The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Munklia Naturreservat

Munklia Naturreservat offers a selection of five family-friendly hiking routes, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging paths suitable for active families. These trails provide a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of the reserve.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families with young children or those new to hiking. For a pleasant and accessible walk, consider the Hiking loop from Bårdshaug, which is just over 5 km long. Another great option is the Orkanger loop from Bårdshaug, offering a slightly longer but still easy 7 km experience.

The trails in Munklia Naturreservat traverse a varied landscape of low hills, expansive marsh areas, and tranquil spruce forests. You'll find paths winding through old-growth forest sections and along distinct valleys. While many trails are generally accessible, some routes may involve gentle ascents and descents, with the bedrock primarily consisting of glimmer gneiss and mica schist.

Absolutely! All five family-friendly routes in this guide are circular, making them convenient for families as you'll always end up back where you started. Examples include the Orkanger loop from Bårdshaug and the Hiking loop from Fannremsmo.

While the guide focuses on family-friendly routes, Munklia Naturreservat is generally welcoming to dogs. However, it's always important to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Please check local regulations for any specific restrictions within the reserve.

Yes, for families seeking rewarding views, the area around Raudhåmmårn (also known as Rødkammen) is highly recommended. The Rømmeskammen – View from Raudhåmmårn loop from Orkanger offers superb panoramic views across the town of Orkanger and the surrounding countryside, including Surnadalsfjella to the south and Geitastradfjella to the north. Note that this particular route is rated as difficult, making it suitable for older children and more experienced hiking families.

Munklia Naturreservat offers beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the woodlands. While winter hikes are possible, be prepared for snow and ice, and ensure you have appropriate gear for colder conditions.

For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Orkanger loop from Orkanger is a moderate 10.4 km route. Additionally, the Rømmeskammen – View from Raudhåmmårn loop from Orkanger, though rated difficult, offers significant elevation gain and stunning panoramic views, making it suitable for very fit and adventurous families.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil forest atmosphere, the diverse marshlands, and the rewarding panoramic views from spots like Raudhåmmårn. The well-developed network of trails also receives positive feedback for its accessibility and variety.

While specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked on the individual route pages, Munklia Naturreservat is generally accessible by car. Many trails, such as those starting from Bårdshaug or Orkanger, typically have designated parking areas nearby, making it convenient for families to access the trails.

Munklia Naturreservat is a natural reserve, so amenities like cafes are not typically found directly within the reserve itself. However, given its proximity to towns like Orkanger, you can find various amenities, including cafes and shops, a short drive away before or after your hike.