 25-meter-high red brick tower was erected atop the summit, serving as a permanent memorial to the birth of Danish democracy. Since then, constitutional celebrations have been held here regularly, making Himmelbjerget a living symbol of freedom and national identity.The Tower and Panoramic Vistas
The iconic tower at Himmelbjerget's summit offers visitors an unparalleled vantage point across the Silkeborg Lake District. From the top, the landscape unfolds in breathtaking fashion—the deep blue waters of Lake Julsø stretch below, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills that seem to extend endlessly. The view encompasses the entire Himmelbjerg Lakes system, a glacial landscape carved by meltwater during the last ice age. On clear days, the panorama reveals why landscape painters and poets were drawn to this location throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The tower itself has become a pilgrimage destination for those seeking both natural beauty and a tangible connection to Denmark's democratic heritage.Diverse Trails for Every Adventurer
The area surrounding Himmelbjerget offers an extensive network of hiking routes accommodating all fitness levels and time commitments. For those with limited time, a gentle 30-minute walk from the main entrance leads directly to the summit through lush forest. More ambitious hikers can tackle the full Himmelbjerget Trail, a 12.3-kilometer circuit requiring approximately three and a half hours, featuring 183 meters of elevation gain and descent. The legendary Himmelbjergruten stretches over 40 kilometers, connecting Himmelbjerget to both Ry and Silkeborg stations, allowing multi-day trekking experiences. The complete circuit around the Himmelbjerg Lakes spans approximately 50 kilometers. Well-marked wooden posts and yellow trail markers guide hikers throughout the network, ensuring navigation remains straightforward even for those unfamiliar with the area.Seasonal Character and Natural Beauty
Himmelbjerget transforms dramatically with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Late spring and summer, from May through September, provide ideal conditions with mild temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the panoramic views. Autumn brings a spectacular display of fall foliage, with forests bursting into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold despite cooler temperatures between 10°C and 15°C. Winter visits offer solitude and stark beauty, though wind and cold require appropriate preparation. The surrounding forests hide numerous viewpoints beyond the main summit, including ridgelines that pass smaller peaks such as Ulvehoved, Bryndumshøj, and Dronningestolen, each offering unique perspectives of the lake district.Visitor Facilities and Practical Amenities
The summit area provides comprehensive facilities for visitors. A restaurant and café serve food and refreshments, while a souvenir shop offers traditional Danish crafts and memorabilia. A spectacular children's playground makes the location family-friendly, and the asphalted road accommodates vehicles up to this point. The surrounding area includes multiple camping sites with drinking water and toilet facilities, though advance booking is required. The historic paddle steamer Hjejlen has been ferrying visitors to Himmelbjerget since 1861, offering an alternative to hiking and adding a nostalgic dimension to the experience. A solar-powered passenger ferry crosses the lakes midway along the Himmelbjergruten, providing sustainable transport options for multi-day hikers.Gateway to the Lake District's Treasures
Himmelbjerget serves as the natural centerpiece of the Silkeborg Lake District, a region celebrated for its pristine waters and tranquil forests. Lake Julsø, one of Denmark's largest and deepest lakes, sits directly below the summit. Slåensø, known as Denmark's cleanest lake, lies within easy hiking distance. The area's diverse trail system allows visitors to combine routes of varying lengths, creating personalized experiences from brief visits to extended wilderness expeditions. The proximity to both Ry and Silkeborg towns ensures convenient access via public transport or private vehicle, making Himmelbjerget accessible to travelers of all types.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
0.2 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
0.5 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Lovisehøj
7.9 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Water Tower
10.7 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
10.9 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Randershøj
11.3 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
11.3 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Silkeborg Rovfugleshow
11.3 km
Experience the thrill of birds of prey in action at Silkeborg Rovfugleshow, a captivating nature preserve offering breathtaking aerial displays and educational insights into the avian world.
Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo
11.5 km
A colossal wooden troll crafted from recycled materials—where art, nature, and Nordic folklore converge near Silkeborg's serene lake.
Store Troldhøj
12.4 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Landal Søhøjlandet
12.8 km
Escape to Landal Søhøjlandet in Denmark's Lake District: Family fun, water park thrills, outdoor adventures, and tranquil nature await in this scenic holiday paradise near Silkeborg.
Funder Ruin
13.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modern life at Stændertorvet, Roskilde's central square.
Yding Skovhøj
13.7 km
Discover Yding Skovhøj, one of Denmark's highest points, offering scenic hiking trails, ancient burial mounds, and panoramic views in the heart of Jutland's beautiful lake district.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
14.0 km
Discover Denmark's automotive history at Jutland's Automobile Museum in Gjern, showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles from the early 1900s to iconic post-war models, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's motoring heritage.
The Uncovered Bridge
14.7 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Himmelbjergtårnet
0.0 km
A 25‑metre red-brick memorial crowning Himmelbjerget, offering sweeping lake-and-forest panoramas and a powerful glimpse into Denmark’s democratic story.
Bestig Himmelbjerget
0.3 km
Follow a classic forest trail from lakeshore to the summit of Denmark’s fabled Sky Mountain, combining gentle ascent, big views and layers of national history.
H.C. Andersen bench
0.4 km
Discover Råbjerg Mile, Northern Europe’s largest migrating sand dune—a stunning, ever-shifting landscape near Skagen, perfect for exploration and breathtaking views.
Turbådene Himmelbjerget
0.5 km
Classic excursion boats carrying you from lakeside Ry through serene Søhøjlandet to the foot of Denmark’s famed Himmelbjerget for views, walks and fresh air.
Dynæs voldsted
1.8 km
Quiet medieval castle mounds and deep ditches on a wooded peninsula in the Silkeborg Lakes, where earthworks, water and forest hint at a vanished stronghold.
Gammelkol
2.3 km
A modest historic site folded into Silkeborg’s forests, where quiet paths, subtle landforms and shifting light reveal the long story of Denmark’s lake country.
FDF Outdoor Center Sletten
2.8 km
Denmark's premier outdoor recreation hub where free activities, mountain biking, and nature immersion meet modern comfort.
Himmelbjergegnens Tårnhøje Tårn
2.9 km
Historic hilltop tower above Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests, blending Denmark’s constitutional story with sweeping Jutland views and atmospheric woodland paths.
Maskenkol
3.8 km
A quiet stretch of Knudsø’s northern shore, Maskenkol offers gentle lakeside walking, open views and everyday Danish nature just beyond the town of Ry.
Høgdal
4.3 km
An 18th-century hilltop farm near Silkeborg, preserved as a living window into Danish rural life amid the soft landscapes of the Søhøjlandet lake district.
Ry havn
4.5 km
Quiet lakeside marina in Ry, offering relaxed waterfront life, boat trips into the Silkeborg Lakes and easy access to the gentle hills of Denmark’s lake district.
Kallehave bålhytte
4.6 km
A modest grill shelter tucked into the Kallehave woods near Gl. Rye, perfect for unhurried campfire cooking and a quiet break on forest hikes.
Kongestolen
4.8 km
A compact forest summit above Slåensø, Kongestolen pairs a short, steep climb with far‑reaching lake and woodland views in the heart of the Silkeborg hills.
Knudhule strand
6.2 km
Blue Flag lakeside escape near Ry, offering child‑friendly swimming, gentle views over Knudsø and a relaxed, low‑key setting in the hills of Søhøjlandet.
Labyrinthia
6.8 km
A countryside maze and puzzle park near Them, where 3D labyrinths, water mazes, dog-friendly challenges, and an indoor Puzzle Center turn getting lost into pure family fun.
Essential places to dine
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
0.3 km
Casual hilltop cafeteria at Himmelbjerget, serving classic Danish comfort food and ice cream with wide views over the Silkeborg lakes and surrounding forests.
Café Himmelsk
1.0 km
Homemade pastries and mountain views in Denmark's legendary lake district.
Lyng Dal Hotel og Restaurant
3.5 km
Intimate family-run hotel and seasonal restaurant in Ry, where garden-driven Danish cuisine, good wine and quiet countryside surroundings create a cosy Jutland escape.
Restaurant Aalekroen
3.7 km
Classic Danish kro-style restaurant on the shores of Julsø, pairing hearty traditional dishes and fried eel with sweeping lakeside views near Silkeborg.
Traktørstedet Ludvigslyst
3.9 km
Organic lakeside dining in a light-filled country villa above Lake Julsø, where local ingredients, house-baked bread and garden herbs define every seasonal plate.
Lakeside Ry - Restaurant
4.5 km
Intimate waterfront dining blending Nordic tradition with global innovation in Denmark's Lake District.
Brasseri Ry'tteriet
4.7 km
Intimate hotel brasserie in lakeside Ry, pairing French‑inspired comfort food, seasonal Danish ingredients and candlelit evening ambience in the heart of Søhøjlandet.
Ry Gastropub
4.7 km
Relaxed gastropub heart of Ry, serving comforting pub favourites, modern Danish flavours and easygoing drinks in a warm, social setting from lunch to late evening.
Hotel Ry
4.7 km
Contemporary comfort in Denmark's scenic heartland, where golf, hiking, and local gastronomy meet.
Restaurant Da Angelo
4.8 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Ry's charming lakeside town center.
Byens Kylling & Pizza Ry
4.8 km
Casual neighborhood pizza and chicken takeaway in Ry, serving hearty portions and familiar flavors for easy, budget‑friendly dinners after a day outdoors.
KobKun
4.8 km
Tiny Thai kitchen in the heart of Ry, serving fragrant curries and stir-fries in an intimate 13-seat space with a strong local takeaway following.
Umisushi
4.9 km
Neighbourhood sushi and takeaway in the lakeside town of Ry, serving fresh rolls and casual Japanese favourites in a relaxed, modern setting.
Restaurant Gastronomisk Institut
6.2 km
Seasonal Danish–French cooking, a serious wine cellar and wide lake views come together at this refined yet relaxed restaurant inside Knudhule Badehotel.
Knudhule Badehotel og Gastronomisk Institut
6.2 km
Award-winning lakeside hotel and fine dining destination in Denmark's scenic Søhøjlandet region.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ørneboden
0.2 km
Small hilltop souvenir shop on Himmelbjerget, pairing simple treats and mementos with big views over Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests above Ry.
Ugleboden
0.3 km
Casual ice cream and souvenir stall on Himmelbjerget, adding a sweet, no-frills pause to hikes and family outings in the wooded hills above Ry.
Bjerghytten
0.3 km
Bjerghytten: Savor Ice Cream Delights Amidst Himmelbjerget's Scenic Beauty
Bjerg-kiosken
0.3 km
Compact hilltop kiosk on Himmelbjerget serving ice cream, snacks and drinks to walkers and day-trippers at one of Denmark’s most iconic viewpoint areas near Ry.
Nordic Yarn - a woolly affair
2.0 km
A cosy, family-run Nordic wool shop on a Jutland farm near Ry, where Icelandic and Norwegian yarn fill the shelves and horses graze just outside.
Laven Antikvariat
3.0 km
Rare books, organic coffee, and genuine warmth in a charming village shop.
Made by Ella
3.4 km
Intimate goldsmith’s studio in Ry, where local jewelry artist Julie Ella Jappe handcrafts custom designs and contemporary pieces in a calm, small-town setting.
Dagli'Brugsen Gl. Rye
3.4 km
Community-owned supermarket where every purchase strengthens local bonds and supports sustainable living.
ByStenholt
3.6 km
A calm, contemporary womenswear boutique in Ry, blending Nordic style with small-town ease and serving as the local face of a modern Danish fashion webshop.
Rye Nørskov Gårdbutik
4.5 km
Historic farm shop in a mill building, selling wild game from estate forests with uncompromising quality and sustainability.
Hanne Linding Denmark / BUTIK No. 9 Ry
4.7 km
Intimate Ry boutique by textile artist Hanne Linding, showcasing feminine Danish knitwear, curated colors and timeless, everyday Scandinavian design.
Kandis
4.7 km
A welcoming Ry specialty shop where wine, sweets, gourmet delicacies and thoughtful gifts come together under one cosy, carefully curated roof.
Toft suits men & women
4.7 km
Distinctive menswear and womenswear for those who value timeless quality and personal style.
Hanghøj
4.7 km
A cosy Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Ry, offering curated women’s clothing, accessories and gifts with a relaxed, personal touch.
Red Cross Op Shop
4.8 km
Community-powered Danish thrift store in Ry, where low-cost second-hand finds help fund Red Cross humanitarian work and support more sustainable shopping.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Høkeren
4.7 km
Possibly Denmark’s smallest pub, Høkeren in Ry distills classic Danish tavern culture into 18 sociable square meters of wood, warmth and well‑poured drinks.
La Vinya
4.7 km
Chic wine bar and tapas lounge in Ry, offering curated wines, local bites, and cozy ambiance—perfect for unwinding after your Himmelbjerget adventure.
Ambolten Ry
4.9 km
Cosy neighborhood bar and social hub in the heart of Ry, mixing cold beers, live music and small-town charm in a laid-back, living-room atmosphere.
Dartklubben Potten
9.5 km
A classic Danish darts clubhouse in Låsby, where competitive heritage, cold drinks and small-town hygge come together around the oche.
Bakkens bodega
10.4 km
Unpretentious beer hall on Århusvej where locals, cold drafts and simple pub fare create a slice of everyday Silkeborg life from late morning to late evening.
Bodega Hjørnet
10.6 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Cafe' Paradis
10.6 km
A compact, old‑school bodega in central Silkeborg, serving cold beers, local atmosphere and late‑night conversation in an unpretentious, lived‑in bar setting.
The Admiral Pub
10.8 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
Café Kling Klang
10.8 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Sportspubben Målet
10.9 km
A cozy, no-frills sports pub in central Silkeborg, where big screens, cold beer and local chatter turn every match day into a shared living room.
Roxy Malt
11.0 km
Irish-inspired Silkeborg pub with live music, quizzes, speciality beers and a cosy courtyard, blending retro charm with late-night energy in the town centre.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
11.0 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
11.0 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
11.0 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
Rabalder Bar
11.0 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
B'sharp - Silkeborg Rhythm Og Blues Association
10.9 km
Volunteer-run blues stronghold in central Silkeborg, where intimate weekend concerts, affordable drinks and close-up performances keep rhythm & roots music alive.
Team Paderborner
16.9 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Scandic Opus Horsens
27.2 km
A contemporary Scandinavian hotel in Horsens with spa, dining, and panoramic city-to-nature views—an elegant gateway to both urban and outdoor experiences.
Sölibat Natklub
28.7 km
Late-night, no-frills clubbing in central Horsens, where loud music, simple drinks and a compact dance floor create an unapologetically local party vibe.
Oskar hossman
29.1 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub in central Horsens, where pulsing beats, colourful lights and a sociable crowd define the city’s after-hours heartbeat.
PDD
29.1 km
Compact, no-frills nightclub on Lindvigsvej in Horsens, offering late-night dancing, simple drinks and an intimate, local-party atmosphere on weekends.
Klodshans Horsens ApS
29.3 km
Discover live music, local art, and Danish hygge at Klodshans Horsens—a cozy harbor-side bar at the heart of the city's nightlife and cultural scene.
Luksusmassage Århus
31.3 km
Experience Aarhus's dynamic nightlife at Luksusmassage, where music and energy blend for an unforgettable evening.
KLUB22
31.6 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at KLUB22 in Aarhus, where electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere await.
Horsens New Style Dance Club
31.7 km
Horsens' premier line dancing venue where beginners and advanced dancers unite in movement and community.
Bastian Bar & Nightclub, Odder - Nightclub
32.3 km
Odder's central nightlife destination for weekend entertainment and social gathering
V58
32.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at V58 in Aarhus, where live music meets an energetic atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
equalclub
32.5 km
Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.
Flintstone Pub
32.7 km
Flintstone Pub in Aarhus blends retro décor, affordable drinks, and live music, offering a lively gathering place for locals and visitors in the city’s central quarter.
Hornsleth Bar Aarhus
32.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Hornsleth Bar, where innovative cocktails meet an energetic atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Scenic Backdrops
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
