Gråkallen Trondheim
A 552m summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of Trondheim and its surroundings, featuring a unique compass display.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light and fewer crowds
Gråkallen Trondheim
Best Time
Magical light and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 552m summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of Trondheim and its surroundings, featuring a unique compass display.
"A pleasant walk and a wonderful view, very impressed and will come back again."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven, especially in winter. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Visibility is key for the views. Clear days are best! :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City and Fjord Views
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Trondheim, the fjord, and distant mountains.
Compass Display
Summit
Identify surrounding peaks with this unique compass-like marker.
Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles
Summit
Witness magical golden hours painting the sky over Trondheim.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Accessibility and Trail Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven, especially in winter. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Visibility is key for the views. Clear days are best! :cloud:
Low-Threshold Summit
Easily accessible for all fitness levels, rewarding with great views. :hiking_boot:
Great for Trail Running
A popular route from the city center for a scenic run. :runner:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven, especially in winter. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Visibility is key for the views. Clear days are best! :cloud:
Low-Threshold Summit
Easily accessible for all fitness levels, rewarding with great views. :hiking_boot:
Great for Trail Running
A popular route from the city center for a scenic run. :runner:
Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for stunning sunrise/sunset shots. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gråakallen for its stunning panoramic views of Trondheim and the surrounding countryside, making it a worthwhile destination for a pleasant walk or trail run. While some note it's a hill rather than a mountain, its accessibility and beautiful scenery are highly appreciated, with many expressing a desire to return.
"Nice view of the countryside,It's my first visit here, very impressed. And will come back again when the opportunity arises👌🏻😍"
Phatlada Varasutthikul
"A pleasant walk and a wonderful view"
Tomáš Velička
"First this is a hill, not a mountain. It makes for a nice trail run form the centrum (about 16 there and back from where I live at Øya.). It is neither a tourist attraction, nor an iconic place to visit, nevertheless, worthwhile ticking off on your bucket list if you have time to it."
Phillip Maree
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to a parking area near the base and hike up, or for the more adventurous, it's a popular trail run from the city center, approximately 16km round trip. Some visitors also mention it as a starting point for trail rides.
While direct public transport to the summit is limited, you can take buses towards Bymarka and then begin your hike. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules for the closest stop.
Yes, Gråakallen is a popular destination for cycling, especially for trail riding. There are many trails in Bymarka that lead to or near the summit.
Gråakallen is considered a low-threshold summit, meaning it's accessible for most fitness levels. It's a rewarding hike without being overly strenuous.
For a first visit, consider driving to a nearby parking area and enjoying a moderate hike up. This allows you to focus on the views without the added challenge of a long city-to-summit trek.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Gråakallen is a natural outdoor area and does not require any admission tickets. Access to the trails and the summit is free for everyone.
As an outdoor natural area, Gråakallen is accessible at all hours. However, for safety and the best experience, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
There isn't a formal visitor center at Gråakallen. Information about the area and trails is generally available through local tourism websites or apps.
Yes, Gråakallen can be visited in winter, offering beautiful snowy landscapes. Be prepared for cold weather and potentially icy or snowy trails, requiring appropriate gear.
Parking availability and any associated fees can vary depending on the specific access point you choose. It's best to check local signage or information for the parking area you plan to use.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, creating a magical atmosphere over Trondheim and the fjords. Clear days are also excellent for capturing sharp, detailed panoramic shots. 
You can capture stunning panoramic views of Trondheim, the Trondheimsfjord, and the surrounding Bymarka nature reserve. The compass display also makes for an interesting photographic element.
Gråakallen's open summit and expansive views make it a great location for drone photography, offering unique aerial perspectives of the landscape. Always be mindful of local drone regulations.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive panoramas. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset.
The summit itself offers the primary viewpoint. Look for clearings along the trails leading up for different perspectives of the city and fjord.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Besides the incredible views, Gråakallen is a fantastic starting point for various hikes and trail runs within Bymarka. The compass display is also a point of interest.
There are no dedicated facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at the summit of Gråakallen. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your hike.
Yes, Gråakallen is a wonderful spot for a picnic, especially on a clear day. Enjoying a meal with a view is a memorable experience.
The time to reach the summit can vary greatly depending on your starting point and fitness level. A hike from a nearby parking area might take 30-60 minutes, while a run from the city center is much longer.
Bring water, snacks, appropriate clothing for the weather, and sturdy footwear. A camera is highly recommended for the views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a clear day to maximize the visual experience. While there are no specific playgrounds, the natural environment itself provides ample opportunities for imaginative play. Remember to dress children in layers appropriate for the weather, as conditions can change quickly.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
The trails are generally well-marked, though conditions can vary, particularly in winter. It's a popular spot for ultra-runners and those looking to push their limits in a beautiful natural setting. The summit view serves as a fantastic motivator and a well-deserved reward after a strenuous run.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
+1 The compass display also offers a unique element to capture. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to do justice to the expansive scenery. Nature lovers will appreciate the serene environment of Bymarka, with its diverse flora and fauna. The accessibility of Gråakallen makes it easy to combine a rewarding hike with opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the tranquility of the Norwegian wilderness.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bymarka: The Green Lung of Trondheim
Visitors can explore various routes to Gråakallen, ranging from gentle paths suitable for families to more challenging trails for experienced hikers and trail runners. The diverse terrain includes forests, open fields, and smaller hills, providing a rich natural experience. It's common to see people enjoying picnics, photography, and simply soaking in the tranquility of the Norwegian nature.
Beyond Gråakallen, Bymarka offers numerous other attractions, including lakes, cabins, and historical sites. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the urban bustle and reconnect with nature. The accessibility from the city center makes it a convenient escape for both residents and tourists looking to experience the outdoors.
The Allure of the Summit View
+1Social media content frequently highlights the magical light during sunrise and sunset, where the sky is painted with vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the landscape. These times are particularly popular for photographers and those seeking a serene, picturesque experience. The clarity of the view can vary with weather conditions, so checking the forecast is crucial for the best visual reward.
Adding to the summit's charm is the compass-like display, which helpfully indicates the names of nearby peaks and landmarks. This feature not only adds an educational element to the visit but also provides context for the vast landscape spread out before you. It’s a small detail that enhances the overall appreciation of the geographical surroundings.
Gråakallen for Active Pursuits
For those who enjoy hiking, Gråakallen offers a 'low-threshold' summit experience. This means it's accessible for a wide range of fitness levels, making it a great option for families or individuals looking for a moderate outdoor activity. The journey itself is part of the enjoyment, with scenic paths winding through the natural landscape.
In winter, the area transforms into a winter wonderland, suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The snow-covered trails offer a different perspective of the landscape and a chance to enjoy the crisp, cold air. Regardless of the season, Gråakallen encourages an active engagement with nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit