Two hiking routes have been created in Ape: one is suitable for families with children and those who enjoy short walks, while the other will appeal to lovers of longer hikes. Both routes are circular, starting and ending at the Ape Crafts House, and are marked in nature with a red arrow on a white background.

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SMALL LOOP

Ape’s short lap includes the historic town centre of Ape, the Vaidava Nature Trail, Raganu Cliffs, several unusual trees, environmental objects, educational elements, and other points of interest.

Length: 6 kilometres
Surface: asphalt, cobblestone, and trails. There are stairs on the Vaidava Nature Trail.

Terrain: slight
The route includes the following stops:

Twin Pines, Environmental Installation “Climb and Jump into the Vaidava Cup” Historical town centre of Ape Ape Crafts house; Werewolf Pine; Cafe “Krodziņš” Ape Culture Centre Walking and cycling route “Green Railways”; Ape St Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran church Apes āra slidotava (hokeja laukums); Raganu Clifs; Fine-branched pine; Vaidava nature trail; Apes āra slidotava (hokeja laukums); Elīnas Zālītes memorial house Demopgraphic bridge Memorial sculpture of Elīna Zālīte; recreation area by the River Vaidava.

Route navigation files: gpx un map.

An interactive version of the short loop is available in the Actionbound app, combining the walk with an educational game. The game introduces walkers to facts about the town of Ape, encourages them to find specific locations, and invites them to complete a task at each stop along the route.

To open the interactive route:
1. Download the “Actionbound” app.
2. Open the app and type “Apes mazais aplis” in the search bar.
3. Register the players.
4. Follow the instructions and set off on your journey!

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BIG LOOP

The big lap leads around the town of Ape, introducing both the town itself and the rural landscapes of Ape Parish. Along the way, visitors can see various natural and environmental sites, cultural and historical heritage, the town’s streets and buildings, as well as several recreation areas and swimming spots.

Length: 12 kilometres.
Surface: gravel and forest roads, trails, and asphalt.

Terrain: slight
The route includes the following stops: Elīna Zālīte Memorial house; Twin Pines; Vaidava Nature trail; Apes Crafts house; Demographic Bridge; Ape Manor park; cafe “Krodziņš”; walking and cycling route “Green Railway”; Raganu cliffs; Arvis Levands Ape Motocross track; Dāvis Ozoliņš park; Werewolf Pine; recreation area by the River Vaidava.

Route navigation files: gpx un map.

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More information about the town of Ape and Ape parish available on the website of Smiltene Municipality smiltenesnovads.lv