The best traffic-free bike rides around the Glomma

There are currently 13 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around the Glomma region. These routes offer a peaceful way to explore the diverse landscapes and historical sites along Norway's longest river.

Yes, there is one easy no-traffic touring cycling route perfect for beginners or families. We recommend the Kråkerøy Bridge – Byferga Ferry Near Fredrikstad loop from Fredrikstad, which is just under 13 km long with minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant ride near the historic town.

The no-traffic routes along Glomma offer a varied landscape. You'll cycle through serene riverside paths, dense forests, and open marshes, particularly in areas like Brydalen and Storoestfloen. Many routes also provide fabulous views of valleys, and some even lead to elevated points with panoramic vistas of the Glomma River.

You can discover several historical and natural attractions. Near Fredrikstad, explore the well-preserved Fredrikstad Fortress and the Artists' Quarter in Gamlebyen. Further north, you might encounter the impressive Jutulhogget Canyon, one of Northern Europe's largest. The region also features historical sites like the Begby Rock Carvings and the powerful Sarpsfossen Waterfall.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Glomma Railway Bridge – Fetsund Bridge loop from Sørumsand offers a moderate 48 km circular ride, and the Kongsvinger – Bæreia lake loop from Kongsvinger is a challenging 41 km option.

The best time to cycle the no-traffic routes in Glomma is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is more favorable, and the natural beauty of the forests and riverbanks is at its peak, with abundant wild berries in late summer.

While many routes are day trips, some offer significant distances for touring. The Glomma bridge – Mosquito Sculpture loop from Tynset is a challenging 70 km route, providing a substantial no-traffic touring experience through varied terrain.

The no-traffic routes in Glomma often feature a mix of well-maintained gravel roads and fresh asphalt. While efforts are made to keep traffic minimal, some stretches might require extra vigilance due to varying surfaces. The east side of Glomma, particularly from Elverum to Rena and Koppang, is known for very little traffic and pleasant cycling conditions.

The Glomma region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning riverside views, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and natural wonders without the disturbance of heavy traffic.

Yes, for cyclists seeking a challenge, several routes feature significant elevation gain. The Bukkhammeren – Nedre Ånrøsta loop from Tynset, for instance, is a difficult 34 km route with over 650 meters of elevation gain, offering rewarding climbs and descents.