The best MTB trails around Molde

Molde offers a good selection of mountain bike trails, with 6 routes detailed in this guide. The wider region boasts numerous trails, with 29 identified trails covering a total length of 81 km, providing a variety of experiences for riders.

The ideal time for mountain biking in Molde is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September), when conditions are mild and pleasant. Summer also offers long daylight hours, perfect for extended rides.

While many routes are moderate, there are options for less experienced riders. For example, the Sylteosen dyrefredningsområde loop from Hauglia is an easy-grade trail, offering a more gentle introduction to mountain biking in the area.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Molde are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Ski Jump Ramps at ELMO – Varden Viewpoint (Molde) loop from Røysan, which offers a scenic round trip.

Molde's mountain bike trails feature diverse terrain, combining mountainous landscapes with coastal views overlooking the Romsdal Fjord. You'll encounter challenging uphill climbs, technical singletracks, and smoother descents through serene woodlands, often with rock slabs and forest roads.

Absolutely. The Varden Viewpoint is a popular stop along several routes, offering sweeping views of Molde city and its surrounding islands. You can also find stunning vistas like the View from Varden over Moldefjorden and the Molde Harbour and Mountain Panorama.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations are not always explicit, routes with an 'easy' difficulty grade, such as the Sylteosen dyrefredningsområde loop from Hauglia, are generally more suitable for families. These trails often feature less technical terrain and shorter distances.

Beyond the trails, you can explore cultural and natural attractions. The Romsdal Museum (also known as Romsdal Open-Air Museum) is an open-air museum showcasing traditional Norwegian culture, located near some trailheads. You might also encounter natural features like the Waterfalls on the Trail to Trollkirka.

The mountain bike trails around Molde vary in length. For instance, the Varden Viewpoint (Molde) – Ski Jump Ramps at ELMO loop from Leirgrovvik is about 16.9 km (10.5 miles), while the Lake Near Øverås – Ski Jump Ramps at ELMO loop from Molde is approximately 28.7 km (17.8 miles).

The mountain bike routes in Molde are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 7 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the combination of mountainous landscapes with coastal views, and the well-maintained paths.

Many outdoor trails in Norway, including those around Molde, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash, especially during lambing season (April-June) and to protect wildlife. Always check local signage and regulations for specific trail rules regarding dogs.