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Vilkakalnis Observation Tower

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Historically, this location was home to a wooden ski jump, which was even taller than the current tower! The ski jump was one of the highest in Lithuania, drawing numerous athletes and spectators.

Info

Observation towers
Ignalina
Ignalina District Tourism Information Center

How to get there?

55.334788, 26.177993

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Located within the city limits of Ignalina, on a hill above the Green (Šiekščio) Lake, the 25-meter-high Vilkakalnis Observation Tower offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding nature. This spot is a popular attraction for both tourists and local residents. Historically, this location was home to a wooden ski jump, which was even taller than the current tower! The ski jump was one of the highest in Lithuania, drawing numerous athletes and spectators. The Ignalina Winter Sports Center was established in 1951 when local enthusiasts realized that the hilly terrain of the region was ideal for skiing. Bronius Šimkūnas, one of the initiators, took on the idea of creating a sports base and building

a ski jump in 1958. An ideal spot for the sports base was found among the steep hills near Green Lake. In 1963, a 50-meter-long wooden ski jump was built on Vilkakalnis Hill, with ski jump records reaching up to 60 meters. This ski jump operated until 1973, attracting many spectators and athletes from all over Lithuania. Today, the Vilkakalnis Observation Tower is a great destination for walks and nature hikes. It is recommended to reach the tower via a designated hiking trail that starts at the beginning of Sporto Street. You can park your car at the Lithuanian Winter Sports Center parking lot. This route offers not only breathtaking views but also an opportunity to learn more about Ignalina’s sports history.

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