The best cycling routes in Krokskogen Naturreservat

Krokskogen Naturreservat features a diverse landscape with dense forests, hilly terrain, and significant elevation changes, ranging around 500-600 meters above sea level. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. While some routes are mostly paved, others include unpaved segments that can be challenging and may require pushing your bike.

Yes, Krokskogen Naturreservat offers routes for various skill levels. For an easier option, consider the Damtjern – Storflåtan Lake loop from Damtjern, which is 8.7 miles (14.0 km) long and takes about 1 hour 16 minutes to complete, leading through forest and past Storflåtan Lake.

The reserve is rich in natural beauty. You might encounter striking geological formations like the Mørkgonga Gorge, a deep crack within the lava plate. High points such as Gyrihaugen (682 m) and Oppkuven (704 m) offer expansive views. The area also features diverse coniferous and old-growth forests, stream valleys, and marsh ponds.

There are 18 touring cycling routes available in Krokskogen Naturreservat on komoot. These include 2 easy, 7 moderate, and 9 difficult options, catering to a wide range of cycling abilities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 17 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from ancient forests and volcanic features to panoramic views and serene water bodies, as well as the variety of routes available for different skill levels.

Yes, some popular routes pass by cafes. For instance, the Storflåtan Lake – Sørkedalen General Store & Café loop from Damtjern includes a stop at Sørkedalen General Store & Café. Another route, Kikutstua – Kikutstua Café loop from Damtjern, features the Kikutstua Café.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Krokskogen Naturreservat are designed as loops. Examples include the Kikutstua – Kikutstua Café loop from Damtjern and the Sørkedalen General Store & Café – Forest Stream in Nordmarka loop from Sørkedalen, offering convenient starting and ending points.

Elevation gains vary significantly across the routes. While some easier rides have less than 500 feet of elevation gain, more challenging routes can involve over 1500 feet, requiring very good fitness. For example, the Kikutstua – Kikutstua Café loop from Damtjern has an elevation gain of over 900 meters.

While Krokskogen Naturreservat is part of Oslomarka, which is generally accessible by public transport, specific rules for carrying bicycles on buses or trains to the reserve's entry points can vary. It's advisable to check with local public transport providers (e.g., Ruter in the Oslo region) for their current policies regarding bicycle transport.

Yes, the old King's Road (Ringeriksveien), opened in 1805, is a significant historical route. It once served as a main connection from Oslo to Ringerike and is now a cultural heritage site where cycling is permitted on existing roads, though motorized traffic is forbidden between Sundvollen and Kleivstua.

Krokskogen Naturreservat is important for its biological diversity. You might spot rich bird and animal life within its large, continuous old-growth forest areas. The flora includes diverse coniferous and broad-leaved trees, and a rich and interesting lichen flora, such as lung lichen and the environmental indicator *huldrestry*.

The best time for touring cycling in Krokskogen Naturreservat is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn, when trails are clear of snow and ice. This period offers pleasant temperatures and the full beauty of the forest and water features. Always check local weather conditions before you go.