Open Travel Guide
Hiking in Oslo

Oslo Hiking & Trekking Guide 2026

Where to walk in Oslo — from easy half-days to serious treks, with honest difficulty grades.

The short answer: start with Frognerseteren to Ullevålseter Loop, Sognsvann Lake Loop and Holmenkollen to Frognerseteren Ridge Walk. This guide profiles 6+ hiking trails in Oslo, with prices, timing, and the practical notes that decide whether each one earns a place in your plan.

Oslo is the capital and largest city of Norway, situated at the head of the Oslofjord. A dynamic Scandinavian capital blending Viking heritage with state-of-the-art architecture, Oslo offers world-class museums, a vibrant waterfront, lush forests, and some of Europe's finest dining.

Top trails

Routes worth lacing up your boots for.

  1. 1

    Frognerseteren to Ullevålseter Loop

    3-4 hoursEasy-Moderate

    A classic Nordmarka loop from the end of T-bane line 1 through pine forest to the historic Ullevålseter mountain cabin, returning along a different forest path.

  2. 2

    Sognsvann Lake Loop

    1-1.5 hoursEasy

    A gentle, beautiful circular walk around Sognsvann lake in Nordmarka. The lake is also popular for swimming in summer.

  3. 3

    Holmenkollen to Frognerseteren Ridge Walk

    2 hoursEasy-Moderate

    A scenic ridge walk between two T-bane stops through Nordmarka with views over Oslo and the Oslofjord.

  4. 4

    Akerselva River Walk (Full Route)

    2.5-3.5 hoursEasy

    Follow the Akerselva river 8km from the Maridalen valley down through Grünerløkka to the Oslofjord, passing waterfalls, historic mill ruins, and vibrant urban neighbourhoods.

  5. 5

    Ekebergparken Forest Walk

    1.5-2 hoursEasy-Moderate

    A pleasant wooded walk through Ekebergparken combining forest trails with outdoor sculptures by international artists and panoramic views over Oslo and the Oslofjord.

  6. 6

    Grefsenkollen Hill Walk

    2.5-3 hoursModerate

    A hike up to Grefsenkollen (379m) through Grefsen forest with excellent views over Oslo from the hilltop restaurant. Accessible by T-bane.

Trail difficulty levels

Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.

Easy

Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.

Moderate

Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.

Hard

Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.

Expert

Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.

Local hazards

What to watch out for on the trail.

High

Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.

Medium

Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.

Medium

Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.