Boomkroonpad
Drenthe
The Boomkroonpad is a remarkable treetop walkway located in the Boswachterij Gieten-Borger forest in the Dutch province of Drenthe. Created by Staatsbosbeheer and opened in 1996, this 125-meter-long elevated path allows visitors to explore the forest canopy via a root tunnel and a spiral staircase. The walkway culminates in a viewing tower that rises 22.5 meters above the ground, offering expansive views of the surrounding Hondsrug landscape, a notable sand ridge that stretches from Emmen to Groningen. The Boomkroonpad is part of an educational theme park dedicated to forest life, providing a unique opportunity to observe nature from an elevated perspective. Adjacent to the walkway is the Buitencentrum Boomkroonpad, which serves as a hub for various walking and cycling routes, offers visitor facilities including a shop with nature-related products, and houses the Paviljoen de Woudstee restaurant. This attraction combines outdoor adventure with environmental education, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
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Tip: Visit during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. It's advisable to check the opening hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid queues. The Buitencentrum offers amenities including a restaurant and a shop for nature gear. Families can also explore the nearby Lorken play forest for additional outdoor fun.
Interesting facts
- •The Boomkroonpad features a 125-meter-long elevated walkway among tree canopies.
- •Its highest point is a viewing tower standing 22.5 meters tall.
- •It is part of an educational theme park focused on forest life by Staatsbosbeheer.
- •The Hondsrug, where the Boomkroonpad is located, is one of the highest sand ridges in Drenthe, stretching from Emmen to Groningen.
- •Similar treetop walkways exist in Belgium, France, and Germany, highlighting a European trend in forest education and ecotourism.
History
The Boomkroonpad was inaugurated in 1996 as part of Staatsbosbeheer's initiative to create educational nature experiences in the Boswachterij Gieten-Borger forest.
Since its opening, it has served as a unique attraction that allows visitors to walk among the treetops, enhancing public awareness of forest ecosystems.
Over the years, it has become a key feature of the Hondsrug region's outdoor offerings, complementing the area's natural and geological significance as a prominent sand ridge in Drenthe.
Place Guide
Treetop Walkway1996
A 125-meter-long elevated path that leads visitors through the canopy of the forest, accessed via a root tunnel and a spiral staircase, providing an immersive nature experience from above the ground.
Viewing Tower1996
The highest point of the Boomkroonpad, standing 22.5 meters tall, offering expansive views over the Hondsrug landscape and surrounding forest areas.
Buitencentrum Boomkroonpad
Visitor center serving as the starting point for various walking and cycling routes, featuring a shop with nature-related products and the Paviljoen de Woudstee restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.
Contact
Phone: 0592 377 305
