Canoeing in the river Ogna. Photo: Dina Rindsem v/Explorative AS
Ogndal – the gateway to the Skjækra mountains
The soul and history of Innherred are vibrantly present in modern society. Take the time to immerse yourself in the past and understand the roots that have shaped the present. Innherred’s culture is a tapestry of history, art and flavour, woven together by people who are proud of their heritage and eager to share it with the world.
The Wilderness Valley of Ogndalen, east of Steinkjer, offers vast forest and mountain landscapes that invite both adventure and tranquillity.
Here you can paddle a canoe on the Ogna River, cycle along idyllic gravel roads, go hiking in the mountains, forage for mushrooms or keep an eye out for elk.
At the far end of Ogndalen lies Skjækra with Norways geographical midpoint – the gateway to Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park – with excellent hiking terrain, T-marked trails and several rental cabins for those who want to get close to nature.
Accommodation
Mokk Gård
Mokk farm is a fantastic starting point for mountain hikes and unforgettable nature experiences in Skjækra and Ogndal – whether on foot or by bike. Beautifully located at the foot of the highlands, it offers accommodation in charming old houses steeped in history.
From here, you can access marked trails to Norways Geographical Midpoint, into Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park, scenic fishing lakes, cycling routes and winter ski tracks.
The farm also offers guided cave and mine tours, as well as guided snowshoe trips in winter. With its peaceful setting, delicious food and hosts who make sure everything is in place for both relaxation and activity, Mokk Farm is the perfect base for those who want to get close to nature – all year round.
Looking for a complete experience for a larger group? Mokk is the ideal place!
Mokk Farm. Photo: Hanen
Lågvassbu cabin
Experience the mountain adventure all year round with Steinkjer Kommuneskoger
Steinkjer Municipal Forests offer three rental mountain cabins in the area, giving you the chance to experience nature up close, whatever the season.
– Lustadstua is beautifully location by the shores of Lake Lustad and is accessible by car.
– Lågvassbua and Skjækerosstua are located deeper in the Skjækra mountains. Both cabins are reached by well-marked trails and are about 10 kilometres from the nearest road.
Each cabin is fully equipped and includes access to a boat and fishing nets – and best of all, fishing is free!
Cave tour at Mokk Farm Innherred’s most intense nature experience!
– Underground
Step into the caves at Mokk and feel the adrenaline rush as you scramble and climb through cascading water – deep beneath the mountain!
Canoeing on the river Ogna
Steinkjer Municipal Forests (Ogndalsbruket KF) have over 10 canoes available for hire. Unless otherwise agreed, you collect your canoe at Hyllbrua and finish at Støa.
About the Ogna River
Ogna has only a 3-metre drop in elevation between Hyllbrua and Støa, so it meanders gently through the landscape with plenty of bends and cut-outs. Along the way, you’ll pass small islands. There are several designated fire pits along the banks, and we kindly ask you to use these for your breaks.
There are floating docks and facilities for launching canoes at Hyllbrua and Storbekken. You’ll feel as if you’re gliding across the water. In spring, birdlife is abundant, and we recommend a detour into Mytla, a small tributary. Here, both adults and especially children will enjoy a wonderful experience as nature comes right up to the canoe – almost like a mini-expedition in itself.
The river Ogna
Photo: Steinkjer kommuneskoger – on the way to Norways geographical midpoint
Hiking suggestions in Ogndal
The hosts at Mokk offer guided tours to the old copper mines and limestone caves in the mountains just behind the farm. With their deep knowledge of the area, they’re always happy to share tips and advice on great hikes nearby.
A full overview of hiking destinations in Ogndal can be found in the map “Norges midtpunkt” – available at the tourist office and soon in our online shop.
From the Verdal side, visitors can hike or cycle to Malså Mines and continue on to Mokk – a scenic and varied route through beautiful terrain.
Hiking routes in Ogndal
Use Mokk Gård as your base, and set off on adventures short or long – right in the realm of bears and elk.
Norges geografiske midtpunkt – 19 km tur/retur
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.
The Skjæker triangle – 19.1 km
Skjæker Triangle – 19.1 km
Lustadvatnet via Lågvassbua to Gaulstad
Whether you prefer hiking solo or with family and friends, an overnight trip to Skjækra offers wonderful nature experiences. Steinkjer Municipal Forests Ogndalsbruket have cabins for hire at the gateway to Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park and Norway’s Geographical Centre. The cabins are well located with access to fishing lakes and hiking trails right outside the door. Don’t miss a detour to the Mette-Marit Stone!
Access: From Steinkjer town centre, it’s 40 km to Mokk Farm, which offers accommodation for individuals and catering for groups. Drive along County Road 762 up Ogndalen towards Gaulstad.
Route Description
The Skjæker Triangle takes you from the cultural landscape around Mokk Farm into magnificent mountain terrain. Adults and especially children will love this experience. From Mokk Farm, the trail climbs through forest past the old mines in Gruvfjellet.
Here the terrain opens up, and the view towards the Skjæker mountain massif becomes more impressive as you approach Lågvatnet. Here you’ll find the restored shepherd’s hut Lågvassbua by the lake – a truly idyllic spot.
The next day, continue to Skjækerosstua at the outlet of Skjækervatnet, where you’ll also find the Mette-Marit Stone (on the south side of an old dam at the lake’s outlet), marking the transition into Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park.
Stages:
- Mokk – Lågvassbua: 10 km
- Lågvassbua – Skjækerosstua: 4 km
- Skjækerosstua – Mokk: 11 km
Optional detour: Norway’s Geographical Centre
Along the way, we recommend a stop at Stortjønna, a great fishing lake. The river flowing from Stortjønna winds through the landscape and into Langtjønnene, idyllic fishing spots.
Remember to bring a map and compass / GPS.
Find a detailed route description on Ut.no. (in Norwegian with zoomable map)
Here’s a link to a description of a slightly longer 3-day trip on Ut.no. (in Norwegian)
Roundtrip 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.
Mokkarunden – 7.3 km roundtrip
The Mokkarunden Loop – a gentle and scenic 7.3 km walk
Looking for an easy, pleasant circular walk? The Mokka Loop takes you through varied terrain with gravel tracks, boardwalks and quiet woodland – perfect for families, walkers and even joggers. Starting at Mokk Farm, the route offers lovely nature experiences, views over Lake Mokka and an accessible section suitable for wheelchairs and prams. A refreshing walk that offers both fresh air and peace of mind.
“Mokkarunden” from Mokk Farm — Naustbukta and Langenget
About the hike
- Region: Nord-Trøndelag
- Difficulty: Moderately challenging
- Distance: 7.3 km
- Duration: 2 hours
- Type: Circular route
- Total elevation gain: 128 metres
- Season: All year round
Looking for a pleasant and easy circular walk?
You start from Mokk Farm on a gravel road with a short, steep incline to get your pulse going. After about 2 km, you’ll reach a car park and notice lots of wheelbarrows by the roadside. Turn right and follow the sleeper-laid path to Naustmyra by Mokkavatnet, where you’ll see many boathouses and boats along the water.
Continue on a wide sleeper-laid path, which is also accessible for wheelchairs and prams (if starting from Langenget, where there are also wheelbarrows, you’ll do the route in reverse). This is an easy walk suitable for everyone.
Follow the wide path through the forest until you reach a gravel road, then continue along Langenget, past a sawmill, and turn right to follow the gravel road back to Mokk Farm.
You can do this walk in trainers – it’s also a great route for jogging if you fancy it!
Access by car:
It takes about 46 minutes (38.8 km) to drive along Ogndalsvegen, County Road 762 east from Steinkjer town centre. Follow signs for Norway’s Geographical Centre and Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park from the E6. Turn right towards Mokk after about 30 km. There is a parking charge.
Mokk - Gruvfjellet - Litl Gaulstad – 3.6 km one way
Mokk via Gruvfjellet to Litl-Gaulstad – 7.2 km return
Park at Mokk Farm (parking fee applies). The trail is marked from the car park.
From the farm, follow the same path used by miners 240 years ago. The route climbs steadily for 2 km up to Gruvfjellet.
Here you can admire the stunning view from the mine opening before continuing to Litl-Gaulstad. The descent from Gruvfjellet to Litl-Gaulstad is a little steep.
Alternatively, you can park and start the hike from Litl-Gaulstad. Follow the trail marked by the Norwegian Trekking Association.
By car from Steinkjer town centre:
Drive east through Ogndal. It’s about 37.5 km from Ogndal junction (Kongens gate) to parking at Mokk Farm, or approx. 35 km to the small car park at Litl-Gaulstad.
Find route description on Ut.no. (in Norwegian, with zoomable map)
Caving with Mokk farm 6.7 km
Cave Exploration in Skjækerfjella – Guided Cave Tour with Mokk Farm
Guided cave tours are for groups and must be booked in advance. When Mokk Farm has available spots on scheduled tours, they announce it on Facebook.
You’ll be provided with a wetsuit, rain gear and a helmet with a light. After an introduction to the fascinating geology and challenges of the caves, you’ll head underground as daylight fades. In the Jettegryte Cave, you follow a streambed 250 metres into the mountain. Here you can experience stalactites, potholes and stunning colours and formations.
Once outside, the adventure continues through waterfalls and pools to the next cave. You follow the river upstream into a cavern, and after squeezing through a passage where the ceiling almost touches the water, you enter a vast mountain hall. In complete darkness, a 17-metre waterfall thunders down into an underground lake. The bravest take the plunge into the water alongside the waterfall!
Practical information:
- Duration: approx. 3–4 hours
- Max group size: 8 people
- Package includes: guide, equipment hire and light refreshments
Contact Visit Innherred for prices: post@visitinnherred.com
Mine Tour
Just a 30-minute walk from Mokk Farm lies an old mining site dating back to the 1770s. Join an exciting tour where your hosts share stories about the mines along the way.
From the farm, you follow the same path used by miners 240 years ago. You’ll gain a historical insight into the hardships and challenges of the time and how mining was carried out. The trail climbs steadily for 2 km up to Gruvfjellet. Here you’ll enjoy a refreshment before climbing up to one of the mine openings. With torches, you explore the shafts that have remained untouched since the mining era. The tunnels show clear traces of the hard manual labour, and you’ll see the colourful oxidised copper.
After admiring the stunning view from the mine opening, you head back down to the farm.
Duration: Half a day
Guides can be booked through Mokk Farm. Contact Visit Innherred for a non-binding offer: post@visitinnherred.com
Find detailed route descriptions on Ut.no
Hike description on ut.no (in Norwegian but with a zoomable map)
Cycling routes in Ogndal
The wilderness route
Cycling the inland/wilderness route from (Grong) / Snåsa – Steinkjer (Mokk) – Verdal
Route description (Inland Route Snåsa to Verdal) on Ut.no (in Norwegian, with zoomable map)
This cycling tour takes you through magnificent scenery along the edge of Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park, crossing Snåsa, Steinkjer and Verdal. The marked route is 49 km, but can be extended to 100 km by starting at Jørstad and finishing at Verdal Station.
The tour offers miles of scenic gravel roads, two well-signposted push sections, several fishing lakes and good overnight options along the way. The route can be cycled in stages or in one go, and is perfect for those who want to experience wilderness nature from the saddle.
The wilderness route from Grong to Verdal
Visit Innherred / Explorative AS can also tailor your cycling trip with bike hire, accommodation bookings and meals, including detailed route descriptions. Check out the link above.
Andorvatnet from Mokk 9.8 km return
Cycle Trip to Andorvatnet from Mokk Farm
Park at Mokk Farm (parking fee applies). This is an easy and accessible trip for everyone, with a gravel road leading all the way to Andorvatnet. You can also drive there by car.
Facilities at Andorvatnet include toilets, a shelter, and the option to borrow a boat from Steinkjer Municipal Forests.
By car from Steinkjer town centre:
Drive east through Ogndal – approx. 37.5 km from the Ogndal junction (Kongens gate) to parking at Mokk Farm.
Route description on ut.no (in Norwegian, with a zoomable map)
Ski trip to Badstubekkvola 8.4 km return
The hiking areas around Mokk Farm offer a quick route up to the bare mountain plateau – just 2.5 km of ascent before you find yourself in open terrain with stunning views. From here, you can choose between short, family-friendly ski trip or longer treks into Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park.
Badstubekkvola, Midterklumpen, and Litlklumpen are easily accessible peaks that can be reached within a few hours, and the area is just as suitable for hiking as it is for skiing.
Trip description on ut.no (in Norwegian with a zoomable map)
Ski Trip to Badstubekkvola from Mokk Farm
- Distance: 8.4 km round trip
- Duration: approx. 6 hours
- Elevation gain: 366 m
- Season: the ski trip (in winter), but you can also hike on foot
Description:
From Mokk Farm, the trail climbs steadily through the forest (about 2.5 km) before you reach open terrain with magnificent views. From here, you can choose between three peaks:
- Badstubekkvola (straight ahead)
- Midterklumpen (to the right)
- Litlklumpen (to the left)
All three summits are easily accessible and can be reached within a few hours. The route is suitable for both hiking and skiing.
Access:
From Steinkjer town centre, it takes about 46 minutes (38.8 km) via Ogndalsvegen. Parking is available at Mokk Farm (fee approx. NOK 40).
Hunting and fishing
Free fishing in over 50 lakes!
Did you know you can fish completely free of charge in all lakes and rivers (non-salmon rivers) belonging to Steinkjer Kommuneskoger and Ogndalsbruket KF? This applies to both rod fishing and trolling!
If you want to use nets, you’ll need to buy a fishing permit.
In there interactive broshure with map on page 3 and 4 you will find:
- Overview of lakes and rivers
- Nearby cabins
- Shelters
- Canoe and boat rental – and much more!
They can’t promise you’ll get a bite, but they can promise unforgettable nature experiences! Bring your fishing rod and enjoy the tranquillity of the outdoors.
Hunting
Steinkjer Kommuneskoger offers moose hunting and small game hunting in addition to fishing. Combine an overnight stay in the mountain cabins with hunting and fishing, and you’ll have an experience of a lifetime!
At Mokk Farm, they provide special packages for hunters during the hunting season – get in touch for an offer.
Fiske i en av de over 50 gratis fiskevannene i Steinkjer
Trugetur fra Mokk gård
Experience Winter at Its Best – Join a Snowshoe Trip at Mokk Farm!
Snowshoes give you a unique way to enjoy nature, whether you choose a relaxing day trip, an atmospheric twilight walk, or a magical evening outing with a headlamp. No prior experience needed – just pure winter joy in beautiful surroundings at the foot of Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Park.
You can join a guided snowshoe tour or simply hire snowshoes from Mokk Farm and explore the area on your own.