Himmelev Skov
A young, rolling forest of ponds, meadows and trails where Roskilde’s northern suburbs fade into an evolving landscape of Danish nature and quiet everyday escapes.
Himmelev Skov is a young state forest and nature preserve on the northern edge of Roskilde, where former gravel pits have been transformed into rolling woodland, meadows, wetlands and small lakes. Criss-crossed by walking, cycling and riding trails, it offers an easy escape into nature with open views, birdlife, and tranquil corners for picnics and quiet reflection, yet remains close to suburban Himmelev and the wider Roskilde area.
A brief summary to Himmelev skov
- Herregårdsvej, Roskilde, 4000, DK
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring sturdy walking shoes: surfaces range from firm gravel tracks to softer, occasionally muddy paths around ponds and low-lying areas after rain.
- Plan for limited facilities inside the forest; pack water and snacks, and use restrooms in nearby residential or sports areas before you set out.
- If you are sensitive to weather, aim for calm, dry days; the open, hilly terrain can feel exposed in strong wind or heavy rain.
- Cyclists and riders share some routes with walkers: keep to marked tracks, control speed on descents and give clear space to horses when passing.
- Visit in early morning or late evening for the most birdsong and a quieter atmosphere, especially near the ponds and wetter parts of the forest.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and local bus from Copenhagen or central Roskilde
Take a regional train to Roskilde Station, which runs from Copenhagen Central roughly every 10–20 minutes and takes about 25–30 minutes. From Roskilde, board a local bus towards the Himmelev residential districts; services typically run at least twice an hour on weekdays and slightly less often on evenings and weekends. The ride to stops near Herregårdsvej takes around 10–15 minutes, and a standard single ticket within the Greater Copenhagen fare system usually costs the equivalent of 30–50 DKK, depending on zones. From the nearest stop, expect a short urban walk on pavements and gentle gradients into the forest.
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Bicycle from Roskilde city centre
Cycling from central Roskilde to Himmelev Skov is a practical and scenic option if you are comfortable in light urban traffic. The route from the cathedral and main shopping streets to the forest edge typically takes 15–25 minutes at an easy pace, mostly on surfaced roads and local cycle paths through residential neighbourhoods. The terrain is mildly hilly but not strenuous. There is no extra cost beyond rental or your own bike, and this option allows you to link the forest with other sights around Roskilde Fjord in a flexible half-day outing.
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Car or taxi within the Roskilde area
Driving from central Roskilde to the vicinity of Herregårdsvej and the access points for Himmelev Skov usually takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Roads are paved and straightforward, and parking is generally found near sports facilities, residential streets or small lay-bys close to the forest entrances, though spaces can be busier on sunny weekends. Taxis within the city typically cost around 120–200 DKK for such a short trip, varying with time of day and traffic. Once parked, access to the forest is on foot along wide, gently sloping paths.
Himmelev skov location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Himmelev skov
From gravel pits to green sanctuary
Himmelev Skov stretches across the gently undulating land north of Roskilde, where gravel was once extracted on an industrial scale. Today the pits have been softened by time and careful planning, reshaped into basins for ponds, small lakes and damp hollows that catch the light and attract birds. The area has been deliberately planted as a new state forest, creating a buffer that helps protect local groundwater and brings wildness back to the edge of the city. The trees here are still relatively young compared with old Danish beech forests, so light reaches the ground and the landscape feels open. You notice wide horizons, scattered copses and shelterbelts rather than dense, dark woodland. This gives the whole area a fresh, airy character, especially on clear days when the sky seems to sit low over the fields and tree lines.Layers of woodland, meadows and water
One of the pleasures of Himmelev Skov is how quickly the scenery shifts under your feet. Paths lead you through newly planted deciduous stands, across open grassland and into low, marshy areas in just a few minutes of walking. Dry, sunny slopes are allowed to develop as flower-rich grassland, while hollows hold wet meadows and reed-fringed ponds where frogs, dragonflies and ducks thrive. The variety of habitats brings subtle seasonal changes. In spring, fresh leaves glow almost neon-green against the pale trunks and early flowers dot the rides. Summer highlights the contrast between shaded woodland strips and sun-baked open areas. In autumn, the mix of species produces a patchwork of yellow, orange and lingering green, reflected in the still water of the old gravel basins.Trails for walkers, cyclists and riders
A network of waymarked trails runs through the forest, making it straightforward to explore without a map. Broad gravel tracks suit casual walks, prams and everyday cycling, while narrower paths tempt you to wander off on more meandering loops. The terrain is gently hilly rather than strenuous, offering enough rise and fall to keep things interesting without becoming demanding. Himmelev Skov is also planned with horses in mind. Dedicated riding tracks run along parts of the area, connecting with local equestrian facilities. You may see riders moving quietly along the edge of a meadow or climbing one of the low ridges, a reminder that this green belt is woven into everyday life for nearby residents, not separated from it.Nature, biodiversity and quiet corners
Although the forest is young, it has been designed to favour biodiversity. A mix of native tree species, undisturbed corners, deadwood left on the ground and uncut thickets around ponds all create niches for insects, birds and small mammals. Over time, as the trees mature and the soil recovers from its industrial past, this mosaic is expected to become richer and more complex. For visitors, this thoughtful approach is most obvious in the atmosphere. Birdsong carries clearly across the open areas, especially at dawn and in the evening. On calm days you can hear the rustle of leaves, the soft splash of water birds and little else. Benches or simple resting spots at viewpoints and beside water invite you to pause, look and listen rather than hurry through.A local escape on Roskilde’s northern fringe
Himmelev Skov sits right against the residential districts of Himmelev, making it an everyday green escape as much as a destination. Paths often start near housing, schools and sports facilities before slipping into the trees, so the boundary between town and forest feels pleasantly blurred. Families use it for short evening walks, runners for regular training loops and dog owners for daily circuits. Despite this local feel, the forest also appeals to visitors exploring the wider Roskilde area. Combined with historic sites in the city and the landscapes along Roskilde Fjord, it adds a quieter, more reflective dimension to a day’s itinerary. You come here not for grand views or dramatic landmarks, but for the simple rhythm of a Danish forest growing into its own identity.Changing with the seasons and expanding future
Because much of Himmelev Skov was planted only in recent decades, the area is visibly evolving. Saplings grow into solid stands, new sections are added, and paths are adjusted as the forest spreads across former farmland. Information from local authorities highlights ongoing expansion, underscoring its role in climate adaptation, water protection and creating more accessible nature close to where people live. Each season brings a different experience. Winter reveals the landforms of the old gravel workings in stark detail, while frost and occasional snow give the ponds a muted, monochrome beauty. In contrast, long summer evenings invite unhurried wanderings, when the low sun slants through rows of trees and the air carries the scent of warm grass and damp earth. Over years, returning visitors can watch this young landscape quietly mature.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Masterhøj udsigtspost
0.7 km
Bronze Age mound commanding 360-degree views of Roskilde, fjord, and medieval heritage.
Skänk Beer & Wine bar
3.3 km
Experience Aarhus’ celestial heritage at the Ole Rømer Observatory, where history, culture, and astronomy converge for hands-on stargazing and exploration.
Roskildekrukkerne
3.3 km
Three colossal ceramic jars rising from a mirrored basin transform Roskilde’s station square into an open-air monument to a thousand years of city history.
Det Kongelige Palæ i Roskilde
3.4 km
Baroque palace where Danish royalty met democracy, now a vibrant hub for art and culture.
Sct Hans Have
3.7 km
Explore Aarhus’ signature waterfront, where innovative architecture, lively promenades, and maritime history create Denmark’s most vibrant urban shoreline.
Ølstykke bypark - Bebyggelsen Søhøj Park ligger nord for byparken, fjern ALT med Søhøj også naturlegeplasen
14.2 km
Discover Ølstykke Bypark, a green haven offering tranquility and recreation in the heart of Ølstykke, perfect for families, nature lovers, and community events.
Roskilde Fjord
16.8 km
Discover Roskilde Fjord: A blend of Viking history, serene landscapes, and outdoor adventures awaits in this captivating Danish destination, easily accessible from Copenhagen.
Gerlevparkens Venner
18.3 km
Discover Denmark's horticultural heritage at Gerlevparken near Jægerspris: explore unique rose collections, a diverse tree collection, and tranquil gardens maintained by dedicated volunteers.
Køge Nord
18.5 km
A soaring timber‑lined footbridge and high‑speed rail hub turning everyday commuting into a slice of contemporary Danish architecture and panoramic landscape.
Søndersø
19.1 km
Escape to Søndersø: A serene lake in Værløse offering tranquil nature walks, birdwatching, and recreational activities amidst lush forests and historical landscapes.
LegeJunglen
20.6 km
Discover LegeJunglen in Slangerup: An indoor playground paradise with slides, trampolines, and jungle-themed fun for kids of all ages, ensuring a memorable family day out, rain or shine.
Drive in Put and Take
21.0 km
Discover a serene fishing escape at Drive in Put and Take in Lynge, Denmark, boasting clear waters, family-friendly facilities, and a tranquil atmosphere just a short drive from Copenhagen.
Køge Å
21.5 km
Explore Skagen’s maritime history with hands-on exhibits and live marine engines at Maskinrummet, an atmospheric museum in the heart of the harbour.
Farum Lake
21.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Farum Lake in Furesø Municipality, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Denmark.
Køge Ås
22.0 km
Striking lighthouse at Denmark’s northern edge, offering panoramic views, interactive birdwatching, café, exhibitions, and a window into Skagen’s wild coastal nature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vigen Strandpark
2.8 km
Calm fjord waters, a sandy strand and wide views to Roskilde’s skyline make Vigen Strandpark a relaxed, easy-going escape for swimming, paddling and picnics.
Frøspringvandet
2.8 km
A modest bronze frog fountain in Roskilde’s Klosterengen park, where playful sculpture, splashing water and everyday neighbourhood life meet in a tranquil corner.
Viking Ship Museum
2.9 km
Stand face to face with 1,000-year-old Viking ships, then step outside to see their full-scale descendants being built and sailed on Roskilde Fjord.
Lovise Kilden
2.9 km
A quietly flowing spring on Folkeparken’s edge, where a 19th-century convent resident left her name on Roskilde’s gentle green landscape.
Sct Ibs Kilde
2.9 km
A humble historic spring at Roskilde’s shoreline, Sct. Ibs Kilde links everyday water, medieval faith and the rise of a cathedral city above the fjord.
MC og Bil træf
3.0 km
Sommeraftener med motorbrøl, krom og uformel bilkultur på et åbent areal i Roskilde, hvor bil- og MC-entusiaster samles til hyggeligt torsdagstræf.
Sct Gertruds Kilde
3.0 km
A small, historic spring on Frederiksborgvej where Roskilde’s sacred past, urban growth and ever-flowing groundwater quietly meet at the edge of the city hillside.
Roskilde Harbour
3.0 km
Historic fjordside harbour where Viking heritage, a modern marina and relaxed waterfront life meet beneath the towers of Roskilde Cathedral.
Roskilde Mini Town
3.0 km
Explore centuries of Danish architecture in miniature form at this charming, detail-rich attraction.
Klosterkilden
3.1 km
Explore the captivating Baroque landscapes, woodland walks, and grandeur of Ledreborg Park, a serene 18th-century estate just outside Roskilde in Lejre.
RoS Gallery
3.1 km
Contemporary art in a beautifully restored gasworks on Roskilde’s harbour, pairing industrial character with changing exhibitions and free, easy-going access.
Puppe
3.1 km
A small but evocative public sculpture in Roskilde, “Puppe” offers a quiet moment of contemporary art amid everyday city life.
Byparkens Legeplads
3.2 km
Shaded, child-friendly play space in the heart of Roskilde’s Byparken, surrounded by mature trees, gentle equipment and the calm of a classic Danish city park.
Hestebrønden
3.2 km
A bronze horse fountain anchoring busy Hestetorvet square, Hestebrønden blends everyday city life with a quiet nod to Roskilde’s horse market past.
Roskilde Museum
3.3 km
Denmark's premier city museum revealing a thousand years of history in two heritage buildings.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Vigen
2.7 km
Waterfront Danish dining on Roskilde Fjord, where smørrebrød lunches and sunset dinners share the stage with sweeping views towards Roskilde’s historic skyline.
Restaurant Flammen - Roskilde Ro's Torv
2.8 km
Big-hearted grill buffet in Roskilde’s Ro’s Torv, serving abundant meats, hot dishes and a vast salad bar in a cosy, rustic setting ideal for families and groups.
LA RUSTICA - ROSKILDE
2.8 km
Bright, casual Italian dining above the shops at Ro’s Torv, serving pizzas, pastas, brunch plates and espresso in a relaxed, modern café‑style setting.
Zhiki Sushi
2.8 km
Casual, family‑run sushi inside Ro’s Torv, serving colorful rolls, all‑you‑can‑eat menus and easy takeaway for shoppers, families and locals in Roskilde.
M/S Sagafjord - Restaurant Roskilde
3.0 km
Classic restaurant ship gliding across Roskilde Fjord, pairing seasonal local cuisine with slow, scenic cruises from the harbour’s edge.
Café Fjordliv
3.0 km
Harbourfront Nordic–French café in Roskilde with its own sourdough bakery, organic coffee and seasonal small plates served beside the calm waters of the fjord.
Nira Sushi
3.0 km
Relaxed neighbourhood sushi spot in Roskilde serving fresh rolls, generous platters and Japanese-inspired favourites in a modern, low-key setting.
Snekken Trattoria
3.1 km
Waterfront Italian-inspired dining on Roskilde Harbour, pairing fjord views and a large terrace with relaxed brasserie dishes, brunch and all‑day service.
Pipers Hus
3.1 km
Classic Danish comfort food in a park pavilion with sweeping views over Roskilde Bypark, the harbour and fjord, blending city dining with a touch of nature.
Restaurant Store Børs
3.1 km
Seasonal Danish gourmet dining overlooking Roskilde Fjord, where ingredient quality and informal elegance meet.
Viking Pizza Roskilde
3.2 km
Hearty pizzas and grill classics near Roskilde’s Viking harbour, serving no‑nonsense comfort food for families, locals and museum‑goers from late morning to evening.
Bone's Roskilde
3.2 km
Legendary Danish BBQ steakhouse serving signature spareribs, premium burgers, and all-you-can-eat salad since 1990.
Det Mexicanske Bøfhus
3.2 km
Hearty Mexican‑inspired steaks and sizzling Tex‑Mex platters in a cozy, central Roskilde steakhouse on lively Algade.
Royal Indian - Roskilde
3.2 km
Cosy North Indian restaurant on Roskilde’s Algade, serving richly spiced curries, tandoori grills and plentiful vegetarian options in a warm, modern setting.
Røde Port Bistro
3.2 km
Cosy central Roskilde bistro where house-brewed beer, classic Danish comfort food and live music come together under one laid-back, brick-and-wood roof.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bonde Boutique
2.7 km
A long-standing Danish womenswear boutique inside Roskilde’s Ro’s Torv mall, blending classic Scandinavian style, modern brands and easy indoor shopping comfort.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
2.7 km
Affordable Scandinavian design meets playful discovery in Roskilde's premier gift and lifestyle destination.
RO's Torv
2.7 km
Modern, glass-fronted shopping hub in Roskilde with Danish design, high-street brands, cafés and cinema gathered in one weather-proof urban marketplace.
Borch Copenhagen
3.2 km
A cosy Scandinavian yarn and design shop on Roskilde’s main street, where curated fibres, colours and patterns turn knitting and crochet ideas into tangible projects.
Red Cross Op Shop
3.2 km
Volunteer-run Red Cross thrift shop in central Roskilde, where affordable second-hand finds and everyday browsing quietly support humanitarian work.
Devotuz
3.2 km
Compact clothing boutique on Roskilde’s Algade, offering practical, contemporary fashion in the heart of the historic town’s main shopping street.
Zander
3.3 km
Refined menswear boutique on Roskilde’s main shopping street, offering quality Scandinavian-style clothing and personal service in an intimate setting.
Zizzi - Roskilde
3.3 km
Contemporary plus-size fashion on Roskilde’s main shopping street, offering curve-friendly styles, seasonal collections and relaxed, confidence-focused service.
Kelz0r (Roskilde)
3.3 km
Compact but densely stocked, Kelz0r Roskilde is a friendly fantasy and trading card hub on Algade, where shelves, play tables and events keep local gamers coming back.
Femilet
3.3 km
Central Roskilde lingerie boutique specialising in comfortable, well-fitted underwear, nightwear and swimwear with personal fitting service on busy Algade.
No 1 Butik
3.3 km
Intimate Roskilde lifestyle boutique blending Nordic design, playful gifts and gourmet treats into one cozy, carefully curated shopping stop.
Feelfash
3.3 km
Intimate fashion boutique on Roskilde’s Algade, blending Danish street style with occasion-ready looks in a compact, curated setting.
Rud & Vester
3.3 km
A polished men’s clothing boutique on Roskilde’s main street, blending Scandinavian smart-casual style with attentive, old-school service.
Hos Simone
3.4 km
Cosy mother‑and‑daughter women’s boutique on Roskilde’s main street, offering wearable Scandinavian style, fair prices and warmly personal, small‑town service.
Lili-Marleen
3.4 km
A colourful Roskilde boutique where rockabilly swing dresses, gala gowns and vintage-inspired accessories outfit every generation for life’s most festive moments.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
RUCbar - café & bar
1.7 km
Student-run café-bar at Roskilde University’s Student House, serving affordable drinks and coffee in a relaxed campus hangout from lunchtime into the evening.
Mulligans Irish Pub
3.2 km
Authentic Irish pub in two storeys with live music, craft beers, and vibrant social atmosphere in central Roskilde.
Copé Lounge
3.3 km
Urban lounge bar by Roskilde’s main square, blending backyard summer vibes, easygoing cocktails and cosy Danish hygge late into the night.
Klosterkælderen
3.3 km
Roskilde's premier craft beer cellar with 200+ beers and authentic Danish pub charm.
Georges Bodega
3.3 km
Old-school Danish bodega at Roskilde’s Hestetorvet, pouring cold beer from morning to late night with indoor smoking, local regulars and station-square views.
Gustav Wieds - Byens Ølbar
3.5 km
Craft-focused neighbourhood beer bar in central Roskilde, combining eight rotating taps, a cosy wooden interior, jukebox tunes and billiards in a relaxed local atmosphere.
Teatercaféen
3.6 km
Unpretentious local beer hall in Roskilde where everyday life, cheap drinks and warm conversation matter more than design or trends.
PROP Vin og Tapasbar
3.6 km
Intimate Roskilde wine bar pairing curated bottles with Mediterranean-inspired tapas in a candlelit room and sheltered courtyard, strictly for a relaxed 25+ crowd.
Gullanden
3.6 km
An unpretentious Roskilde pub with darts, DJ nights, cold beer and a loyal local crowd, where evenings stretch easily into the early hours.
Ruder Konge Bodega
3.8 km
A timeworn Danish bodega in central Roskilde, offering cheap beer, pool tables and unpretentious pub life just off the city’s main pedestrian street.
PAUSE
3.8 km
Intimate wine and beer bar in Roskilde's historic center, celebrating Nordic hospitality and craft beverages.
28 Live
3.9 km
A lively “youth club for adults” in central Roskilde, blending bar, games, live shows, sport and nightclub energy under one sociable roof.
Charlie Chaplin
4.1 km
An unfussy neighbourhood bar in Roskilde, Charlie Chaplin pours cold beers and warm conversation in a relaxed local bodega setting far from the city’s tourist crowds.
Vinbaren Muicon
4.5 km
An intimate wine bar in Roskilde’s Musicon district, pairing cozy Nordic warmth with a curated wine list and relaxed, conversation-friendly vibes.
Musicon Mikrobryggeri
4.6 km
Local craft beer, stainless-steel tanks and live music energy in the heart of Roskilde’s creative Musicon district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dansebar Roskilde
3.5 km
Roskilde's premier multi-floor nightclub with dual dance spaces, three bars, and DJ-driven energy until dawn.
Garbos Roskilde
3.5 km
Cozy neighborhood nightclub in central Roskilde, blending casual bar vibes with a compact dance floor and late-night weekend energy on Hersegade.
Danseriet
4.0 km
Frivilligdrevet danseklub i Roskilde med stort dansegulv, livebands og hyggelig stemning for danseglade gæster på tværs af aldre og niveauer.
Klubhuset
5.9 km
Low-key local clubhouse turned disco-style nightspot, where a simple bar, small dance floor and regulars’ vibe create relaxed, unpretentious nights in Roskilde.
Tropicana DC
6.0 km
Compact Latin-flavoured nightclub on Roskilde’s industrial edge, delivering loud beats, simple drinks and a late-night dancefloor focused purely on partying.
Den Dansende Viking
12.4 km
High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.
The Flame
23.6 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub by Køge’s harbor, serving up youthful beats, live acts and weekend dance-floor vibes in an intimate, no-frills setting.
LUSIO
23.6 km
Compact harbor-side nightclub in Køge with late Friday hours, a tight dance floor, and an intimate, no‑frills setting for Danish weekend nights out.
Bloom Nightclub
23.7 km
Late-night harborfront beats and a compact dance floor bring big-night energy to small-city Køge every Friday and Saturday.
Falafelberg
25.8 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
Haven - Events
25.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
26.2 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Union
27.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Union, Copenhagen's premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable experience.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
27.4 km
Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
KB3
27.4 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at KB3, a lively night club in Vesterbro offering unforgettable music and vibrant experiences.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Pet Friendly
