Max Henius Hytten – Bålhytten i Rebild Bakker
Octagonal fire shelter honoring Danish-American heritage in Rebild's protected hills.
An octagonal fire shelter nestled in the rolling heather hills of Rebild National Park, North Jutland. Named after Max Henius, founder of the Rebild Society, this distinctive tipi-shaped structure stands 8.5 meters high and accommodates up to 48 people. Featuring tables, benches, and two grills, it serves as a communal gathering point for hikers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic Danish outdoor tradition. Open year-round, free to use, with no reservations required.
A brief summary to Bålhytten i Rebild Bakker
- Skørping, 9520, DK
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring your own firewood and matches; supplies are not provided. Collect deadwood from the forest floor if permitted, or purchase bundles from nearby shops before arriving.
- Arrive early on weekends and Danish holidays, as the shelter is popular for group gatherings and can reach capacity during peak times.
- Combine your visit with a hike to nearby Troldeskov (Troll Forest) or the Skovtårnet (Forest Tower) for panoramic views across the heather hills.
- Wear sturdy footwear; forest paths can be muddy or uneven, especially after rain. The terrain is generally accessible but requires care on steeper sections.
- Use restroom facilities at Rebildporten visitor center before or after your visit, as none are available at the hytten itself.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Car from Skørping town center
Drive approximately 8 kilometers north toward Rebild Bakker. Follow signs to Rebildporten visitor center and the main parking area. Park at the large lot near Rebildporten. From the parking area, walk down the forest path for approximately 400 meters to reach the hytten. Journey time from Skørping: 12–15 minutes. Parking is free. Note: Motor vehicles are not permitted on forest trails leading to the hytten.
-
Public transport from Aalborg
Take a regional bus service from Aalborg toward Skørping or Rebild (approximately 45–60 minutes depending on service). Alight at Rebild Bakker or Rebildporten stop. From the bus stop, walk to the main visitor center parking area and proceed on foot via forest paths to the hytten (approximately 400 meters, 8–10 minutes). Bus services operate daily but with reduced frequency on Sundays and holidays; check local timetables in advance.
-
Bicycle from Rebild town
Cycle approximately 5 kilometers from Rebild town center following local cycle routes toward Rebild Bakker. Park your bicycle at the main parking area near Rebildporten visitor center. Complete the final 400 meters on foot via forest paths. Journey time: 15–20 minutes depending on fitness and terrain. Cycle routes in the area are generally well-marked and suitable for families.
-
Walking from Rebildporten visitor center
If you are already at Rebildporten visitor center, the hytten is accessible via a pleasant forest walk of approximately 400 meters downhill. The path is clearly marked and takes 8–10 minutes. The route descends forest steps and winds through a sheltered grove. Suitable for most fitness levels, though the terrain can be uneven and muddy after rain.
Bålhytten i Rebild Bakker location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bålhytten i Rebild Bakker
A Monument to Danish-American Heritage
Max Henius Hytten bears the name of a visionary entrepreneur who left Denmark at age 22 to build a career in Chicago's brewing industry. Henius went on to found the Rebild Society, an organization dedicated to celebrating Danish-American friendship. In 1912, at the first Rebild Festival, he presented the deed for Rebild National Park to King Christian X—a gift that transformed these rolling hills into a protected sanctuary. The fire shelter, completed in 2018, stands as a living tribute to his legacy and the enduring bonds between Denmark and America.Distinctive Architecture in a Protected Landscape
The hytten's most striking feature is its octagonal tipi-inspired design, rising 8.5 meters above the forest floor. Clad in robinia shingles, the structure blends seamlessly with its surroundings while providing exceptional wind protection—a crucial consideration in these exposed hills. The building measures approximately 60 square meters and was constructed by local builder Søbro Byg from Skørping. Its placement within a sheltered grove demonstrates careful site selection, positioning the shelter to maximize comfort while minimizing visual impact on the protected landscape.Gathering Space for All Seasons
Inside the hytten, six tables and twelve benches provide seating for approximately 48 people, making it ideal for family gatherings, school groups, and community events. Two grills stand ready for cooking, though visitors must bring their own firewood. Outside, five additional table-bench sets extend the gathering area into the surrounding forest. The shelter welcomes everyone—whether you arrive to kindle a fire, share a meal, or simply rest during a woodland walk. No reservations are accepted; the hytten operates on a first-come, first-served basis, embodying the Danish principle that nature's spaces belong to all.Gateway to Rebild's Natural Wonders
Located within Rebild National Park, the hytten serves as a natural hub for exploring the surrounding landscape. The site sits approximately 400 meters from the main parking area at Rebildporten visitor center, accessible via a short walk down forest paths. From here, visitors can venture into the heather-clad hills, discover the nearby Troldeskov (Troll Forest), or climb the Skovtårnet (Forest Tower) just 500 meters away. The shelter's position makes it an ideal base for half-day or full-day excursions into one of Denmark's most distinctive natural areas.Practical Considerations for Visitors
The hytten operates on the principle of shared responsibility. Visitors are expected to follow forest law: extinguish fires completely, remove all waste, and leave the shelter in the same condition they wish to find it. No water or toilet facilities exist at the hytten itself; these amenities are available at the nearby Rebildporten visitor center. The shelter remains open year-round and free of charge, making it accessible to everyone regardless of season or budget. Mobile reception is generally available in the area, though signal strength may vary depending on your network provider.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel BramslevGaard
19.2 km
Experience tranquility and history at Hotel BramslevGaard, nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker by Mariager Fjord, offering gourmet dining, spa retreats, and easy access to Northern Jutland's natural wonders.
Restaurant BramslevGaard
19.2 km
Experience Danish history and gastronomy at BramslevGaard, a charming manor house nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker near Hobro, offering stunning views and French-inspired cuisine.
Mariager Fjord
19.9 km
Denmark's longest fjord winds through pristine Jutland landscapes, offering unspoilt nature, charming villages, and exceptional outdoor adventures.
Hobro Lystbådehavn
20.8 km
Denmark's premier fjord marina with historic charm and modern comfort.
Mariager Lystbådehavn
21.5 km
Denmark's most beautiful fjord meets a thriving sailing community in this welcoming maritime harbor.
Hotel Postgaarden Mariager
21.8 km
Experience historic Danish charm and modern comfort at Hotel Postgaarden Mariager, nestled in the heart of the 'City of Roses' with easy access to Mariager Fjord's natural beauty.
Mariager Kirke
22.0 km
A lofty Bridgettine abbey church turned parish landmark, where Gothic stone, noble tombs and organ music tell Mariager’s story above the fjord.
Mariager Church
22.0 km
A towering former abbey church above Mariager Fjord, where Gothic brickwork, noble tombs and a distinctive Aubertin organ keep centuries of faith and history alive.
Alstrup krat
22.1 km
Explore Alstrup Krat near Mariager: Hike through ancient forests, discover Bronze Age burial mounds, and enjoy stunning views of Mariager Fjord. A blend of history and nature awaits.
Rosenhaven
22.2 km
Discover Rosenhaven in Mariager, Denmark: a serene city park with over 400 rose species, blending history and beauty for a tranquil escape in the 'City of Roses'.
Munkholmanlægget
22.2 km
Discover Munkholmanlægget in Mariager: A historic park with tranquil nature, a charming lake, and a touch of whimsy, perfect for a peaceful escape and exploration.
Kings Hill | Megalithic tomb
22.2 km
Explore the rich tapestry of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's premier design museum.
Ivan Evigvår trold
22.2 km
Explore Ivan Evigvår Trold, a magical tourist attraction in Mariager, Denmark, where folklore meets artistry in a stunning natural setting.
Lille Vildmose
22.9 km
Discover Denmark's largest protected area, Lille Vildmose, a haven for wildlife and a unique raised bog ecosystem, offering immersive nature experiences and conservation insights.
Fyrkat Viking Museum
23.2 km
Explore the rich Viking heritage at Fyrkat Viking Museum in Hobro, Denmark, featuring interactive exhibits and authentic Viking reconstructions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kimbrerstenen i Rebild Bakker
0.1 km
A carved Cimbrian bull in the heather-clad hills of Rebild Bakker, Kimbrerstenen links quiet North Jutland scenery with the far-reaching journeys of an ancient tribe.
Rebild National Park
0.1 km
Denmark's historic heathland where glacial hills meet Danish-American heritage and Europe's finest certified hiking trails.
VINGES VANDRING
0.2 km
Experience Denmark’s most iconic heathland vistas and heritage on the well-marked Kvalitetssti Rebild hiking trail in the legendary Rebild National Park.
RebildPorten
0.2 km
Contemporary welcome center and terrace at the gateway to Rebild Hills and Rold Forest, where maps, stories and local insight prepare you for the landscape ahead.
Museum Rebild
0.2 km
Where Danish emigration stories meet transatlantic friendship in historic northern Jutland hills.
Kvalitetssti Rebild
0.2 km
A certified premium hiking loop through Rebild Bakker’s purple heaths, deep springs and ancient forest, showcasing some of Denmark’s most dramatic lowland terrain.
Rebild Bakker Information
0.2 km
Compact visitor hub with restrooms and trail information at the edge of Rebild Bakker, linking Skørping’s everyday life to Denmark’s heather-clad national park.
Danhostel Rebild
0.3 km
Welcoming hostel near Denmark's scenic Rebild Bakker hills with modern rooms, friendly staff, and included breakfast.
Comwell Rebild Bakker
0.5 km
Luxury resort immersed in Denmark's most visited national park, blending Nordic wellness with historic landscape.
Lars Kjærs Hus
0.9 km
Tiny forest cottage, big folk tale: step into the poacher Lars Kjær’s world and his fortune-telling wife’s home in the hills of Rebild Bakker.
Skovtårnet
0.9 km
Modest in height but rich in views, Skovtårnet lifts you above Rold Skov’s twisted pines for wide horizons over Rebild’s hills and valleys in every season.
Troldeskoven
1.1 km
A compact corner of Rold Skov where centuries‑old beech trees twist into troll-like sculptures, blending folklore, forest history and quietly enchanting woodland atmosphere.
Ravnkilde
1.2 km
A powerful clear-water spring hidden in the wooded folds of Rebild Bakker, where rare wetland plants, cool streams and seasonal sea trout share a tranquil valley.
Hvasstræet
1.2 km
A modest memorial tree in the depths of Rold Skov, Hvasstræet quietly honours forester Jens Hvass amid rustling conifers and tranquil North Jutland woodland.
Røverknolden
1.2 km
Artistic forest playground where imagination meets adventure in Denmark's largest woodland.
Essential places to dine
Westernhuset
0.1 km
Skørping's premier venue for group celebrations and traditional Danish dining
Top Karens Hus
0.1 km
Historic countryside traktørsted at the gateway to Rebild Bakker, serving traditional Danish food, coffee and cake in intimate low‑ceilinged rooms and garden.
Rebildhus
0.2 km
Hearty Danish lunch and countryside charm on the edge of Rebild Bakker’s rolling hills, a relaxed restaurant base for walks, family outings and day trips.
Bb Rold
0.2 km
A homely little café and B&B-style retreat in a quiet Skørping street, offering simple comforts and easy access to the forests and hills of Rold Skov.
Røverstuen
0.3 km
Woodland restaurant at Rebild’s edge, where Danish comfort cooking, rustic interiors and forest legends combine into a relaxed, story-rich meal stop in Skørping.
Papas Pizza Og Kebab House V/Serdar Keskin
3.0 km
Casual neighborhood pizzeria and kebab house in central Skørping, serving generous Danish-style pizzas, kebabs and grill favorites at moderate prices all week.
Mosskovpavillonen
3.8 km
Historic forest pavilion serving French-Danish cuisine beside a pristine lake in North Jutland's natural heart.
Restaurant Hul19
5.0 km
Laid-back Scandinavian clubhouse dining with sweeping views over Rold Skov Golfklub’s closing hole and the forested landscape beyond in Skørping.
Ice Sushi
6.5 km
Straightforward sushi takeaway on Hobrovej in Støvring, serving practical sharing boxes and casual eat-in options for easy weeknight dinners and road-trip stops.
Bella Italia Støvring
6.8 km
Cozy pizza and steakhouse on Støvring’s main street, serving generous Italian-inspired comfort food and easygoing Danish hospitality for locals and road‑trippers alike.
MesterBageren Støvring
6.8 km
Lively neighborhood bakery-café in central Støvring, serving classic Danish breads, pastries and celebration cakes from early morning until late afternoon.
MADUMSØHUS ISBAR
7.4 km
Homely countryside ice cream stop by Madum Lake, where classic Danish soft ice meets quiet Jutland landscapes and relaxed summer-evening vibes.
Burger King
10.2 km
Flame-grilled burgers and quick meals in rural Jutland's convenient fast-food hub.
Motorvejsgrillen
10.4 km
Old-school Danish roadside grill off the Nørager motorway, serving hearty burgers, fries and classic fast food to drivers, locals and truckers all week.
Sønderup Landkøkken v/Dorthe Nørhave Johansen
11.5 km
Rural North Jutland kitchen turning classic Danish farm recipes into hearty daily meals and generous buffets for locals, pensioners and countryside celebrations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Roldhøj Lopper og Luksus
0.2 km
A cosy vintage barn near Rebild Bakker packed with Danish design, retro furniture and quirky treasures for slow, sustainable treasure hunting in Skørping.
Rebild Bakker (Rebildvej / Rebild)
0.4 km
Heather-clad hills, glacial gorges, and cross-Atlantic heritage unite in Rebild Bakker, Denmark’s iconic national park and cultural meeting ground.
Vinhandel La BourGogne
1.4 km
Discover Vinhandel La BourGogne in Skørping: A curated selection of fine wines and expert guidance await wine enthusiasts.
Holy Moses Wineshop
2.2 km
Characterful neighbourhood wine shop in Skørping, pouring American bottles, local vintages and sustainable delights from morning to evening every day.
Lenas Blomster
2.9 km
Friendly neighbourhood florist and gift boutique in the heart of Skørping, blending seasonal blooms, curated presents and local small-town charm.
Bogby 9520
2.9 km
Volunteer‑run book town in Skørping, where thousands of second‑hand volumes and a cosy, local atmosphere turn browsing into a slow‑travel highlight.
REMA 1000
3.0 km
No‑frills Danish discount supermarket in Skørping, ideal for stocking up on groceries, snacks and everyday essentials before exploring Rebild Bakker and Rold Skov.
Maggies Gemakker
3.0 km
A cosy Skørping fashion boutique offering timeless, mix-and-match women’s clothing and personal styling advice focused on longevity rather than fast trends.
FKN Genbrug / DCA Op Shop
3.0 km
Cozy volunteer-run charity thrift shop in central Skørping, where slow treasure-hunting, reuse and global solidarity all meet on one compact shop floor.
Folkekirkens Nødhjælp Genbrug
3.0 km
Small-town Danish charity shop where second-hand fashion, homeware and local community spirit come together to support global humanitarian work.
Meny
3.0 km
Modern Danish supermarket in Skørping Centret with fresh counters, local specialties and a strong wine selection – a practical one‑stop shop for travelers.
Garndamen
3.1 km
Intimate yarn shop in the heart of Skørping, brimming with colourful fibres, patterns and friendly expertise for knitters and crocheters of every level.
Kirkens Korshær Genbrug
3.1 km
Small-town Danish thrift shop where every second-hand bargain helps fund social work and offers a glimpse into everyday community life in Skørping.
Rold Forest Bike Shop
3.2 km
Denmark's premier mountain bike hub in the heart of Rold Forest's 50-kilometer trail network.
Louise Nørgaard
3.3 km
A cosy holistic beauty clinic and natural lifestyle boutique in small-town Skørping, blending personalised treatments, clean products and a calm, slow-paced atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Skørping Bodega
2.9 km
Down-to-earth local bodega in central Skørping, serving cold beers, simple drinks and small-town atmosphere from midday until late on weekends.
Happy Friday
5.5 km
Cozy Støvring cocktail bar with crafted drinks, warm lighting and a Friday-night feeling any day of the week.
City Bar Støvring
6.6 km
Unpretentious local bar in Støvring’s City Centret, offering simple drinks, friendly chat and a down-to-earth glimpse of everyday Danish small-town life.
Støvring Mc
6.8 km
Laid‑back neighborhood bar in small‑town Støvring, with a subtle motorbike vibe, simple drinks and a down‑to‑earth atmosphere on Viborgvej.
Loke's Ølstue
8.7 km
Suldrup’s no-frills bodega bar, where cold beer, local stories and small-town Danish pub culture come together in a cozy, lived-in corner on Aarestrupvej.
Carsten fenger
10.3 km
A low-key rural bar near Skørping where locals gather, travelers are welcomed, and simple drinks fuel long conversations in a relaxed countryside setting.
Rottehullet / Bodega
11.0 km
Laid‑back Danish bodega in quiet Arden, where cold beer, worn wood and easy conversation create a timeless neighborhood hangout.
Center Pubben ApS
13.4 km
Cozy neighborhood pub in Terndrup Center, pouring cold beer, simple drinks and warm small-town atmosphere in a no-nonsense Danish bar setting.
Skotten
18.7 km
Aalborg's casual neighborhood bar for relaxed socializing and unwinding with friends
Club 85@Nibe Festival
20.8 km
Small-town bar turned festival hotspot, Club 85 is where Nibe’s intimate music nights spill over into easygoing drinks, local charm and late-night singalongs.
Den Graa Kok Vinkælderen
20.9 km
Refined wine bar and cellar in North Jutland offering curated selections and elegant dining.
Jagtstuen
21.0 km
Traditional Danish bodega-style bar in central Hadsund, known for its cozy atmosphere and pioneering dementia-friendly approach to everyday social life.
Kælderen
21.0 km
Intimate basement bar at the heart of Hadsund's town square, open for evening gatherings Thursday through Sunday.
Jernkroen
21.2 km
Cozy harbor-side kro-bar in the heart of Nibe, where inexpensive drinks, a friendly courtyard and true small-town atmosphere invite you to linger.
ar
21.4 km
Unpretentious waterfront bar on Ved Stranden in Hadsund, where simple drinks, fjord views and small-town atmosphere create an easygoing evening stop.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Scenic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
