The best traffic-free bike rides in Krokskogen Naturreservat

Krokskogen Naturreservat offers a diverse landscape with extensive gravel roads, ranging from well-maintained surfaces to more challenging segments. You'll encounter hilly terrain with significant elevation changes, dense forests, and tranquil lakes. Some parts may require good fitness and advanced riding skills, with occasional sections where you might need to push your bike.

Yes, there are options for easier rides. For a relatively gentle experience, consider the Storflåtan Lake – Damtjern loop from Damtjern. This route is rated as easy and covers about 13.5 km with moderate elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride away from traffic.

Krokskogen offers several scenic highlights. You can find expansive views from high points like Oppkuven, Ringkollen, and Gyrihaugen. The Mørkgonga Gorge, a striking geological formation, is also a notable attraction. Many routes pass by tranquil lakes and through dense forests, providing a true natural escape. For a route featuring specific views, check out the View of Ringerike – View of Øyangen Lake loop from Øyangen.

The length of the no-traffic gravel bike trails varies significantly. You can find shorter loops, such as the Storflåtan Lake – Damtjern loop from Damtjern at around 13.5 km, up to much longer and more challenging routes like the Sørkedalen General Store & Café – Bogstad Manor loop from Damtjern, which spans over 68 km.

The best time for gravel biking in Krokskogen Naturreservat is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the trails are typically free of snow and ice, offering the most enjoyable riding conditions. Winter conditions can make many trails impassable or require specialized equipment.

While many routes offer a wilderness experience, some do pass by points of interest where you might find refreshments. For example, the extensive Sørkedalen General Store & Café – Bogstad Manor loop from Damtjern includes a stop at Sørkedalen General Store & Café. It's always a good idea to check opening hours in advance and carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer rides.

Access to Krokskogen Naturreservat by public transport is possible, though it often requires a combination of bus and potentially a short ride to reach the trailheads. Many routes start from areas accessible from Oslo, such as Sørkedalen or Øyangen. It's recommended to check local bus schedules and routes to plan your journey, as direct access to all trailheads might not be available.

Krokskogen Naturreservat is part of the larger Oslomarka forested area, known for its rich biodiversity. While cycling, you might spot various bird species, deer, and smaller forest animals. Keep an eye out for moose, though they are generally shy. Enjoy the opportunity to connect with nature in this wild setting.

Yes, Krokskogen offers challenging routes for experienced gravel bikers. The terrain can be demanding with significant elevation gains. For instance, the Byvann Dam – Heggelielva Waterfall loop from Sørkedalen is rated as difficult, covering nearly 29 km with over 500 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Sørkedalen General Store & Café – Bogstad Manor loop from Damtjern, which is over 68 km long with more than 1100 meters of climbing.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Krokskogen Naturreservat, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of traffic-free gravel roads, the stunning natural beauty of the dense forests and tranquil lakes, and the sense of peaceful escape so close to Oslo. The varied terrain and challenging climbs are also frequently highlighted by those seeking an adventure.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike routes in Krokskogen Naturreservat are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Storflåtan Lake – Damtjern loop from Damtjern, the View of Ringerike – View of Øyangen Lake loop from Øyangen, and the Forest Stream in Nordmarka – Sørkedalen General Store & Café loop from Sørkedalen.