The best gravel rides in Mellomkollen Naturreservat

Mellomkollen Naturreservat offers a range of gravel biking experiences. You'll find a good mix of moderate and difficult routes. Out of 15 total tours, 8 are rated as moderate, and 7 are considered difficult, providing options for various skill levels.

The routes vary significantly in length and duration. For example, the View of Maridalsvannet – Snippen Railway Tunnel loop from Kjelsås is about 10.6 miles (17 km) and takes around 1 hour 21 minutes. For a longer adventure, consider the Skjærsjø Dam – Kikutstua Café loop from Kjelsås, which spans 46.6 miles (75.1 km) and typically requires over 4 hours to complete.

While many routes feature varied elevations and can be challenging, there are options that beginners and families might find more accessible. The View of Maridalsvannet – Snippen Railway Tunnel loop from Kjelsås is a moderate 10.6-mile route that offers a good introduction to the area's terrain without being overly strenuous.

The best time for gravel biking in Mellomkollen Naturreservat is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the trails are typically free of snow and ice, and the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Mellomkollen Naturreservat are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Skjærsjø Dam – Kikutstua Café loop from Kjelsås and the Snippen Railway Tunnel – View of Maridalsvannet loop from Kjelsås.

Specific parking availability can depend on your chosen starting point. Many routes, such as those starting from Kjelsås or Rotnes, often have designated parking areas nearby. It's advisable to check the tour details on komoot for specific parking recommendations for each route.

Yes, some starting points for gravel bike routes in Mellomkollen Naturreservat are accessible via public transport, particularly those closer to urban areas like Oslo. For instance, routes originating from Kjelsås are often reachable by local bus or train services. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, some routes incorporate stops at cafes or huts. The Skjærsjø Dam – Kikutstua Café loop from Kjelsås, for example, includes a stop at Kikutstua Café, which is a popular spot for a break and refreshments amidst your ride.

Mellomkollen Naturreservat is characterized by forested hills, serene lakes, and natural reserve paths. You can expect varied terrain with both gentle sections and significant climbs, offering scenic views of the surrounding natural landscape, including water bodies like Maridalsvannet.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from nearly 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the combination of natural scenery, varied terrain, and the accessibility of paths through forested hills and around lakes, making for a rewarding gravel biking experience.

While popular routes like the Gravel adventure from Rotnes — Oslo attract many, exploring some of the slightly longer or more challenging routes, such as the Skjærsjø Dam – Skjærsjøen Lake loop from Nittedal, can lead you to quieter sections of the reserve and offer a more secluded experience.

Many routes offer picturesque views, especially those that traverse higher elevations or pass by significant water bodies. The View of Maridalsvannet – Snippen Railway Tunnel loop from Kjelsås, as its name suggests, provides excellent views of Maridalsvannet, a prominent lake in the area. The Snippen Railway Tunnel itself is also a unique landmark along this route.