The best hikes from bus stations in Marifjell Naturreservat

There are several hiking trails in Marifjell Naturreservat that are accessible from bus stations. This guide features 5 such routes, offering a range of experiences for different preferences.

The terrain in Marifjell Naturreservat is characterized by expansive old-growth spruce forests, intermixed with birch. You'll encounter varied forest types, including typical mountain forest and boreal taiga elements. Some sections feature demanding ascents, while others offer more relaxed hiking. The landscape also includes water features like the Hegga river and several small lakes.

Yes, several routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often near a bus stop. For example, the Bårhaugkampen – Stangslia loop from Vollaugkrysset is a moderate 6.5 km circular hike, and the Kløvberget – Nipkollen loop from Kløvberget offers a longer 8.4 km option.

Marifjell Naturreservat is generally dog-friendly, but it's important to keep dogs on a leash, especially during the bird nesting season (April 1st to August 20th) and to protect wildlife. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them.

Yes, there are options suitable for families. The Kløvberget – View of the Lake loop from Kløvberget is a moderate 5.1 km route with an elevation gain of around 150 meters, making it a manageable option for families looking for a shorter outing. Another good choice is the View of the Lake at Sunset loop from Rødvika, which is an easy 6.2 km hike.

While hiking in Marifjell Naturreservat, you can enjoy several viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of Hurdalssjøen, Mistberget, Øyangen in Jeppedalen, and the Romerikssletta. The highest peak, Marifjell (717 meters), features Marifjellshytta, a tourist cabin, and an observation tower built in 2014, providing panoramic views.

The reserve is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer vibrant colors and cooler temperatures, ideal for hiking. The trails are also known to retain snow well into the spring, suggesting potential for winter recreational activities, though conditions can be more challenging. Summer provides longer daylight hours and generally warmer weather.

The hikes in this guide range from easy to moderate. While some sections present demanding climbs, particularly towards Marifjell itself, others offer more relaxed hiking. For example, the Nipkollen loop from Holkebylia is a moderate 10.1 km route with nearly 300 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout.

Marifjell Naturreservat stands out due to its extensive old-growth forest, much of which displays primeval forest qualities with minimal logging since the 1950s. It's a pristine example of boreal taiga in Eastern Norway, boasting significant biodiversity and 10 red-listed species. The combination of ancient forests, diverse landscapes, and the panoramic views from Marifjell makes it a special hiking destination.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the feeling of being immersed in untouched nature, and the rewarding views from higher elevations like Marifjell.