The best road cycling routes around Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella

The region offers a diverse landscape, from wide expanses of tundra and verdant mountain pastures to deep valleys like Grimsdalen, often called Norway's most beautiful mountain farming valley. You'll find routes that transition from steep, jagged mountains in the west to gentler, drier terrain further east. The Fokstumyra wetlands also provide a serene, flatter cycling experience.

Yes, while the region is known for its varied mountain terrain, there are options for less experienced cyclists. The National Park Road between Dombås and Hjerkinn is noted as relatively easy and family-friendly. The Fokstumyra wetlands also offer a serene and flat cycling experience, contrasting with the more rugged mountain routes.

For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Oppdal – Støltroa loop from Oppdal offer significant elevation gain, with nearly 1,400 meters of climbing over 95 kilometers. The Vålåsjøhø and Snøheim roads, though primarily gravel, are known for intense cycling with substantial elevation and stunning mountain views.

Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella is unique for its wildlife. It's home to Norway's only remaining wild mountain reindeer herd and a reintroduced population of prehistoric musk oxen. You might also spot wolverines, arctic foxes, golden eagles, and various wading birds. Guided musk ox safaris are a popular activity if you wish to see them up close. You can learn more about the musk oxen at the Wild Musk Oxen in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park highlight.

Yes, cycling on Snøheimvegen and Vålåsjøhøvegen within the Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park is only permitted between June 1 and July 15. This restriction is in place to protect the vulnerable wild reindeer population during a critical period.

E-bikes are generally allowed on roads where cars are permitted. However, there are strict restrictions within the National Park and Hjerkinn Protected Landscape/habitat areas, where e-bikes are generally not allowed due to environmental protection measures.

The region offers several stunning viewpoints. Snøhetta, Stortoppen, at 2,286 meters, is a prominent peak. You can also visit View of the Mountains in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park and Viewpoint with Panoramic Views in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park for breathtaking vistas. Viewpoint Snøhetta provides panoramic views of the famous Snøhetta mountain and is part of the Wild Reindeer Visitor Centre.

The renowned 'Tour de Dovre' is a 130-kilometer round trip that winds through three national parks: Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella, Rondane, and Dovre. This route combines gravel and asphalt roads, offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage. You can find more information about it on Visit Dovre.

Several popular routes offer a circular experience. The Hjerkinn fjellstue loop from Hjerkinn is a moderate 33.1 km ride. Another favorite is the River View loop from Kjøremsgrende, a moderate 46.5 km path following rushing watercourses. The Ulekleivshaugen – Møllerhaugen loop from Dombås is also a popular 49.4 km moderate route.

Yes, the region has several huts and lodges that can serve as resting points or overnight accommodations. Notable options include DNT Snøheim, DNT Reinheim, and Snøheim Lodge (DNT). Hjerkinn Mountain Lodge also has a long history of providing hospitality.

A significant development for cyclists is the 30-kilometer bike path connecting Dombås to Hjerkinn, which bypasses the busy E6 highway and makes the area more accessible for cycling. Dombås is a key transport hub, offering train connections, which can be useful for reaching the starting points of various routes.

The best time for road cycling in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella is generally during the summer months, from late June to early September, when the roads are clear of snow and ice, and the weather is most favorable. However, be aware of specific road restrictions for wildlife protection between June 1 and July 15 on certain routes.