The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Harasjøen

There are several dedicated family-friendly hiking trails around Harasjøen, with 4 routes specifically curated for this guide. Most of these are easy, making them suitable for various ages and abilities.

Yes, the area around Harasjøen is known for its extensive network of forest roads, many of which form circular routes. For an easy option, consider the Hiking loop from Katthølet, which is under 2 km and perfect for a short family outing.

The trails wind through pleasant forest landscapes and offer glimpses of the tranquil Harasjøen lake itself. The region is characterized by its serene natural environment, with diverse flora and fauna. While there are no specific waterfalls listed on these routes, the Malungslia – Langfossen loop from Malungen is named after a 'Langfossen', suggesting a potential water feature along its path.

Harasjøen is a popular outdoor destination, and many forest roads are suitable for walks with dogs. However, it's always important to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or during specific seasons, to protect both your pet and the local environment. Always check local regulations before you go.

While specific parking locations for each trail are best checked on the individual route pages, the extensive network of forest roads around Harasjøen generally offers accessible parking opportunities. Look for designated parking areas near trailheads, especially at common starting points like Søndre Amundrud or Tangen kirke for routes such as the Kongsrudberget loop from Søndre Amundrud.

The spring, summer, and autumn months are ideal for family hiking around Harasjøen. During summer, the lake offers excellent swimming spots, and the forest roads are clear. In autumn, the changing foliage provides beautiful scenery. Winter transforms many of these routes into ski trails, so if you're looking for hiking, aim for the warmer seasons.

Many of the forest roads around Harasjøen are relatively flat and wide, making them potentially suitable for strollers, especially the easier sections. For a shorter, less challenging walk, the Hiking loop from Katthølet is an easy option that might work well for families with very young children or strollers, depending on the specific path conditions.

The Harasjøen area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil forest environment, the well-maintained forest roads perfect for walking, and the peaceful atmosphere of the lake, making it an 'outdoor eldorado' for various activities beyond just hiking.

Yes, the region is well-equipped for outdoor recreation. A notable resting point is Storhaugbåtstøa, a lean-to shelter located at the southern end of Harasjøen, provided by Romedal almennings turstilag. This makes for an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy a picnic by the lake.

Absolutely! Harasjøen is perfect for combining hiking with other family-friendly activities. The lake has several good swimming spots where the water warms up early in the season. Its calm waters, with a boat motor limit of 5 horsepower, also make it excellent for paddling with canoes and kayaks, offering a peaceful experience on the water after a hike.

For families seeking a slightly longer and more challenging hike, the Malungslia – Langfossen loop from Malungen is a moderate route spanning nearly 9 km. It offers more elevation gain and a longer duration, providing a rewarding experience for active families.

Many of the trails, particularly those that follow the lake's perimeter or ascend slightly into the surrounding forests, will offer pleasant views of Harasjøen and the serene forest landscape. The Vikselva Lake – Tangen Church loop from Tangen kirke, for instance, provides opportunities to enjoy the scenery around Vikselva Lake, which drains into Harasjøen.