Nature and outdoor activities

The mountain biking opportunities in Silkeborg are among the best in Denmark. Ly Outdoor Camp is located between Nordskoven and Vesterskoven in Silkeborg, offering trails suited to all skill levels. In Vesterskoven, you’ll find Denmark’s longest downhill run at 1.4 kilometers, while Nordskoven’s black trail lets you ride 12.4 kilometers through the towering Douglas firs and beech trees.

Learn about the mountain bike trails and the bike park here. 

You can rent mountain bikes at Cykelfavoritten. 

Experience Silkeborg from the water in a canoe, kayak, or on a SUP board. We have seven canoes available for rent by the hour or for the day. If you’re on a canoe trip, our camp is the perfect stop for an overnight stay or two.  

We also have a Kayakomat on-site, where you can rent kayaks, tandem kayaks, and SUP boards. Learn more about the Kayakomat and booking options here.  

You don’t have to be a guest at the camp to rent our canoes or use the Kayakomat – it’s open to everyone.

The combination of ancient heathlands, majestic forests, rolling hills, and beautiful lakes is unique to the Søhøjlandet region. All you need to do is lace up your hiking boots and head out to chase unforgettable nature experiences.

Both the Himmelbjergruten and Silkeruten trails pass by Ly Outdoor Camp. The Himmelbjergruten is a 52-kilometer hiking route winding along the Silkeborg Lakes, while the Silkeruten is a 12-kilometer nature, culture, and experience trail encircling central Silkeborg. There’s also a seven-kilometer hiking route through Østerskoven, starting just a stone’s throw from the camp.

Silkeborg's stunning natural surroundings offer fantastic opportunities for a refreshing run. The area around the camp is perfect for a scenic run through the forest and by the lakes. For inspiration, Silkeborg Running Club has created a great overview of forest trails.

About 1.5 kilometers southwest of Ly Outdoor Camp lies Almindsø, home to the two lake baths Østre Søbad and Vestre Søbad. Almindsø is one of Denmark’s cleanest lakes, surrounded by charming forest. A path around the lake spans approximately four kilometers, offering a beautiful hiking experience with a scenic viewpoint at Kroghs Bænk.  

The lake baths are very family-friendly, featuring bathing piers, sandy beaches, restrooms, and changing facilities. At Østre Søbad, you’ll also find a mobile kiosk selling coffee, snacks, and ice cream.

The climbing park is Silkeborg’s newest major outdoor attraction. It features a large climbing park with up to six courses (suitable for ages six and up). Additionally, there’s a playground for the little ones, a spacious picnic hut with a rooftop terrace offering views of Silkeborg, dining areas with tables and benches, and a large fire pit with a grill grate.

The old Central Jutland railway lines have been transformed into paved bike trails, guiding cyclists through the stunning landscapes of Søhøjlandet. You can also challenge yourself on the 26 toughest cycling hills in and around Silkeborg. 

If you love the thrill of skateboarding, scootering, rollerblading, or BMX riding, Silkeborg SkatePark is the place to be. Covering 6,000 square meters, it’s Denmark’s largest skatepark. Perched atop the Silkeborg motorway tunnel, this paradise for skaters and anyone on wheels offers turns, jumps, and ramps to explore and enjoy.

Dreaming of reeling in a big pike? Throughout the season, anglers catch both small and large freshwater fish in the Silkeborg Lakes – some weighing up to 15 kilos. To fish in the Gudenå River and the Silkeborg Lakes, you’ll need to purchase a fishing license and, in some cases, a local fishing permit.