The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Skirvedalen Naturreservat

Skirvedalen Naturreservat offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 12 routes, with 6 classified as easy and 6 as moderate, ensuring options for various family fitness levels.

Yes, there are several easy circular walks perfect for families. For instance, the Viewpoint at Gjuvhovd – View of Gjuvhovd and the fjord loop from Vatnebekkstaulen is an easy option, offering scenic views without being too strenuous. Another great choice is the View of Gjuvhovd and the fjord – View of Gaustatoppen loop from Gjuvet naturreservat.

Skirvedalen Naturreservat is known for its pristine coniferous forests, some with old-growth characteristics, offering a true sense of wilderness. You'll also encounter diverse ecosystems, including the red-listed 'høgstaudegranskog' (tall herb spruce forest). The landscape features mountainous terrain with peaks like Haugefjellet and scenic lakes such as Svarttjønn Lake.

Easy family hikes in Skirvedalen Naturreservat can range from short walks of around 1-2 hours with minimal elevation gain, like the Hiking Map of Tinn Kommune – Sandviken Camping loop from Austbygde which is under 3 km. Moderate trails, such as the Start of Gamle Kyrkieveg – View of Lake Tinnsjå loop from Austbygde, can be longer, up to 7.4 km, and involve around 320 meters of elevation gain, taking approximately 2.5 hours.

For families with toddlers or very young children, we recommend sticking to the 'easy' graded trails, which typically have shorter distances and less elevation. The Hiking Map of Tinn Kommune – Sandviken Camping loop from Austbygde is a good example of a shorter, less challenging route that is suitable for little legs.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Skirvedalen Naturreservat, with an average score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 68 ratings. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the well-preserved natural environment, and the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels, making it a great destination for family outings.

The best time for family hiking in Skirvedalen Naturreservat is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is milder, trails are typically clear of snow, and the natural beauty of the forests and lakes is at its peak. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Many trails offer beautiful views. For example, the View of Lake Tinnsjå – Trolltur Trail loop from Austbygde provides scenic vistas of Lake Tinnsjå. The region also features mountainous terrain, with Haugefjellet being the highest peak, offering panoramic views for those who venture higher.

While specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked on the individual route pages, Skirvedalen Naturreservat generally has access points with parking facilities. It's advisable to plan your route in advance and confirm parking availability for your chosen starting point.

Skirvedalen Naturreservat is a nature reserve, which means regulations are in place to protect its plant and animal life. While dogs are generally allowed, they must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of wildlife and other visitors. Always adhere to local signage and regulations regarding pets.

For a family hike, it's essential to pack layers of clothing suitable for varying weather, sturdy shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Depending on the season, insect repellent and sun protection are also recommended. For longer or more challenging routes, a map and compass or a fully charged GPS device are advisable.