The best traffic-free bike rides in Spålen-Katnosa Naturreservat

There are 10 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Spålen-Katnosa Naturreservat featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options to suit various fitness levels.

The no-traffic routes in Spålen-Katnosa Naturreservat feature varied and beautiful terrain. You can expect a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, including gravel roads, with some segments that may be steeper. The landscape is characterized by extensive forested hills, large lakes like Katnosa and Spålen, and serene waterways.

Yes, there are easy no-traffic routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Nedre Karlstjernet loop from Skjerpemyr naturminne is a shorter option with manageable elevation. Another accessible choice is the Damtjern – Storflåtan Lake loop from Damtjern, offering a pleasant ride around the lake.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Storflåtan Lake – Sørkedalen General Store & Café loop from Damtjern offer significant elevation gain and a longer distance. The Bike loop from Fålamyra also presents a difficult rating with varied terrain.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Spålen-Katnosa Naturreservat are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Kikutstua – Kikutstua Café loop from Furumo and the Nedre Karlstjernet loop from Skjerpemyr naturminne.

The area is rich in cultural-historical memories. Along the routes, you might encounter sights such as the old Finnstad settlement, the wilderness area of Finnvassdalen, and Finnerudseter vollen, an ancient settlement of forest Finns. For panoramic views, Lortholkollen is recognized as one of Nordmarka's finest viewpoints, and a summit hike to Spålsberget is also recommended.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Spålen-Katnosa Naturreservat, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, natural environment, the extensive network of no-traffic routes, and the beautiful scenery dominated by large lakes and dense forests. The feeling of being 'little touched by technical interventions' is frequently highlighted.

While the reserve itself is largely untouched, cabins like Katnosdammen and Sinnerdamshytta can serve as excellent starting points for day trips and offer opportunities for overnight stays. Some routes, like the Kikutstua – Kikutstua Café loop from Furumo, pass by established cafes, providing convenient refreshment stops.

The best time for touring cycling in Spålen-Katnosa Naturreservat is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are free of snow and ice, offering optimal conditions for exploring the diverse landscapes.

Access to Spålen-Katnosa Naturreservat often involves a combination of public transport and short transfers. While direct public transport into the heart of the reserve may be limited, you can typically reach peripheral access points via bus or train services to nearby municipalities like Ringerike, Lunner, or Jevnaker, and then cycle or arrange further transport to your starting point. Specific public transport options vary by season and exact starting location.

Parking availability varies depending on the specific starting point of your chosen route. Many popular access points around the reserve, such as those near Vestend hyttegrend or Nordstrandkollen, offer designated parking for visitors. It's advisable to check the route details for specific parking recommendations before your trip.