Trækstien – Towpath along the Gudenå River
Historic towpath turned riverside hiking route, tracing the Gudenå between Silkeborg and Randers through wetlands, forests and meadows rich in quiet, watery atmosphere.
Trækstien is a historic towpath turned hiking route that follows the Gudenå River for around 70–74 km between Silkeborg and Randers in central Jutland. Once used by horses and barge workers hauling cargo along Denmark’s longest river, it now offers serene walking close to the water’s edge, through river valleys, wetlands, forests and open fields. Boardwalks, birdlife, old barge inns and ever‑changing water levels make this a varied, atmospheric trail for day hikes and multi‑day treks.
A brief summary to Trækstien
- Trækstien, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 16 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Check recent information on Gudenå water levels before you go; several low-lying sections can be flooded or very muddy after rain or in winter.
- Break the route into manageable stages and base yourself in towns such as Silkeborg, Bjerringbro or Randers for flexible day hikes.
- Wear waterproof footwear and bring poles if you dislike slippery surfaces; you will encounter grass, mud and boardwalks close to the river.
- Carry snacks and water, especially on quieter stretches; services cluster in towns and at a few historic inns rather than evenly along the entire trail.
- In summer, pack insect repellent and light layers; riverside marshes can be mosquito‑rich on still evenings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and walk from Silkeborg
From larger Danish cities such as Aarhus, take a regional train to Silkeborg Station, typically 35–45 minutes from Aarhus with departures at least hourly and a one‑way fare around 80–120 DKK in standard class. From the station, expect a 15–25 minute walk through town to reach the Gudenå riverfront and join Trækstien, mostly on paved, level sidewalks suitable for most visitors. This option avoids parking issues and works well year‑round, though evening services are less frequent.
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Car access to Silkeborg trailheads
Driving to Silkeborg from Aarhus or Viborg takes roughly 45–60 minutes via main regional roads, with no tolls. Once in Silkeborg, you can park in public car parks near the centre and stroll 10–20 minutes to the river to meet Trækstien. Parking is often time‑limited or pay‑and‑display in central areas, with typical fees in the range of 10–20 DKK per hour during the day. This is the most flexible option if you plan to walk only a short section and return to your vehicle.
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Bus connections along the Gudenå valley
Regional buses link Silkeborg with valley towns such as Bjerringbro and Randers in about 60–110 minutes, depending on route and stops, with single tickets usually costing 40–90 DKK. Using bus services, you can start your hike in one town and finish in another, then ride back to your base. Services are generally reliable but may run less frequently in evenings and on weekends, so check timetables in advance and allow extra time for connections.
Trækstien location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Hot Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Trækstien
Old river lifeline turned nature trail
Trækstien traces the bends of the Gudenå River between Silkeborg and Randers, following what was once the work route of horses and bargemen hauling heavily loaded boats upstream. In the 19th century, this towpath was a vital supply line for Silkeborg’s paper mill and other industries, long before railways took over. Today the working river corridor has become a green ribbon of reeds, willows and meadows, but the sense of a purposeful route still lingers as the trail keeps loyally to the water’s edge. Because the path hugs the river so closely, you are never far from the quiet splash of current against the bank, the ripple of a passing canoe or the low call of waterfowl hidden in the rushes. It feels surprisingly remote in places, even though towns and villages are never too far away up the valley sides.Landscapes shaped by water and ice
The Gudenå valley here is a broad meltwater landscape, carved at the end of the last Ice Age. Along Trækstien you walk past river terraces, oxbow lakes and low, flat meadows that flood easily when the river rises. Between Silkeborg and Svostrup, long sections have been upgraded with boardwalks that lift you above the wetlands; one stretch is known as Denmark’s longest continuous boardwalk, crossing shimmering marsh dotted with sedges and water channels. Further north, the scenery shifts between dense riverside woodland, open pasture grazed by cattle and stretches where the river slows into wider lake-like basins rich in birdlife. Places such as Sminge Sø and other side lakes offer bird towers and viewpoints where you can pause and watch herons, ducks and sometimes osprey hunting over the water.Walking the towpath today
Most visitors sample Trækstien in sections rather than tackling the full distance. The route is commonly divided into several day stages, including the southern Silkeborg–Svostrup part and central stretches towards Ans, Kjællinghøl and Langå. Wayfinding is straightforward, with markers and simple signage, and the river itself acts as a constant guide – if you stay close to the Gudenå, you are on the right track. Underfoot, expect a mix of grass, packed earth, gravel and boardwalk. Some areas can be muddy or even submerged after heavy rain, particularly outside the well‑drained sections near Silkeborg and Kongensbro. Hikers often plan itineraries with short road or higher‑ground alternatives in mind for periods when the lowest riverbank segments are flooded.Atmosphere along the water
Despite its length, Trækstien feels intimate rather than grand. The river is rarely wide, and hedgerows, alder trees and reeds give many parts of the trail a sheltered, enclosed character. On early mornings mist hangs low over the water, while on clear evenings the light lingers over the meadows and the silhouettes of low hills in the Søhøjlandet lake district near Silkeborg. Scattered along the route are shelters, primitive campsites and a few historic inns that once served the barge workers. Today they provide atmospheric places to pause over a meal or drink, and in some cases to stay overnight on a longer trek. Benches and small resting spots appear at irregular intervals, often at especially scenic river bends or where there is easy access down to the water.Practical considerations and seasons
Trækstien is generally classed as an easy to moderate trail, suited to reasonably fit walkers rather than technical hikers. The main challenge is not steep climbs but variable ground conditions. Because the Gudenå is a living river, sections of the towpath flood periodically; in wet periods you may encounter waterlogged stretches, while drier months open up the full route. Spring and early summer bring lush greenery and busy birdlife, while late summer and early autumn offer stable conditions and softer light over the fields. Winter walks can be atmospheric on frost‑hardened ground, but short daylight hours and higher water levels demand more caution and flexibility when choosing which sections to explore.Who will enjoy Trækstien
This is a trail for walkers who enjoy being close to water, moving at a slow pace and noticing small changes in landscape rather than dramatic summits. It works well as a gentle day hike from Silkeborg, where you can follow the river out of town and feel the city gradually fall away behind you, or as a multi‑day journey linking riverside shelters and country inns. Nature photographers, birdwatchers and anyone interested in Denmark’s industrial and transport history will find plenty of interest along the way. Families can choose shorter, boardwalk‑rich segments near Silkeborg for an easy outing, while experienced hikers might take on longer daily stages and use Trækstien as the backbone of a multi‑day walking holiday in central Jutland.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Store Troldhøj
9.0 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Randershøj
10.5 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
silkeborg
15.7 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Silkeborg Water Tower
16.5 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
Lovisehøj
17.0 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
19.8 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
20.9 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
21.5 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
H.C. Andersen bench
21.6 km
A literary memorial where Denmark's beloved fairy tale author found inspiration amid rolling hills and sparkling lakes.
Bestig Himmelbjerget
21.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Himmelbjerget, Denmark's iconic Sky Mountain in the heart of the Lake District, offering hiking, boat trips, and cultural experiences.
Murermester Rasmus Nielsens Mindesten
22.1 km
A hidden memorial stone honoring a master mason's legacy in Silkeborg's quiet forest.
Dollerup Bakker
22.6 km
Dokk1: Aarhus' award-winning cultural center blending modern architecture with community engagement.
Bølling Lake
22.7 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
The Manor House of Hald
22.8 km
Five centuries of Danish history and architecture nestled beside a glacial lake near Viborg.
De Fem Halder
22.8 km
Dokk1: Aarhus' premier cultural hub blending modern architecture with community engagement on the waterfront.
Unmissable attractions to see
Energimuseet
7.7 km
Denmark's energy revolution comes alive where history powers the future.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
9.0 km
A countryside trove of more than a century of motoring, where pioneer runabouts, fire engines and barn‑find relics share the floor with gleaming classic cars.
Gudenådalens Museum
9.1 km
Small in size but rich in heritage, Gudenådalens Museum reveals Viking treasures, rural crafts, and rune stones from Denmark’s Gudenå Valley in Bjerringbro.
Landal Søhøjlandet
9.5 km
Family-friendly forest holiday park on a quiet Jutland plateau, blending indoor pools and activities with easy access to Denmark’s lake-district landscapes.
Vinderslevholm
12.5 km
Late Gothic manor on a lake peninsula, where red-brick gables, still water and open Jutland fields create a quietly dramatic snapshot of Danish manor heritage.
Befrielsessten i Resenbro
12.9 km
A leading Danish contemporary art gallery in Silkeborg, Galerie Moderne offers rotating exhibitions by top Scandinavian and international artists in a striking modernist space.
Ulstrup Castle
13.3 km
Renaissance manor by the Gudenå River, where centuries of Danish noble history meet tranquil parkland and seasonal concerts in a restored rural estate.
Silkeborg Søerne
15.4 km
Denmark's premier water gateway—paddle, cruise, and explore the pristine lakes of Søhøjlandet from the heart of Silkeborg.
Slotsholmen
15.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views over Silkeborg's heather-clad hills and serene lakes at Kongestolen, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Kedelhuset
15.7 km
Intimate live music and performance venue in Silkeborg’s former paper mill boiler house, blending industrial charm with a modern black box concert hall.
Riverboat Jazz Festival
15.7 km
Swinging jazz, riverboats and long Nordic evenings fuse in Silkeborg’s lake district for a five-day celebration where the entire town becomes a waterside stage.
Museum Silkeborg, Papirmuseet
15.8 km
A living paper workshop in Silkeborg’s old factory, where you watch pulp become sheets, learn about banknote paper and try your hand at this quietly magical craft.
Springvand
15.8 km
Silkeborg Langsø’s towering fountain turns the town’s central lake into a stage of water and light, blending engineering spectacle with everyday lakeside life.
The Hjejle Agency
15.8 km
Denmark's oldest steamship still operating with its original 1861 engine, offering historic cruises through the scenic Silkeborg Lake District.
Museum Silkeborg, Hovedgården
16.0 km
Step into Silkeborg’s oldest manor house to meet Tollund Man, explore bog mysteries and trace the town’s journey from Iron Age wetlands to modern Jutland hub.
Essential places to dine
Restauranter I Silkeborg
8.2 km
Cosy countryside dining on the edge of Silkeborg, pairing classic Danish comfort food with peaceful rural scenery and a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere.
Svostrup Kro
8.2 km
Historic riverside inn on the Gudenå, where creaking floors, candlelit dining rooms and hearty Danish cuisine create a timeless countryside escape.
Mad Magi.dk
8.8 km
Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in a warm, welcoming setting in Denmark's Jutland region.
Brasseriet Søhøjlandet
9.5 km
Relaxed family brasserie in the hills of Søhøjlandet, serving stone-oven pizzas, seasonal buffets, and local drinks at the heart of Landal’s holiday park.
Restaurant The Grill Silkeborg
14.4 km
All-you-can-eat grill buffet with 15+ meat cuts, 50+ salads, and theatrical carving in Silkeborg.
Restaurant King Buffet (Borgergade)
15.0 km
Big, bustling Asian buffet in central Silkeborg, serving sushi, Chinese classics, Mongolian grill and soft‑ice desserts at fixed prices ideal for families and groups.
Atami Sushi Restaurant - Silkeborg
15.1 km
Fresh sushi served to your table in an all-you-can-eat experience that celebrates quality, variety, and authentic Japanese flavors.
DIVA Ristorante & Pizzeria
15.1 km
Casual Italian‑style pizzas, pastas and grills in central Silkeborg, blending sit‑down dining with a busy takeaway counter and long, convenient opening hours.
The Chicken Specialist
15.2 km
A small, central Silkeborg grillbar devoted to crispy rotisserie chicken, golden fries and budget-friendly takeaway dinners for busy locals and hungry travellers.
Restaurant King Buffet (Ansvej)
15.2 km
Spacious Asian buffet in Silkeborg, serving sushi, Chinese dishes and Mongolian grill in a modern, family‑friendly setting with all‑you‑can‑eat comfort.
Bone's Silkeborg
15.6 km
Smoky ribs, flame-grilled steaks and family-friendly comfort food in Silkeborg’s regenerated Papirfabrikken riverside district.
Evald - Brasserie & cafe
15.6 km
Classic French-inspired brasserie meets Danish hygge on the riverfront at Papirfabrikken, serving from morning coffee to late-night drinks with serene waterside views.
Café Kik
15.6 km
Waterfront café on the Gudenå river with quality Danish fare and scenic riverside views.
Radisson Blu Hotel Papirfabrikken, Silkeborg
15.7 km
Industrial heritage meets riverside luxury in Denmark's lake district.
Restaurant Michael D.
15.7 km
Seasonal Nordic dining in Silkeborg’s converted paper mill, where industrial heritage, hotel comfort and riverside views meet beside the town’s cultural quarter.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Malebox.dk
8.3 km
Male-focused gift shop on Nebelvej in Silkeborg, mixing practical gadgets, grooming gear and playful novelties into quick, memorable gift ideas.
Sj Tekstil og Kunst
11.0 km
Rural Danish boutique and web shop specializing in timeless women’s fashion in natural materials, blending a calm studio feel with carefully curated Scandinavian style.
نثنثنبنب
11.1 km
Functional designer outlet on Copenhagen’s outskirts, focused on discounted fashion, sportswear, and everyday essentials in a straightforward, no‑frills setting.
By Baunbaek (Just a Girl)
11.2 km
International bohemian fashion curated for the free-spirited, right in the heart of Jutland.
The Silkeborg Ski Shop
13.7 km
Specialist ski outfitter in Silkeborg where Scandinavian style, expert advice and quality gear come together before you head for the winter mountains.
Møbelhuset Silkeborg A/S
13.9 km
Spacious Scandinavian furniture house in Silkeborg, offering curated room settings, design-led Danish brands and personal guidance for complete home interiors.
Hjemmebryggeren v/Ken Gade Thøgersen
14.2 km
A no‑nonsense Silkeborg homebrewing hub where sacks of malt, fragrant hops and expert advice help turn curious visitors into confident DIY beer makers.
KiDS Coolshop Silkeborg
14.5 km
Big-box toy wonderland on Brokbjergvej, where Silkeborg families and visitors stock up on games, gifts and playful gear for kids of every age.
Let-Køb (Byens Købmand Kjellerup)
14.7 km
Local grocer with fresh produce, competitive prices, and genuine community service in central Kjellerup.
Læsehesten Silkeborg
14.8 km
A cosy Silkeborg cave of used books, comics, games and films where collectors, readers and gamers lose track of time among shelves of nostalgic finds.
Din Tøjmand
14.8 km
Well-stocked men’s outfitter in central Kjellerup, combining trusted brands, occasion wear and everyday basics with friendly, personal service on Søndergade.
Imerco
14.9 km
Compact Danish homeware and kitchen specialist on Kjellerup’s main square, blending practical everyday essentials with gift ideas and cosy design touches.
SHOPPE LOPPE
15.0 km
A vast indoor flea-market supermarket in Silkeborg with over 400 stands, mixing retro design, antiques, clothing and curios in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
MadebyMichelle
15.1 km
Intimate Silkeborg atelier where a local designer turns Scandinavian simplicity into small-batch fashion accessories on a quiet residential street.
Special-butikken Rask A/S
15.2 km
Silkeborg's trusted source for professional tools, equipment, and expert guidance since 1978.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oldboys Mc
4.0 km
A low-key biker clubhouse bar in Fårvang, where local riders gather over beers, stories and engines in an authentic, no-frills Danish village setting.
Kristinesminde
5.9 km
A rustic farm bar in rural Jutland, Kristinesminde pours handcrafted Danish ciders in a cozy, countryside setting on the edge of Fårvang.
Bistro Byens Hjørne v/Evald Scherer Laursen
12.0 km
Cozy corner bistro in central Rødkærsbro, serving straightforward food, cold beers and small‑town Danish atmosphere in a friendly neighborhood bar setting.
Pub North Cape v / Allan Hede
12.3 km
Unpretentious neighborhood pub in northern Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks, easygoing hygge and a slice of local bar life late into the evening.
John's
12.9 km
Hammel's premier pub and nightlife destination with live music, DJ performances, and vibrant disco entertainment.
Kings Pub
14.8 km
Straightforward local bar on Borgergade in Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and a relaxed, sociable pub atmosphere from daytime into late evening.
The Smoke Pub
15.2 km
A classic Silkeborg bodega on Borgergade, where smoke, cold beer and easy conversation create an unpretentious local living room from late morning to late night.
Kaptajnens Slyngelstue
15.2 km
An old-school Danish bodega in Silkeborg where cold beer, warm banter and a hint of maritime mischief create the captain’s cosiest neighbourhood hideout.
Woodys Aps
15.2 km
Experience the warm ambiance and diverse drinks at Woodys Aps, a central bar in Silkeborg.
Bakkens bodega
15.7 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.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
15.7 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
Café Kling Klang
16.2 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Admiral Pub
16.2 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
Kaffebaren
16.2 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
Roxy Malt
16.3 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
- Seasonal Only
- Remote
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
