Best Cross Country Skiing Tracks Near Trondheim City in 2026

Trondheim is a stunning city that offers some of the best cross country skiing tracks near Trondheim city in Norway. The local residents love to spend their winter days gliding through the thick forests surrounding the urban area. You will find that the tracks are well-maintained for both classic and skating styles throughout the snowy season. This guide will help you discover the perfect trails for your next winter holiday in this northern gem.

The city combines modern convenience with immediate access to wild nature and ancient woodland trails. Most ski areas are located just a short bus or tram ride from the main city center streets. You can enjoy professional competition tracks or peaceful paths that wind through silent, snow-covered valleys and hills. Start your adventure by checking out our Trondheim winter travel guide for more essential trip planning details.

In 2026, the local authorities have improved the lighting and signage on several major routes for better safety. These improvements make it easier for international visitors to navigate the woods without getting lost in the dark. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, Trondheim has the perfect trail waiting for your arrival this winter. Get ready to experience the true meaning of the Norwegian word for outdoor life, which is friluftsliv.

Bymarka: Best Cross Country Skiing Tracks Near Trondheim

For official information, visit Trondheim travel info.

For the most up-to-date details, check Trondheim travel info before you go.

Bymarka is the largest and most popular forest area for residents and visitors in the city of Trondheim. It offers a diverse range of cross country skiing tracks near Trondheim city for people of all ages. You can easily access the trailheads using the historic Gråkallbanen tram line from the busy city center. The safe winter hiking routes in this area are also very popular during the 2026 winter season.

Most skiers begin their journey at Skistua, which serves as a central hub for the entire forest area. From here, you can choose between short loops or long treks deep into the snowy and quiet wilderness. The trails are clearly marked with color-coded signs to help you navigate the vast and beautiful forest area. You will find that the tracks are regularly flattened by specialized vehicles almost every single day in winter.

For those seeking a challenge, the climb to the top of Storheia provides a very great physical workout. This is the highest point in Bymarka and offers panoramic views of the entire region and the sea. You can see the North Sea on one side and the city on the other side of the peak. The descent back down to the main cabin is thrilling and requires some basic skiing skills and balance.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the trails around Haukvatnet are perfect for families and young children. These tracks are relatively flat and wind through beautiful pine forests and open snowy fields and frozen lakes. Children can safely practice their balance and technique while enjoying the fresh winter air in beautiful Norway. Many families bring portable stoves to enjoy a warm meal along the trailside during their weekend trip.

Practical Details for Bymarka:

• Tram line: Take Line 1 to the Lian station at the edge of the forest.
• Parking: Large lots are available at Skistua, Henriksåsen, and the Smistad trailhead.
• Trail difficulty: Tracks range from green for beginners to black for expert competitive skiers.
• Cabin hours: Skistua is usually open from 10:00 to 16:00 for warm food and drinks.

Estenstadmarka: Family-Friendly Winter Trails

Estenstadmarka is located on the eastern side of the city and is a favorite for local families and students. This area features many cross country skiing tracks near Trondheim city that are perfect for a quick afternoon trip. You can reach the starting points at Bekken or Dragvoll by taking a short local bus ride from town. These winter hiking trails near Trondheim are also well-kept for those who prefer walking over skiing.

The main destination for many skiers in this area is the cozy and traditional Estenstadhytta mountain cabin. This cabin is situated on a hill and provides a wonderful view of the city and the fjord below. You can purchase fresh waffles and hot chocolate to reward yourself after the steady climb up the trail. The atmosphere inside the cabin is warm and welcoming, especially on cold and windy winter days in January.

The terrain in Estenstadmarka is slightly more varied and includes some rolling hills and beautiful forest sections. Most of the tracks are groomed for both classic diagonal stride and the faster skating technique for sportier skiers. You will encounter many local residents who use these trails for their daily exercise after they finish work. It is a great place to experience the local lifestyle while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

In 2026, new maps have been installed at all major trail intersections to help visitors find their way easily. You can also use digital apps to see exactly when each track was last groomed by the maintenance team. This technology ensures that you always find the best snow conditions for your morning or afternoon ski trip. The eastern forest is generally more sheltered from the wind compared to the higher peaks in Bymarka.

Practical Details for Estenstadmarka:

• Bus lines: Take Line 3 or Line 14 to reach the Dragvoll or Bekken areas.
• Track length: Most loops are between 5 and 15 kilometers in total length.
• Best for: Intermediate skiers who enjoy rolling hills and cozy cabin stops.
• Cost: Access to all tracks is free for everyone throughout the entire winter.

Night Skiing on the Floodlit Lysløyper

One of the best things about skiing in Trondheim is the extensive network of floodlit tracks or lysløyper. These lights allow you to enjoy cross country skiing tracks near Trondheim city even during the dark winter afternoons. Most lights turn on automatically at sunset and stay on until 22:00 or 23:00 every single night. This feature makes it possible to enjoy the snow even when the sun sets as early as 14:30.

The lit tracks are typically wide and well-maintained to accommodate the high volume of evening skiers in the city. You can find these illuminated routes in Bymarka, Estenstadmarka, and even near the smaller local residential neighborhoods. Skiing under the bright lights through the dark forest is a magical experience that you should not miss. The snow reflects the light, making the entire forest glow with a beautiful and soft white light.

Safety is a priority on these tracks, and the lighting is checked regularly by the city maintenance crews. You do not need a headlamp to ski on these specific routes, but it is still good to have. Many people find that evening skiing is the most peaceful time to be out in the cold forest. The crowds are smaller than on weekends, and the air is often very still and quiet at night.

During the 2026 season, several new sections of LED lighting have been added to the network for better visibility. These lights are more energy-efficient and provide a clearer view of the track surface and any potential obstacles. You should always stay on the right side of the track to allow faster skiers to pass you safely. Enjoying a night ski is the perfect way to end a busy day of sightseeing in Trondheim.

Essential Gear and Local Rental Shops

Having the right equipment is very important for enjoying the cross country skiing tracks near Trondheim city safely. If you do not own skis, there are several places in the city where you can rent gear. Shops like Hank Sport or the NTNUI equipment store offer high-quality rentals for visitors and local students alike. You can rent a full set including skis, poles, and comfortable boots for a very reasonable daily price.

Choosing the correct wax for your skis is a vital skill for classic cross country skiing in varied snow. The snow temperature in Trondheim can change quickly, so you need to check the daily wax recommendations before leaving. Many local shops provide free advice on which wax to use for the current snow conditions on the mountain. You can also choose wax-free skins skis, which are becoming very popular for their ease of use in 2026.

Dressing in layers is the best way to stay warm and dry while you are active in the cold. You should wear a wool base layer against your skin to manage moisture and keep your body heat stable. Add a windproof jacket on top to protect yourself from the cold breezes that often blow across the hills. Do not forget to wear a warm hat and gloves, as you lose heat quickly from your extremities.

Rental and Gear Tips:

• Rentals: Book your equipment online in advance during busy weekends or school holidays.
• Waxing: Look for digital wax stations at major trailheads for the most current weather data.
• Clothing: Avoid cotton fabrics because they get heavy and cold when they become wet from sweat.
• Safety: Always carry a small backpack with an extra jacket and a thermos of hot water.

Reaching the Trails via Public Transport

Trondheim has an excellent public transport system that makes reaching the ski tracks very simple for every visitor. You can use the AtB mobile app to plan your journey and buy tickets directly on your smartphone. The tram and buses are equipped with racks or space for you to carry your skis safely and easily. This convenience means you do not need to rent a car to enjoy the great Norwegian outdoors.

The Gråkallbanen tram is a historic and scenic way to reach the Bymarka forest from the city center area. It climbs high above the city, offering great views of the colorful wooden houses and the deep blue fjord. You should get off at the Lian station, which is the final stop on the tram line 1. From Lian, you can step right onto the groomed tracks and begin your skiing journey immediately.

Buses are also a reliable option for reaching the eastern and southern parts of the forest trail network easily. Line 10 and Line 26 are particularly useful for skiers heading toward the Estenstadmarka or Granåsen ski stadium areas. The buses run frequently, even on weekends, ensuring that you are never stuck waiting long in the cold. Check the seasonal schedules in the app to find the most accurate departure times for your 2026 trip.

Using public transport is not only convenient but also much better for the environment than driving a private car. The parking lots at popular trailheads can fill up very quickly on sunny winter Saturdays and busy Sundays. By taking the bus or tram, you avoid the stress of finding a parking spot in the snow. It is the most authentic way to travel like a local resident in the city of Trondheim.

Cozy Cabins and Trailside Dining

Skiing in Norway is often about the destination as much as it is about the physical exercise and movement. The cross country skiing tracks near Trondheim city are famous for their wonderful trailside cabins that serve local food. Cabins like Grønlia and Elgsethytta are popular goals for many skiers who want a warm place to rest. They offer a traditional atmosphere with wooden walls, fireplaces, and large windows looking out at the snowy forest.

You must try the classic Norwegian brown cheese, known as brunost, on a fresh piece of bread or waffle. This sweet and savory cheese is a staple of the Norwegian diet and provides great energy for your ski. Most cabins also serve hot soup, sandwiches, and various types of coffee and tea to warm your cold body. The prices are usually moderate, and most places accept major credit cards or mobile payment apps in 2026.

These cabins also serve as important safety points where you can find shelter if the weather turns bad suddenly. You can dry your wet gloves by the fire while you talk to other skiers about the trail conditions. It is a very social environment where people of all ages gather to enjoy the shared winter experience together. Spending an hour in a cozy cabin is the perfect highlight of any long day on the trails.

Best Cabins to Visit:

• Skistua: The main hub in Bymarka with the most extensive food menu and facilities.
• Grønlia: Offers a beautiful view over the lake Skjellbreia and very famous large waffles.
• Elgsethytta: A bit further into the forest, perfect for those seeking a longer and quieter trip.
• Estenstadhytta: The best choice for those skiing on the eastern side of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Trondheim is truly a world-class destination for anyone who loves the sport of cross country skiing in the winter. With its vast network of trails and cozy mountain cabins, it offers a unique and memorable Norwegian experience. You can easily find cross country skiing tracks near Trondheim city that match your specific skill level and interests. Plan your trip for the 2026 season and discover why this city is a favorite for winter sports lovers. Do not forget to check the latest trail maps and weather updates before you head out into the forest.

Key Takeaways

• Bymarka and Estenstadmarka are the two main areas for cross country skiing near the city.
• Public transport like the tram and bus makes reaching the trailheads easy and very affordable.
• Visit the local mountain cabins for a traditional Norwegian snack like waffles with sweet brown cheese.
• Use the floodlit tracks to enjoy skiing during the dark winter evenings safely and comfortably.
• Always check the daily grooming reports and weather forecasts for the best experience on the snow.

Related reads: polarcityguide.com, snowshoeing trails for beginners in trondheim norway, winter trail maps for estenstadmarka in trondheim.