The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Stor-Leirsjøen

There are over 300 hiking routes in the Stor-Leirsjøen area, with nearly 150 classified as easy and over 150 as moderate, making it an excellent destination for family-friendly adventures. You'll find a wide variety of trails suitable for different ages and fitness levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning blend of lush forests, picturesque lakes, and varied topography, as well as the well-maintained trails that cater to all abilities. Many appreciate the panoramic views of Trondheim and the fjord from higher elevations.

Family hikes around Stor-Leirsjøen offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll traverse serene forests, encounter numerous lakes and bogs, and experience varied topography with elevations ranging from 200 to 565 meters. Some trails lead to higher points with rocky sections and alpine vegetation, providing magnificent panoramic views, while others are gentler paths through woodlands.

Yes, there are several easy trails that are suitable for families with toddlers or strollers, particularly those with well-maintained, flatter paths. For example, the Skjellbreia Lake – Grønlia Cabin loop from Moehytta is a shorter, easy route with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a gentle family outing.

For an easy and relatively short loop, we recommend the Granåsen Ski Jump – Rønningen loop from Granåsen hoppbakke. This trail is about 7 km long with moderate elevation gain, offering a pleasant walk through the natural surroundings and often featuring accessible paths suitable for various fitness levels.

If you're looking for a moderate hike with varied scenery, consider the Skjellbreia Loop Trail. This route is just under 10 km and takes you through diverse landscapes, offering a good balance of challenge and reward for families with older children or those seeking a bit more adventure.

Parking facilities are available, making access convenient. A popular starting point with parking is at Granåsen, which is only about 1 km from the dam at the eastern end of Stor-Leirsjøen. This provides easy access to many of the area's trails.

Yes, the Stor-Leirsjøen area, particularly within the Bymarka Nature Reserve, is easily accessible from Trondheim's city center by public transportation. This makes it convenient for families who prefer not to drive or are visiting without a car.

The best time for family hiking around Stor-Leirsjøen largely depends on your preferences. Summer offers lush greenery and pleasant temperatures, ideal for long walks. Autumn brings beautiful fall colors, while spring showcases awakening nature. Even winter can be magical for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, though hiking trails might be snow-covered.

For autumn hiking in Stor-Leirsjøen, layering is key. We recommend waterproof and windproof outer layers, as the weather can change quickly. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Don't forget hats, gloves, and extra socks to stay comfortable in cooler temperatures.

Many family-friendly trails lead to picturesque peaks and viewpoints offering expansive vistas. You can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of Trondheim, the majestic fjord, and distant mountain ranges like Trollheimen and Sylane. The numerous lakes, including Stor-Leirsjøen itself, and the lush forests also provide beautiful natural scenery.

While specific cafes directly on the trails are limited, the wider Bymarka Nature Reserve, which encompasses Stor-Leirsjøen, has several cabins (such as Grønlia Cabin) that sometimes offer refreshments or are great spots for a packed lunch. Given its proximity to Trondheim, you'll find ample dining options in the city center after your hike.