Hiking in Steinkjer
Steinkjer offers a wide range of wonderful walking opportunities. From a short but steep climb up Oftenåsen – where you’ll find the world’s largest garden chair – to longer hikes into the mountains, taking you all the way to Norway’s geographical midpoint or to Follaheia, where you’re rewarded with stunning views over the sea. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a quick adventure or a full day out in nature.
Kristin og Trude på Karl Johans Veg i Verdal. Foto: Explorative AS
Oftenåsen – 5 km roundtrip
Oftenåsen sits just outside Steinkjer town centre. At the top, you’ll find Peilehytta – offering refreshments on Sundays between 11am and 3pm – the world’s largest garden chair, and breathtaking views over the town, the fjord, and the surrounding mountains. A well-marked and maintained network of trails weaves around the hill, making it easy to explore the area. There’s also a toilet available at the summit.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Walk
Location: Nord-Trøndelag
Type: Easy hike
Distance: 4.5 km
Duration: Approx. 2 hours
Route: Circular
Elevation gain: 241 metres total
Season: All year round
Trollstien up – Ainnervein down?
Oftenåsen, with its iconic Peilehytta cabin, is a popular hiking destination in Steinkjer. At the summit, Peilehytta offers refreshments (Sundays 11:00–15:00) and stunning views over Steinkjer town, the fjord, Ogndalen valley, and southwards towards Lake Leksdalsvatnet, with Hermannssnasa mountain rising in the background.
The area features a well-developed and clearly marked trail network. The two main paths to Peilehytta both start at Skotvoldgruva, where you’ll find a car park:
- Trollstien (formerly Tranaleia) runs along the front side of the hill and is the most popular and steepest route. Along the way, you’ll find sculptures of trolls and other fairytale characters – a fun experience for both children and adults!
- Ainnervein takes you up the backside and is a gentler climb.
Once at the top, it’s worth walking the extra few hundred metres to the transmitter for even more panoramic views to the north.
The trail is steep but not long, and no special skills are required. Regular trainers are suitable.
Getting There
By car:
The main access point to Oftenåsen is the car park at Skotvoldgruva, located near Trana farm in Steinkjer.
From Steinkjer town centre, turn off Kongens gate onto road 762 towards Ogndal. After about 400 metres, take a sharp right onto Otto Sverdrups veg. Follow this road as it becomes Tranaskogvegen, continuing past residential areas until you reach the car park on your right.
Free parking available.
Pergårdshalla - 2 km roundtrip
This walk takes you from Gustadhaugen in Stod up to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Steinkjer and Lake Snåsavatnet. The trail is well-prepared from the foot of Pergårdshalla, with steep terrain leading to the top. At the summit, you’ll find a lovely rest area with a large shelter, fire pit, and toilet. The route can be done as a short round trip, with an alternative path for the descent
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Walk
Location: Nord-Trøndelag
Type: Easy hike
Distance: 2.8 km
Duration: Approx. 1 hour
Route: Circular
Elevation gain: 124 metres total
Season: April – October
Persgårdshalla – A Short Summit Hike with Big Views
Persgårdshalla is a short but rewarding hike offering stunning views over Stod, Lake Snåsavatnet and the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Forbord in Stjørdal.
The walk starts from the car park at the top of Gusthagen, signposted from County Road 763. From here, the trail is clearly visible and well-marked. It climbs steadily to the summit of Persgårdshalla, where you’ll find a shelter with a barbecue area, a visitor logbook, and an information board.
The hike can also be done as a circular route, starting from Gusthaugen community centre, where parking is available. From the car park, follow the gravel road back to the county road, cross it, and continue uphill. The trail is easy to follow, well signposted, wide, and although steep in places, it’s very manageable.
Getting There
By car:
From Steinkjer, follow County Road 763 signposted Snåsa/Bølareinen/Stod northwards out of town. Continue through Stod and Binde, past a small grocery shop, through the 50 km/h zone and past the school (approx. 15 km from Steinkjer), into a 70 km/h zone and up a hill. Here, you’ll see a sign for Gusthaugen on the left. Follow the gravel road to the end and park at the community centre.
Free parking available.
The mining trail in Malm - 2.5 km return trip
The Mining Trail in Malm – ‘Malmåra’ – 2.5 km round trip
This scenic cultural and fitness trail begins at Gruvkar’n in the centre of Malm and follows the old mining road. It leads you through a historic landscape filled with mine openings and old foundations, all the way up to Gammelgruva at 150 metres above sea level. The descent takes you along a zigzag path towards the Shaft Tower at Main Shaft 5. From there, the trail continues along Grunnstollvegen and follows the footpath beside the Ressem River, before returning to the starting point at Gruvkar’n.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Walk
Location: Nord-Trøndelag, Trøndelag region
Type: Moderately challenging hike
Distance: 2.5 km
Duration: Approx. 1 hour
Route: Circular
Elevation gain: 106 metres total
Season: All year round
“The road up to the old mining town,” as the locals in Malm call it.
Please note: The GPS track may be slightly inaccurate. Use your own judgement and navigate using the description, actual signage, trail markings, and terrain.
The walk begins at Gruvkarn (the statue by the car park) next to Coop Prix in Malm. Cross the bridge, turn right and head uphill through “Tigerbyen.” Follow the sign to Malmogruva, 800 metres from the car park, past a few houses until you see a red and a grey house on either side of the road. Follow the arrow sign. It may feel like a private road and garden, but you’ll soon see the forest and the trail heading uphill.
Follow the wide and clearly visible trail upwards. You’re now on the old road to the mines. It’s a steep climb to the shelter, where you’ll find a visitor logbook, benches, and a table.
From here, you can choose to continue up to Nygruva, just 400 metres further uphill – also steep. Along the way, you may spot small remnants of the old mining operations. There’s another logbook at the top near Nygruva.
Return to the shelter and follow the old mining road downhill to the mining town. It’s a magical sight to see the mine tower rising into the sky and the old miners’ houses along the path. Take your time to explore and soak in the history.
After passing through the mining town, follow the river back to Gruvkarn and Coop Prix.
Enjoy your walk! 😊
Getting There
By car:
From Steinkjer, follow the E6 north to Asphaugen. Turn left onto County Road 17 and continue until you cross the Beistadsund Bridge. Turn left towards Malm via County Road 720. Please note there are toll stations on the way to Malm.
Park at Coop Prix in Malm.
Norway's geographical midpoint - 19 km return trip
Norway’s Geographical Midpoint – 19 km round trip
This walk takes you along a sleeper trail through varied Trønder mountain terrain, with beautiful views of the Skjæker Mountains in the Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park. The trail climbs gently, making it a relatively easy and enjoyable hike. It’s also an ideal starting point for a multi-day adventure, with several overnight options available in the Skjækra area.
Steinkjer Municipal Forests and the Snåsa Mountain Council also have cabins in the area, which can easily be rented through inatur.no
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Hike
Location: Nord-Trøndelag, Skjækra region
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9.6 km (one way)
Duration: Approx. 3 hours (one way)
Elevation gain: 216 metres total
Season: June – November
Route type: Point-to-point (A to B)
⚠️ This hike passes through a protected nature reserve!
Nature reserves may have specific rules and regulations. Please familiarise yourself with the guidelines for the area you are visiting.
*Read more below
Dry-footed in the Skjæker Mountains
The hike begins at the car park by Lustadvatnet. From there, follow the marked trail with wooden sleepers leading to “Midtpunktet” – the geographical centre of Norway.
This route is suitable for both summer and winter hikes.
It’s approximately 10 km one way, and in dry conditions, it’s ideal for walking in trainers. The total round-trip distance is around 20 km. The trail traverses varied mountain terrain typical of Trøndelag, offering views of the beautiful Skjækerfjella mountains, located within the Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park.
The hike takes about 3 hours each way.
At Midtpunktet, there’s a lean-to shelter that makes a great spot for a lunch break. Firewood is available and free to use. After a good rest, begin the return journey. On the way back, you’ll be treated to scenic views over Lustadvatnet.
The trail is gently ascending and easy to walk, making it well-suited for a day trip.
This hike is also an excellent starting point for multi-day trips, with several overnight options near Midtpunktet.
Norway’s Geographical Centre
The geographical centre of Norway was established by the Norwegian Mapping Authority as the country’s centre of gravity. It is located in Steinkjer municipality. To calculate this point, the total mainland area of Norway is considered, including islands (excluding Svalbard and Jan Mayen). Imagine cutting out a map of Norway along its borders and coastlines, with islands attached by weightless bridges, and then balancing it on a pin – that’s where the centre lies.
Getting There
By car:
Follow Ogndalsveien (County Road 762) from Steinkjer town centre, heading east into Ogndal for about 40 km. After passing Gaulstad and the turnoff to Mokk Gård, it’s just a few more kilometres to the car park, which has a large information board.
Note: Parking fees apply and can be paid via mobile phone.
*Access and Conduct in Protected Areas
What we love, we must also protect! Norway is home to over 3,000 protected areas – landscapes and ecosystems preserved to safeguard species, habitats, and natural heritage.
The Right to Roam is a free public right that allows you to move freely in nature. With this right comes a responsibility to act with care and consideration. In protected areas, additional rules may apply:
-
Campfires: The general fire ban from 15 April to 15 September also applies in protected areas.
-
Birds and Wildlife: Be especially mindful of birds and animals during spring and early summer. This is nesting and breeding season, and wildlife is particularly vulnerable to disturbance.
-
Leash Laws: Dogs must be kept on a lead nationwide from 1 April to 20 August. In many areas, extended leash requirements apply beyond this period due to grazing livestock.
-
Cycling: Cycling is only permitted on designated paths and roads within protected areas. E-bikes are considered motorised vehicles and are generally not allowed.
-
Plants: In many protected areas, all plants are protected. However, picking berries and mushrooms for personal use is still permitted.
-
Trees: It is strictly forbidden to cut or break branches or trees, whether alive or dead.
-
Drones: Drone use is prohibited in many protected areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
-
Motorised Transport: Motorised travel is generally prohibited.
-
Organised Tours: If you plan to arrange a guided or organised tour, check with the managing authority to see if a permit is required.
Follaheia – 6 km return trip
Follaheia – 6 km round trip
Towering above Follafoss in Steinkjer, Follaheia offers breathtaking views across the entire Innherred region. The trail climbs steeply through forest before reaching open mountain terrain, but it’s well-prepared with stone steps and boardwalks. A lovely hike that’s suitable for the whole family.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Hike
Location: Nord-Trøndelag, Trøndelag region
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.1 km (round trip)
Duration: Approx. 2 hours
Elevation gain: 504 metres total
Season: May – September
Route type: Out-and-back (same trail both ways)
A Summit Hike with a View!
From the top of Follaheia, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views across the entire Innherred region.
The hike begins at a car park located at the upper end of a small residential area in Follafoss. The trail is clearly marked and follows a well-defined path all the way to the summit. At the start of the trail, you’ll pass underneath a pipeline.
Trail and Terrain
The trail passes through forest, marshland, and mountain terrain. It’s quite rooty, and many hikers prefer using trekking poles. Although steep, the path is well-equipped with stairs, boardwalks, ropes, and benches for resting.
The trail is clearly marked (including reflective markers) and easy to follow, but weather conditions can change quickly – so be sure to bring extra clothing and plenty of water.
Note: GPS tracks may differ slightly from the actual trail.
Round trip from Mokk Farm - 16.9 km
Mountain Hike to Gruvfjellet from Mokk Farm
Begin your adventure at Mokk Farm and follow the well-marked DNT trail on a circular route through varied landscapes, with beautiful views towards the Skjæker Mountains. The trail is steep at first as you ascend to the old mines, but soon levels out into easier terrain. Enjoy the stunning scenery as you descend through Damtjønndalen, before joining the gravel road that leads you back to the farm. A wonderful full-day hike – with limited mobile coverage along the way!
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Hike
Location: Nord-Trøndelag, Skjækra region
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 16.9 km (circular route)
Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Elevation gain: 477 metres total
Season: May – November
Route type: Circular
⚠️ This hike passes through a protected nature reserve!
Protected areas may have specific rules and restrictions. Please familiarise yourself with the regulations that apply to the area you are visiting.
*Read more below
A Scenic Mountain Circuit
The hike begins at the car park at Mokk Gård. Follow the signs towards Gruvfjellet. This is a rewarding mountain hike along a well-marked DNT trail that loops back to Mokk Gård. It’s a circular route I highly recommend – a full-day hike through varied terrain with views of the Skjækerfjella mountains.
The trail starts with a steep ascent up to the old mines, but then levels out into easier terrain. The path is clear and well-maintained throughout. From Rabban, the trail descends into the peaceful Damtjønndalen valley, where you can let your thoughts wander until you reach the gravel road.
Mobile coverage is patchy, but available in some areas – useful for those who want to stay connected while in the mountains.
This is a beautiful hike 😊
*Access and Conduct in Protected Areas
What we love, we must also protect! Norway is home to over 3,000 protected areas – landscapes and ecosystems preserved to safeguard species, habitats, and natural heritage.
The Right to Roam is a free public right that allows you to move freely in nature. With this right comes a responsibility to act with care and consideration. In protected areas, additional rules may apply:
-
Campfires: The general fire ban from 15 April to 15 September also applies in protected areas.
-
Birds and Wildlife: Be especially mindful of birds and animals during spring and early summer. This is nesting and breeding season, and wildlife is particularly vulnerable to disturbance.
-
Leash Laws: Dogs must be kept on a lead nationwide from 1 April to 20 August. In many areas, extended leash requirements apply beyond this period due to grazing livestock.
-
Cycling: Cycling is only permitted on designated paths and roads within protected areas. E-bikes are considered motorised vehicles and are generally not allowed.
-
Plants: In many protected areas, all plants are protected. However, picking berries and mushrooms for personal use is still permitted.
-
Trees: It is strictly forbidden to cut or break branches or trees, whether alive or dead.
-
Drones: Drone use is prohibited in many protected areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
-
Motorised Transport: Motorised travel is generally prohibited.
-
Organised Tours: If you plan to arrange a guided or organised tour, check with the managing authority to see if a permit is required.
Elnanslottet bygdeborg – 5,8 km tur/retur
A hike to one of Trøndelag’s best-preserved hillforts!
Tucked away at the end of Elnandalen, by the Beitstadfjord in Sør-Beitstad, you’ll find a remarkable old hillfort, easily reached via a well-marked 5.8 km round-trip trail. The route takes you through charming, peaceful countryside, and at the top, you can explore the remains of the fort while soaking in stunning views over the Beitstadfjord and the valley below. The walk begins at Øystre Elnangård, following a gravel road before turning into a footpath.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Hike
Location: Nord-Trøndelag, Trøndelag region
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.0 km (round trip)
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
Elevation gain: 127 metres total
Season: March – October
Route type: Out-and-back (same trail both ways)
A Hidden Hillfort in Elnandalen
At the far end of Elnandalen, by Beitstadfjorden in Sør-Beitstad (Steinkjer municipality), lies what may be Trøndelag’s best-preserved hillfort. The cliff drops steeply on three sides, making the summit accessible only from the northeast.
The marked trail is approximately 5.8 km round trip and takes about 1.5 hours to walk. The hike begins at Øystre Elnangård, following a gravel road inward. Sheep may be grazing in the area at times. Continue along the road for about 2 km, where it transitions into a trail. Follow the signs leading up to the top.
At the summit, you’ll find the remains of the hillfort, now visible as large stone mounds. There is an information board explaining the site’s history. The view from the top is well worth the effort – offering a beautiful panorama southward down the valley and across Beitstadfjorden.
Getting There
By car:
From Steinkjer town centre, drive north on the E6. Take the exit towards Egge at the roundabout just after the Egge Tunnel, then turn right towards Sør-Beitstad. Drive 9 km until you see the Elnan farms on your right. Turn right and drive past the second farm, Øystre Elnan. There is no designated parking, but you may park behind the barn – just make sure not to block access for farm operations.
Kvitgeita in Lovika, Sparbu - 6,2 km tur/retur
Kvitgeita in Lorvika offers a breathtaking view over Børgin and the surrounding areas!
From the summit, you can see all the way to Røra, Verdal, Levanger, Skogn, Ytterøy, and Straumen, as well as several distant mountain peaks. This is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy stunning landscapes and panoramic views.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
From the parking, the path to Kvitgeita starts by following the access road through the cabin area. The trail then enters the forest and leads up a beautiful stone staircase, eventually joining a tractor track that takes you to the summit.
Along the tractor track, you’ll see a sign for the plant “Tysbast” (Daphne mezereum). This is a highly poisonous plant, so it’s wise to keep your distance.
About the Hike
Location: Nord-Trøndelag, Trøndelag region
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6.2 km (round trip)
Duration: 45 minutes
Elevation gain: 493 metres total
Season: All year
Route type: Out-and-back (same trail both ways)
Getting There by Car
In Sparbu centre, turn onto Lorvikvegen (6948). Follow Lorvikvegen for 6.5 km until you see a yellow garage on the right-hand side of the road. Parking for the trail is up the hill to the left.
You can also park your car at the farm Vestigården, by the Fuglekassehytta. It is then a few minutes to walk to the start.
The riverside promenade - 1.7 km round trip
Walk along the river (Elvepromenaden) in the Reconstructed Town of Steinkjer!
Start at the town square, and follow the well-maintained riverside promenade from Rismelen Activity Park, heading towards Guldbergaunet. For a lovely circular route, cross Håkkådalsbrua and follow the river back to Holmen by Steinkjerelva. Here, you can enjoy the view back towards the square, or continue along the river to Bystranda.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Hike
Location: Nord-Trøndelag, Trøndelag region
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.8 km (circular route)
Duration: 30 minutes
Elevation gain: 13 metres total
Season: All year
Route type: Circular
Walk Along the River in Steinkjer’s Reconstructed Town
In the centre of Steinkjer, a well-maintained gravel path runs from the town square by the church, following the river past Rismelen Activity Park towards Guldbergaunet. For a circular walk back to the centre, it’s recommended to cross the Håkkådals Bridge and return along the opposite side of the river, finishing at Holmen in the Steinkjer River.
The riverside promenade starts in Rismelen Activity Park, behind the Community Centre. Cross the square on the north side of the church and head down the path behind the Community Centre. Continue along the river through the activity park.
Cross the river via the bridge and follow the gravel road and path along the river all the way down to Holmen. From here, you can look back at the square where your walk began. If you wish, you can continue along the river to Bystranda.
Getting There
By car:
The easiest option is to park in the centre of Steinkjer and start your walk from there. One hour of free parking is available in the centre, or you can use one of the many paid parking areas.
From the train station:
Follow the footpath that goes under the railway line, then continue straight along Svein Jarls gate. Turn into Kongens Gate and follow it to the town square.
Svarttjønna recreational area – 9.2 km return
A Popular Destination
This scenic forest walk leads to Svarttjønna, a peaceful lake near Byasendern, with a nearby cabin (Svartjønnbua) and well-developed rest areas. The gravel path is mostly pram-friendly, with shelters, benches, and barbecue spots along the way. You can extend the hike to the top of Byasendern or take a steeper, shorter route via By farm.
Open cabin serving coffee and waffles every Sunday.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Walk
Location: Nord-Trøndelag
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9.2 km (return)
Duration: Approx. 3 hours
Elevation gain: 216 metres
Season: All year round
Svarttjønna is a hidden gem nestled in the forest, not far from Byasendern, where the Nord-Trøndelag Tourist Association has its local cabin. Svartjønnbua is located just west of the lake.
A Popular Destination
The area west of Svarttjønna, around Svartjønnbua, has been developed into a well-loved and accessible outdoor spot for both summer and winter activities. You’ll find shelters, barbecue areas, benches, walking paths and more.
From Svarttjønna, you can continue along the gravel road and reach the top of Byasendern.
The route is mostly gravelled, with the exception of a short stretch between two roads. It is still fully accessible for prams.
Alternatively, the walk can be taken via Byahalla from By Farm – this route is steeper but slightly shorter.
Getting There
By car:
Follow the E6 through the tunnel north of Steinkjer. At the roundabout after the tunnel, turn left, then left again, and once more to the left. Finally, turn right towards the ski stadium. Parking is available for a fee.
Oftenåsen via Songleia - 9,5 km return
Discover Oftenåsen the gentle way – via Songleia
Escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful ascent to Steinkjer’s iconic summit. The Songleia trail offers a longer but gentler route to Oftenåsen, perfect for families and those seeking a more relaxed hike. With a gravelled path suitable for prams and young walkers, this 9.5 km hike takes you through quiet woodland and scenic terrain, culminating at the panoramic viewpoint by Peilehytta. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this lesser-known trail is a delightful alternative for reaching the top.
It is 9.5 km returning the same way. However, you can choose to take a shorter trail down, making the hike shorter, but steeper.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the walk
Area: Nord-Trøndelag
Moderately challenging hike
Distance: 9.5 km
Duration: 3 hours
Out-and-back route
Total elevation gain: 295 metres
Season: March – December
The gentlest route to the summit!
Although the destination is the same (Oftenåsen), the walk takes on a different character if you choose the Songleia trail to Oftenåsen.
Songleia is longer, gentler, and less frequented. The path is gravelled and runs along the back side of the hill. It’s perfectly suitable for pushing a pram or letting small children walk on their own.
From the car park at Skotvoldgruva, follow the trail marked Songleia, Oftenåsen to the left until you reach the Kittilmyr junction, where the path turns sharply to the right. Once you reach Rannemvegen, follow it to the right up to Peilehytta.
Once at the summit, you can choose which route to take back down.
How to get there
Arriving by car
The main access point to Oftenåsen is the car park at Skotvoldgruva, located within Trana farm in Steinkjer.
To reach the car park from Steinkjer town centre, turn off Kongens gate onto national road 762 towards Ogndal. After about 400 metres, take a sharp right turn onto Otto Sverdrups veg.
Follow this road until it becomes Tranaskogvegen. Continue straight ahead past the residential areas until you see the car park on your right-hand side.
Free parking.
Marsteinsvola from Sparbu - 3.6 km return
Hike to Marsteinsvola – a scenic summit at the heart of Innherred
Explore one of Innherreds’s finest viewpoints with this moderately challenging hike to Marsteinsvola from Sparbu. Located at the border between Verdal, Inderøy and Sparbu, the summit offers sweeping views across the Innherred region. The 1.8 km trail climbs 204 metres and takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes one way.
Read the trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with zoomable map – see translation below)
About the Hike
Location: Nord-Trøndelag, Trøndelag region
Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Distance: 1.8 km (one way / 3.6 km return)
Duration: 1 hr 40 minutes one way
Elevation gain: 204 metres total
Season: April – October
Marsteinsvola
GPS coordinates: 63°51’40″N, 011°31’27″E
Map sheet: 1722-4 Stiklestad. Elevation: 442 metres above sea level.
The summit lies on the border between Verdal, Inderøy and Sparbu, offering stunning views across much of the Innherred region. This is one of six marked hikes to viewpoints in Sparbu, maintained by the local sports club Sparbu IL. A trail map showing routes from Røra and Verdal is displayed at the car park by Stubbsetertjønna, where you can choose between several marked trails in Volhaugen, including the summit hike to Marsteinsvola.
Since 2020, Sparbu IL has used the app Gjesteboka for digital registration of visits to the hiking posts. If you don’t have the app, you can write your name, date, and number of visits in a form available for download or from the hiking group. Sparbu IL is responsible for trail marking, agreements with landowners, and maintenance of paths and installations at the hiking posts, in accordance with the national marking handbook.
How to get there
Arriving by car
Turn off county road F6950 at Rognhøgda in Sparbu and follow Dyrstadvegen to the toll road leading to the car park at Stubbsetertjønna. It’s also a pleasant bike ride from anywhere in Sparbu, and cycling allows you to avoid the toll fee. Please note that the toll road to Stubbsetertjønna is not ploughed during winter.
Guided tours in Steinkjer
Innherred offers many beautiful hiking opportunities, but not all routes are suitable for everyone. Through the Godt Tilgjengelig project, Bedriftsidretten, in collaboration with FFO Trøndelag, the Norwegian Disability Federation, Trøndelag County Municipality, and local volunteers, has developed ten accessible trails in the Innherred region, with two located in Steinkjer municipality. Look for the symbol with the accessibility sign – this marks trails that are easy to navigate for all.
These trails feature detailed information both on signage and digitally, including details about elevation, terrain, parking options, accessible toilets, signage, rest areas, and more. Click on the trails below to learn more.
Symbol – godt tilrettelagte turer
Read more/translation - Bedringens Vei
Bedringens vei – an Accessible Trail
Bedringens vei is a gentle trail around Oftenåsen, designed to be accessible for prams, wheelchairs, and walking aids. The trail leads to Storaunet (1.3 km from the car park) and continues to Kittilmyrkrysset (a further 700 metres). It is gently undulating, well signposted, and 2 km one way. The path has a compact surface and is about 1.2 metres wide. Along the route, there are many rest areas and some wider passing places. The route is clearly marked.
From Kittilmyrkrysset onwards towards Oftenåsen on Sognleia, it is possible to use a wheelchair, but the path becomes steeper. The final stretch to the top of Oftenåsen, along Rannemsbakken, is very steep. The Peilehytta cabin at the summit, and its toilets, are accessible to all. There is also a charging point for electric wheelchairs at the top. In winter, the trail network is not cleared of snow, but tracks are usually present. There is no lighting along the trail.
How to get there:
From Steinkjer town square, drive through Kongensgata and turn left onto Ogndalsvegen. Drive 600 metres and turn right into Otto Sverdrups vei. Follow this road for 2.5 km until you reach the car park on the right. There is also disabled parking available here. (Address for GPS: Tranaskogvegen 57, Steinkjer).
Read more/translation - Føllingstien
Føllingstien – an Accessible Trail
Føllingstien is a beautiful walk suitable for everyone. Here, you’re surrounded by nature, with cloudberries along the path and the gentle sound and sight of a flowing river. The trail is adapted for prams, wheelchairs, and walking aids.
There are two starting points: at Lømsen and by the football pitch in Følling. Between these two points, the Føllingstien trail stretches for 4.7 kilometres. If you start from the football pitch at Føllingstua Camping, you begin along the pedestrian and cycle path for about 800 metres northwards before passing under the E6 via a tunnel. Here, you join the newest section of the trail. From here, the surface is gravel and crushed stone, the path is over a metre wide, and the route is almost completely flat. You’ll cross several bridges and streams, and in midsummer, you may encounter grazing cattle. Along the trail, there are four lean-tos and several benches for resting. The path narrows in some places, and grass may grow up through the surface in season. When you reach Lømsen, there is a nice bathing spot. There is a toilet at the Lømsen car park, but it is not wheelchair accessible, though it is open around the clock. At the football pitch starting point by Føllingstua, there is an accessible toilet in the clubhouse (not open 24/7). Føllingstien is not cleared of snow in winter and is not lit. You can also make the walk a circular route by returning along the pavement beside the E6.
How to get there:
The trail has two starting points. From Steinkjer town centre, take the E6 north through the Egge Tunnel. From the roundabout after the tunnel, continue for 11.7 km and turn right to Føllingstua Camping, parking at the football pitch clubhouse (GPS address: Haugåshalla 2). The walk can also start at Lømsen: drive 9.7 km from the roundabout after the tunnel, then turn left. Park after 150 metres on the left at Lømsen (GPS: 64.105314, 11.538945).
Fitness stairs in Steinkjer Municipality
More about Oftenåsentrappa fitness staircase
The Staircase (Oftenåsentrappa) to Oftenåsen
The staircase begins at Trollstien, at the junction with Siste utvei, and ends at the summit of Oftenåsen, by the Peilehytta cabin and the World’s Largest Garden Chair. When you reach the top, you will have climbed 190 metres and conquered 327 steps, built by the contractor FuglesangDahl from Steinkjer. The fitness staircase was made possible thanks to significant local effort, with volunteer work and contributions from individuals and businesses. SpareBank 1 SMN, together with FuglesangDahl, are the main sponsors.
Along the way, you can pause to catch your breath and read the signs showing who contributed to the project. Without the landowners, the Oftenåsens Venner association would not have been able to realise this project. The staircase was officially opened on 14 June 2025.
More about the fitness staircase in Rismelen
Fitness Staircase in Rismelen Activity Park, Steinkjer town Centre
Located right in the heart of Steinkjer, this fitness staircase is perfect for a quick workout, and can easily be combined with the exercise equipment further down the park, behind the community centre, or a peaceful walk along the river and fjord.
Parking:
Public parking available parallel to Rismelen.
https://ut.no/turforslag/1112178944/rismelen-trimtrapp-pa-aktivitetsparken-i-steinkjer
More about Kvamsåstrappa fitness staircase in Kvam
Inntrøndelag’s Longest Fitness Staircase
This impressive fitness staircase features a total of 9 flights and over 324 steps, with a height difference of around 80 meters from bottom to top. Around 5,000 screws were used in its construction, and countless volunteer hours were dedicated to its creation. At the top, you’ll find a cozy shelter with a fire pit, and you can enjoy stunning views of the southern part of Snåsavatnet, the villages of Stod and Kvam, and even catch a glimpse of Oftenåsen near Steinkjer.
Parking:
Available at Kvam Church and Coop Marked.
https://ut.no/turforslag/1112178933/kvamsastrappen-pa-kvam-i-steinkjer
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