The best traffic-free bike rides around Hemsedal

Hemsedal offers a comprehensive network of trails and gravel roads. This guide features 9 carefully selected routes that prioritize a traffic-free experience, ranging from moderate to difficult.

Hemsedal, often called the 'Scandinavian Alps,' provides stunning mountainous landscapes and an extensive network of marked trails and gravel roads. The region actively develops new bicycle paths, ensuring diverse terrain from gentle valley rides to challenging high mountain trails, all with breathtaking views and minimal traffic.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Hemsedal, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the spectacular mountain scenery, the quiet and well-maintained gravel roads, and the sense of immersion in nature away from vehicle traffic.

While this guide focuses on moderate to difficult routes, Hemsedal does offer options for less experienced riders. For example, the region has a family bike park and a playground for two-wheel enthusiasts called Tottelia Bike Park, offering green, blue, and red trails for various skill levels. For specific easy, traffic-free gravel routes, it's best to consult local bike rental shops or tourist information for current recommendations.

Absolutely. Hemsedal is known for its demanding terrain. Routes like the Flævassdammen – View of Hemsedal loop from Hemsil and the Syndinstøga – Mjølkerampe Vaset loop from Nøsen Yoga og Fjellhotell are rated difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and longer distances, perfect for experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge away from traffic.

Many routes offer stunning natural sights. You can encounter beautiful waterfalls like Rjukandefossen Waterfall, which even has a suspension bridge. The trails also lead past pristine lakes such as Helgetjerne and Vavatn, and through lush valleys with panoramic mountain views. The Explore Osevegen and Tisleifjorden — Innlandet route, for instance, provides scenic views of the Tisleifjorden lake.

Beyond natural beauty, Hemsedal offers cultural attractions. While cycling, you might pass traditional Norwegian farm landscapes. For a deeper dive into local history, consider visiting Hemsedal Bygdetun, an open-air museum, or the historic Gol Stave Church. Some routes might offer distant views of prominent peaks like Totten Summit or Grønsennknippa Summit.

Yes, several routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path. Examples include the Oset Fjellhotell and Bistro – Oset Mountain Church loop from Kamben and the Flævassdammen – View of Hemsedal loop from Lappegardstølen, providing varied scenery throughout your ride.

The summer months (June to August) generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in Hemsedal, with warmer weather and accessible trails. To truly avoid traffic, consider riding during weekdays or earlier in the morning, even during peak season. The shoulder seasons of late spring (May) and early autumn (September) can also offer beautiful, quieter rides with fewer people, though weather can be more unpredictable.

Hemsedal is a family-friendly destination. While some routes in this guide are challenging, the region also offers easier, dedicated bike paths and the Tottelia Bike Park with trails for various skill levels. When planning a family outing, look for routes described as 'easy' or 'family-friendly' by local tourism resources, which often prioritize flat, well-maintained gravel roads away from vehicle traffic.

Many gravel routes in Hemsedal start from accessible points with designated parking areas, especially near hotels or trailheads. For example, the Oset Fjellhotell and Bistro – Oset Mountain Church loop from Kamben starts near Kamben, which typically has parking. Public transport options, such as buses, connect various parts of Hemsedal and surrounding valleys, but it's advisable to check specific routes and schedules for bike transport availability before your trip. For general travel information to the region, you can visit Visit Norway's Hemsedal page.

Hemsedal offers various accommodation and dining options. While the trails themselves might not have frequent cafes, many routes start or pass near mountain hotels, traditional farmsteads, or villages where you can find refreshments and lodging. For instance, the Oset Fjellhotell and Bistro – Oset Mountain Church loop from Kamben is named after Oset Fjellhotell, indicating amenities nearby. It's always a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes.