CopenHill: Ski a Power Plant? Experience Copenhagen's Wild Side!

TLDR: Skiing on a power plant sounds wild, and CopenHill delivers a unique, sustainable adventure with panoramic city views, hiking, and even a climbing wall, though its artificial slopes offer a distinct experience compared to natural snow.

Copenhagen is a city of innovation, and few places embody that spirit quite like CopenHill. Recently, I had the chance to explore this incredible architectural and recreational marvel. 

If you're planning a trip to Denmark's capital and looking for something truly out of the ordinary, this article will walk you through my firsthand impressions, offering practical insights into what you can see, do, and expect at this groundbreaking attraction.

What is the story behind CopenHill?

Imagine a ski slope in a country famously flat – that's the audacious reality of CopenHill. It's officially named "Amager Bakke", and this building is a bold statement about urban innovation and sustainability, designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG). 

It opened in 2019, and it replaced an older waste-to-energy plant, marking a significant step in Copenhagen's push for carbon neutrality. Beneath its recreational facade lies a remarkably clean waste-to-energy facility, transforming nearly half a million tons of waste annually into energy for around 150,000 homes. 

This concept, dubbed "hedonistic sustainability", proves environmental solutions can be both enjoyable and exciting. If you're eager to uncover more of Copenhagen's hidden gems and their stories, using an audio guide like StoryHunt can really enrich your exploration of the city. You can try StoryHunt for free here.

Is it free to go up CopenHill?

Yes, generally, you can walk, run, or take the elevator to CopenHill's rooftop café for free during opening hours. Standing atop this innovative landmark, which sits directly on a cutting-edge waste-to-energy plant, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Copenhagen. On a clear day, you might even spot Sweden across the Öresund. 

While strolling and enjoying the scenery won't cost you anything, specific activities like skiing, sledding, or tackling the world's tallest artificial climbing wall do have associated fees. 

As you ascend in the modern glass elevator, you even get a unique glimpse into the plant's ecological waste recycling process – a fascinating detail before you even step onto the roof.

How much does it cost to ski at CopenHill?

If you're keen to hit the slopes at CopenHill, the costs are pretty straightforward, though they add up if you need gear. 

• For a 1 to 3-hour session including rental equipment (skis, boots, poles, helmet), prices typically start around $57 USD. 
• Booking directly through CopenHill for a one-hour ski session costs DKK 150 (about $22 USD). 
• You'll also need to factor in an additional DKK 50 for a reusable lift card and DKK 20 for insurance. 
• If you don't bring your own, renting all the necessary ski equipment separately adds another DKK 150 (around $22 USD). 

Gliding down the 85-meter-high artificial slope, regardless of the season, offers unique views of the city, blending urban innovation with outdoor sport.

Does CopenHill have snow?

No, CopenHill does not feature natural snow. Instead, it offers an artificial ski slope made from a synthetic material called Neveplast. This ingenious surface allows for year-round skiing and snowboarding, regardless of Copenhagen's weather. You won't find powdery white slopes here, but rather a unique green surface that provides a different, yet functional, experience. 

Beyond the slopes, this urban attraction - built atop a waste-to-energy plant - also features hiking trails that wind across its roof, a relaxing rooftop bar where you can enjoy a drink, and even the world's tallest artificial climbing wall, soaring 85 meters into the sky.

What's inside CopenHill?

Inside CopenHill, beneath the bustling rooftop, lies a state-of-the-art waste-to-energy power plant. This facility efficiently incinerates waste, providing clean electricity and heating for thousands of homes in Copenhagen. 

Yet, the exterior is ingeniously designed for public enjoyment, truly embodying that "hedonistic sustainability" concept. Outside, you'll find the world's tallest artificial climbing wall, a challenging 85-meter ascent that draws climbers from far and wide. The expansive rooftop itself is a year-round recreational hub, featuring its unique synthetic ski slope, roughly 400-450 meters long with various inclines and ski lifts. 

For those not skiing, lush hiking and running trails offer panoramic views across the city, extending all the way to Sweden. You can even observe the plant's operations through a glass elevator on your way up.

How to get to CopenHill?

Reaching CopenHill, located at Vindmøllevej 6, 2300 København, is quite straightforward from central Copenhagen. Public transportation is a convenient option; several bus routes service the area, dropping you within a short walk of the entrance. If you prefer a direct route, taxis or ride-sharing services will take you right to the facility. 

Given Copenhagen's reputation as a cycling city, biking to CopenHill is also a popular and scenic choice, offering an active way to arrive. For those driving, both free and paid parking options are available nearby. 

Remember to check their current operating hours before you head out, as they can vary throughout the year.

Is it worth visiting CopenHill?

CopenHill absolutely offers a unique experience, particularly for its blend of architectural innovation and urban recreation. Skiing or snowboarding on its artificial slope, with Copenhagen's skyline stretching around you, is certainly a novelty. Beyond the slopes, the world's tallest artificial climbing wall and the rooftop hiking trails are fantastic for active visitors, culminating in a café with expansive views.

However, temper your expectations for the skiing itself. The artificial surface feels quite different from natural snow – it's more like skiing on ice, often requiring silicone spray for smoother gliding and potentially causing more wear on your equipment. While the views are broad, some visitors find them industrial rather than naturally beautiful. The rooftop bar, too, can be quite basic.

It's an ideal spot for those seeking a novel, active urban adventure or who appreciate groundbreaking sustainable architecture. Casual skiers looking to practice or learn will enjoy it, as will hikers seeking a city viewpoint. Serious alpine skiers, however, might be disappointed if they expect a traditional snowy experience. 

If you're wondering how to prioritize your Copenhagen itinerary, StoryHunt can help you easily decide what to see next.

What else can I do in Copenhagen?

Beyond the urban slopes of CopenHill, Copenhagen offers a fantastic array of experiences. 

• You could easily spend a day at Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks, whose charm reputedly inspired Walt Disney. 
• A canal tour through the picturesque Nyhavn, with its vibrant 17th-century houses, is a must-do, allowing you to soak in the city's historic waterfront. 
• Don't miss the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony at Amalienborg Palace, the royal residence. 
• For a truly unique local vibe, explore Freetown Christiania, a self-governing community, or indulge in diverse street food at Reffen, the Nordic region's largest market. 
• And a fun fact: Copenhagen is incredibly bike-friendly, boasting more bicycles than cars, and its harbor water is so clean you can swim in it!

Check out our guide to the top attractions in nearby Christianshavn, and remember to use the StoryHunt app in order to get the most out of your stay. Download StoryHunt for Android and iOS here.