🚶♂️Express routes near Oslo: 7 one-day tracks
Do you live in Oslo and want to spend the weekend in nature without travelling far from the city? The perfect solution is a day trip to the national parks and scenic natural areas near the Norwegian capital. Just an hour by train or bus, and you'll find picturesque lakes, coniferous forests and panoramic peaks.
We've put together a list of the 7 best routes near Oslo that are perfect for a quick getaway. The article has everything you need: transport schedules, GPX maps, tips on cafés and places to relax after your hike.
Get ready for an unforgettable micro-adventure right on your doorstep!
1. Lake Sognsvann (Sognsvann Rundt)
- 🚆 Transport: Metro No. 5, Sognsvann station (20 minutes from Oslo city centre)
- ⏱️ Time: 1.5–2 hours
- 📏 Length: 3.7 km
- 🔹 Level: Easy
- 🥐 Coffee shops: Anne på Landet at Sognsvann metro station
One of the most popular routes for walking and easy hiking, running along a picturesque trail around the lake. Ideal for families and leisurely strolls.
2. Vettakollen
- 🚆 Transport: Metro No. 1, Vettakollen station (15 minutes from Oslo city centre)
- ⏱️ Time: 2 hours (round trip)
- 📏 Length: 4.5 km
- 🔹 Level: Moderate (slight incline)
- 🥐 Cafés: Frognerseteren Café (Frognerseteren metro station, one stop from Vettakollen)
The summit of Vettakollen offers stunning panoramic views of the Oslo Fjord and the city centre. It's a great option for a quick walk after work or on the weekend.
3. Østensjøvannet (Østensjøvannet rundt)
- 🚌 Transport: Bus No. 70, Skullerud stop (25 minutes from Oslo city centre)
- ⏱️ Time: 2 hours
- 📏 Length: 4 km
- 🔹 Level: Easy
- 🥐 Coffee shops: Skullerudstua near the bus stop
This easy route around Østensjøvannet is a great opportunity to watch birds and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature just half an hour from the city centre.
4. Ring around Lake Nordmarka
- 🚆 Transport: Train Oslo S — Stryken (50 min), return from Kjelsås
- ⏱️ Time: 5–6 hours
- 📏 Length: 15 km
- 🔹 Level: Medium
- 🥐 Coffee shops: Kikutstua Café, located right on the route
A beautiful and rich route through the forests and lakes of Nordmarka, which is suitable for lovers of long walks in nature. An ideal option for an active weekend.
5. Trail to the top of Kolsåstoppen
- 🚆 Transport: Metro No. 3, Kolsås station (30 minutes from Oslo city centre)
- ⏱️ Time: 3 hours
- 📏 Length: 6 km
- 🔹 Level: Medium (steep climb in places)
- 🥐 Coffee shops: Kaffebrenneriet at Kolsås metro station
A route to the famous Kolsås peak with views of the valley and Oslo Fjord. The beautiful view from the top is a great reward for the climb.
6. Maridalsvannet Lake and forest trail
- 🚌 Transport: Bus No. 54 to Maridalen (20 minutes from central Oslo)
- ⏱️ Time: 2.5 hours
- 📏 Length: 7 km
- 🔹 Level: Easy
- 🥐 Coffee shops: Maridalen Landhandel in the village of Maridalen
This peaceful route along Oslo's largest lake is ideal for family walks and wildlife watching.
7. Gaustatoppen from Oslo
- 🚆 Transport: Train from Oslo S to Rjukan (3.5 hours, Oslo Pass recommended), then bus to Gaustatoppen
- ⏱️ Time: 4–5 hours (hike only)
- 📏 Length: 8 km
- 🔹 Level: Medium
- 🥐 Coffee shops: Gaustatoppen Turisthytte at the summit
A route to one of the most beautiful peaks in southern Norway, with a panoramic view of more than 1/6 of the country. A great option for a day trip with an early start.
🚌 How to travel: tickets and Oslo Pass
- Use the Oslo Pass (445 NOK per day), which includes travel on all public transport (metro, bus, train within the city zone), admission to museums and discounts at cafes.
- Book train tickets on the website vy.no. Book in advance to get a discount.
🗺️ GPX route maps
For easy navigation, download ready-made GPX route files to your smartphone via the Komoot or UT.no apps. You will be able to navigate the area with ease and follow the route directly on your phone.
🎒Tips for preparing for a day hike
- Bring small snacks, water and a thermos with a hot drink.
- Always check the weather before you leave on Yr.no.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather — the forests and mountains around Oslo often have changeable weather conditions.
- Don't forget a power bank to recharge your phone, especially if you are using navigation.
These 7 day trips near Oslo are ideal for short hikes and active outdoor recreation when time is limited but you want to see more. Each route is suitable for hikers of all levels, and beautiful cafes and picturesque landscapes will be a pleasant end to the day.
Don't wait for the weekend — grab your backpack, a map and set off for new experiences right now!
The perfect day hikes in Norway await you in the suburbs of Oslo!
