Hallingdal Route

The route is designed to connect the dramatic Flåm Valley with the broader Hallingdal region. While the Flåm Valley section often starts from Myrdal or Vatnahalsen (accessible via the Flåm Railway), the specific komoot route begins near Flåm and heads towards the Hallingdal valley. Parking options are available in Flåm, but specific trailhead parking for this exact route may vary depending on your chosen starting point within the region.

For the Flåm Valley section, a popular approach is to take the scenic Flåm Railway up to Myrdal or Vatnahalsen and then cycle down. For the Hallingdal region, public transport options like buses connect various towns, but for specific starting points of gravel routes, a car might be more convenient. Always check local timetables and accessibility for your chosen start.

The route combines varied terrain. The Flåm Valley section, particularly the Rallarvegen, features gravel roads, transitioning to paved sections further down. The Hallingdal region offers a mix of gravel and asphalt, often in hilly forest terrain. You can expect fine gravel roads in some parts, with potential for more technical sections depending on the exact path taken.

You'll experience dramatic and varied landscapes. The Flåm Valley boasts majestic waterfalls like Kjosfossen and Rjoandefossen, with panoramic views and traditional mountain farms. As you move into Hallingdal, expect magnificent trails amidst beautiful nature, including vibrant settlements, rock formations, rivers, and dense forest areas, offering scenic views where 'east meets west' in terms of landscape.

Along the route, you might pass by the historic Rallarvegen, the Myrdalsberget with its 21 hairpin bends, and follow the Flåm river. In Hallingdal, you'll ride alongside the Hallingdalselve River, potentially crossing the Hallingdalselve steel and timber bridge. Keep an eye out for a Gravel Road Through Forest Near Gausdal and enjoy a View of the Hallingdal River.

The best time is typically from late spring to early autumn. Be aware that snow can remain on the upper stretches of the Flåm Valley section well into May. Summer and early autumn offer the most reliable conditions for gravel biking in both regions, with pleasant weather and full accessibility.

While many outdoor areas in Norway are dog-friendly, specific rules can apply to national parks, protected areas, or private land. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially during nesting seasons or when livestock are present. Always check local regulations for the specific sections you plan to bike.

Generally, no specific permits are required for gravel biking on public roads and marked trails in these regions. However, if you plan to use the Flåm Railway as part of your journey, there will be a fee for the train ticket and potentially for transporting your bike. Always check for any local fees or regulations, especially if venturing onto private land.

The overall route is rated as 'difficult' on komoot. While the downhill section of the Flåm Valley (Rallarvegen) is considered fairly easy, the Hallingdal region offers a diverse range of terrain, including routes with significant climbs and technical sections. Beginners should research specific, shorter, and less challenging sections within the broader Hallingdal network, such as the 'HallingSpranget' in Nesbyen, which is known as a family-friendly trail.

Yes, this route includes sections of the Nasjonal sykkelrute 4 (Lierskoggen-Geilo), covering approximately 60% of the trail. This means you'll be sharing parts of your journey with a recognized national cycling route.

For a unique experience in the Flåm Valley, consider taking the Flåm Railway up to Myrdal or Vatnahalsen. This allows you to enjoy the stunning scenery on the train ride up and then experience a predominantly downhill gravel bike ride back to Flåm, making for a memorable and less strenuous adventure.