The best running trails in Glotternskogens Naturreservat

Glotternskogens Naturreservat offers a wide selection of running trails, with over 50 routes documented on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy paths to more challenging trails.

Runners in Glotternskogens Naturreservat will experience a diverse landscape. The terrain features rocky wooded heights, steep slopes, and humid valleys, alongside open moorland and swamp forests. You'll primarily be running through natural coniferous forests with large pines, and some areas include old gnarled deciduous trees, offering a varied and engaging environment.

Yes, the reserve is known for its well-developed network of circular trails, totaling 16 kilometers. Many of these loops are located above Lake Övre Glottern in the northern section. An example is the Övre Glottern loop from Norra Granstorp, a moderate 5 km path offering scenic views.

Beyond the diverse forests and varied terrain, you'll encounter several scenic and historic points. The reserve encompasses the larger lakes Övre Glottern and Nedre Glottern, as well as smaller lakes like Råsjön. There's also a rocky hill providing a beautiful viewpoint approximately 500 meters from a car park. In the northern part, you can discover the remains of around 40 historic charcoal kilns, some up to 300 years old.

Yes, the reserve offers routes suitable for various ability levels. While there are 8 difficult routes, there are also 5 easy routes and 45 moderate routes, providing plenty of options for beginners to find a comfortable pace and distance. The extensive network ensures there's a path for every runner.

Glotternskogens Naturreservat is generally welcoming to dogs, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. The natural environment, with its diverse landscapes and trails, makes it a great place to run with your canine companion.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.6 stars from over 28 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse and almost pristine natural environment, the scenic lakes, and the well-developed network of trails that offer a true escape into nature. The varied terrain and the sense of an old-growth forest are frequently highlighted.

Yes, for those looking for longer runs, the renowned Östgötaleden trail passes through Glotternskogens Naturreservat. This offers opportunities to extend your run beyond the reserve's internal network and explore more of the surrounding Kolmården forest area.

Yes, the reserve provides some useful facilities for visitors. You'll find wind shelters and a 'kolarkoja' (charcoal hut) available at both Nedre and Övre Glottern. Additionally, there's a popular, bookable wood-fired sauna located on the banks of Övre Glottern, accessible via a forest path, offering a unique post-run relaxation option.

While the reserve generally offers a good trail network, visitors should be aware that some orange-marked trails might have lower accessibility due to fallen trees, often caused by bark beetle infestations. However, a blue-marked trail leading to the sauna is specifically noted for its high accessibility, providing a reliable option for a smoother run.

Absolutely. A popular choice for a moderate-difficulty run covering a good distance is the Övre Herrgölen – Glotternskogens naturreservat loop from Norra Granstorp. This trail is 10.3 km (6.4 miles) long and explores the varied forest and lake landscapes of the reserve.

Many routes in the reserve offer beautiful lake views. For instance, the Övre Glottern loop from Norra Granstorp is a moderate 5 km path specifically designed to provide views of Övre Glottern lake as it winds through the natural coniferous forests.

For a longer, moderate run that takes you through diverse forest and wetland areas, consider the Torshagskärret – Mela kyrkskogs naturreservat loop from Åby. This trail is 12.9 km (8.0 miles) long and offers a comprehensive experience of the region's natural beauty.