The Kickelhahn is Ilmenau's house mountain, rising to 861 metres on the northern edge of the Thuringian Forest. A lookout tower crowns the summit, giving wide views over Ilmenau, the wooded ridges and, on clear days, far beyond the Ilm valley.
The climb from town is a proper walk rather than a casual urban stroll, but it is manageable for anyone with reasonable fitness. The classic route links several Goethe sites and forest stops, which keeps the ascent interesting. Go early if you want the tower and paths at their quietest.