The Gudenå Trail stage 1 - from the sources to Gudenå
This beautiful 12-kilometre hike takes you along natural paths through the Gudenå Valley, from The Great Watershed – where the River Gudenå gently springs from the ground – to the village of Tørring. Along the way, you will pass through unique natural landscapes, and it is no coincidence that the springs are part of Denmark’s Nature Canon.
The beginning of the Gudenå Trail
It will hardly come as a surprise, but the Gudenå Trail begins and ends where the river itself begins and ends. Stage 1 therefore has its natural starting point at the very source of the River Gudenå, where the water quietly bubbles up from the ground. The source is located in Tinnet Krat, Denmark’s largest oak scrub forest and one of the last remnants of the vast oak woodland that once covered almost all of Jutland. The area is known as The Great Watershed, as Denmark’s two most important rivers (the River Gudenå and the River Skjern) both rise here just 100 metres apart. The natural surroundings here – and along the stage in general – are truly something special.
About the scenic route
Stage 1 is approximately 12 kilometres long. The route is characterised by the fact that most of the walk follows natural paths with grass and earth underfoot. There is very little gravel or asphalt on this stage. From time to time, the natural path is broken up by the characteristic wooden footbridges that allow you to cross the wettest sections without getting your feet wet. However, you should consider your choice of footwear, as parts of the route can be muddy and even waterlogged after periods of heavy rain.
In many places, the River Gudenå resembles a large river, but along this stretch towards Tørring it is little more than a stream, which makes this stage stand out from the rest of the Gudenå Trail.
Along the way, you will pass through fenced areas where cattle graze. Here, you will need to pass through nature gates or small enclosures. The route is generally not suitable for those with limited mobility. In several places, the trail passes through private land. Please note that it is not permitted to stop or stay on private property. This applies in particular to the alpaca farm Myllerup Østergaard. We understand that the animals are very cute, but it is not allowed to linger here without prior arrangement. However, you are welcome to contact the owners in advance to ask about the possibility of taking a guided alpaca walk along the trail or visiting their farm shop.
Transport and accommodation
The route starts or ends (depending on which direction you walk) in the village of Tørring. With around 3,000 inhabitants, the town offers good opportunities for shopping and accommodation. There are good parking facilities in the town, and it is possible to take a regional bus here from Horsens or Vejle.
The source of the River Gudenå is located far from the nearest town, and it is therefore not possible to reach it by public transport. However, you can book a flex taxi from Tørring to the source at a reasonable price. Use Rejseplanen to explore your options. The Ancient Road (Hærvejen) passes by the source of the Gudenå, so another option is to continue along the route to Nørre Snede and catch a bus to Horsens from there. This doubles the distance, but it is a very scenic and highly recommended walk.
The route ends at Tørring Camping, where you can stay in a cabin or your own tent. There are also several shelters near the source.
Digital help along the route
You can use the Google Maps above to help you navigate the route. Alternatively, you can use the digital map on oplevgudenaa.dk, where you can, among other things, check flood conditions and find inspiration for your trip. On the OplevGudenå website, you can also find further inspiration for your hike and experiences along the way.
Last updated on April 7, 2026 by Casper Terkelsen