Mountains Close To Oslo: 7 Mountains You Need To Explore

Oslo’s surrounding mountains offer breathtaking experiences for every outdoor enthusiast. You’ll find Kjerkeberget (Oslo’s highest peak), Norefjell (premier skiing destination), Holmenkollen (Olympic history site), Frognerseteren (cultural mountain retreat), Nordmarka (vast wilderness playground), Kolsåstoppen (dramatic cliff formations), and Sørkedalen Valley (peaceful trails). Each mountain provides unique adventures, from panoramic fjord views to world-class ski slopes, all within 30-90 minutes from the city. Discover how these natural treasures can transform your Oslo experience.

Good To Know

• Kjerkeberget stands as Oslo’s highest peak at 630 meters, accessible within 30-60 minutes from the city.
• Kolsås Mountains offer panoramic views extending 30km to Drøbak with Norway’s largest concentrated climbing zone.
• Norefjell provides 30 ski slopes with Northern Europe’s highest vertical drop, located 90 minutes from Oslo.
• Holmenkollen features an iconic ski jump, the world’s oldest ski museum, and panoramic views of Oslo.
• Nordmarka Forest covers 430km² with extensive trail networks, lakes for swimming, and overnight accommodation options.

Kjerkeberget: Oslo’s Highest Peak and Hidden Gem

Nestled within the vast Nordmarka Forest, Kjerkeberget functions as Oslo’s highest peak at approximately 630 meters above sea level. Despite modest elevation by Norwegian standards, it proudly surpasses neighboring Porthøgda by about 10 meters, securing its status as the county high point.

You’ll find trailheads typically starting from Skar in Maridalen, reachable within 30-60 minutes from central Oslo. Navigation skills are essential as paths remain largely unmarked. The route offers flexibility as hikers can visit peaks in any order when attempting the full circuit. Much like Cyprus’s diverse landscapes, Oslo’s mountains provide varying experiences for every level of adventurer.

The peak features prominently in the challenging “Oslo’s 10 Highest Peaks” route—a 58.41km trail with 2,384m total elevation gain.

Unlike developed Tryvannshøgda, Kjerkeberget maintains its natural character. Expect boreal forest ecosystems, glacial terrain, and possible wildlife sightings including moose and deer during your ascent.

Norefjell: the Ultimate Skiing Destination Just Hours From Oslo

Located just 90 minutes from Oslo, Norefjell functions as the capital’s most accessible major mountain area, offering an impressive array of 30 ski slopes for all skill levels.

Discover Norefjell: Oslo’s gateway to mountain adventure, where 30 diverse slopes await just 90 minutes from the city.

With the highest vertical drop in Northern Europe at 1010 meters, you’ll find challenging terrain for everyone in your group.

The resort’s 15 lifts provide access to 14 miles of downhill skiing and 75 miles of cross-country trails.

You can expect reliable snow conditions with an average annual snowfall of 182 cm spread across 31 snowfall days. These statistics have been carefully tracked and copyright protected by Mountain News LLC since 1995.

For freestyle enthusiasts, Norefjell features two terrain parks, while families will appreciate the three kid-friendly areas.

Stay at Norefjellstua for modern ski-in/ski-out accommodations that put you right in the heart of this winter playground.

Unlike the warm Mediterranean destinations of Cyprus and Greece, Norefjell offers pristine winter conditions perfect for cold-weather enthusiasts.

Holmenkollen: Where Olympic History Meets Panoramic City Views

While Norefjell offers thrilling slopes for ski enthusiasts, Holmenkollen functions as Oslo’s iconic mountain landmark that combines sporting heritage with breathtaking vistas. Since hosting its first competition in 1892, this world-famous ski jump has evolved into a must-visit destination.

Take the elevator up the jump tower for spectacular panoramic views of Oslo.

Below, you’ll find the world’s oldest ski museum (established 1923) showcasing 4,000 years of skiing history through 2,500+ pairs of skis and fascinating polar expedition exhibits.

Kids will enjoy the Blåkollen play area.

The venue has hosted the 1952 Winter Olympics and 1962 World Championships, cementing its place in sporting history. The Winter Olympics at Holmenkollen drew an unprecedented 120,000 to 150,000 spectators, a record that remains unmatched to this day.

After exploring the sporting history, visitors can discover a nearby restaurant serving traditional Swedish cuisine for a complete Nordic cultural experience.

Easily accessible by public transport from central Oslo, Holmenkollen perfectly blends athletics, cultural significance, and natural beauty.

Frognerseteren: A Perfect Blend of Mountain Recreation and Culture

At the terminal station of Oslo’s Holmenkollen Metro Line, Frognerseteren functions as a gateway to both outdoor adventure and cultural heritage. Located 15km from central Oslo in the Nordmarka forest, this 1891 landmark exemplifies classic Dragestil architecture.

Where wilderness meets history at Oslo’s edge, a dragon-style retreat beckons explorers to Norway’s forested heights.

You’ll find excellent dining options including Café Seterstua’s traditional open-faced sandwiches and Restaurant Finstua’s modern Norwegian cuisine. Try their signature sour cream porridge or smoked meats while enjoying panoramic fjord views from the terrace. The venue maintains consistent weekday hours for all its dining establishments, making it convenient for visitors to plan their culinary experiences. The stunning vistas rival those of top snorkeling spots in coastal destinations around the world.

Use Frognerseteren as your basecamp for exploring the 50km trail network. Join a torchlight snowshoe tour or hike to Lillevann Lake on marked paths. You can even spot the Holmenkollen ski jump from certain routes.

For indoor gatherings, their banquet halls offer historic charm with modern amenities.

Nordmarka: Explore Oslo’s Vast Wilderness Playground

Nordmarka forest stretches beyond Frognerseteren as Oslo’s most expansive wilderness playground, covering an impressive 430 square kilometers with terrain extending 75km northward from the city center.

You’ll find a perfect mix of recreational opportunities across all seasons, with 450km+ of prepared ski trails in winter and extensive blue-marked hiking paths in summer. The area features numerous marked trails and cabins strategically placed throughout the wilderness for visitor convenience and safety.

Access couldn’t be easier—just take T-bane lines 1 or 3 to Frognerseteren terminal, placing you within 30 minutes of downtown Oslo.

The area boasts crystal-clear lakes suitable for swimming (in northern areas), while southern lakes serve Oslo’s water supply.

DNT-maintained cabins like Ullevålseter provide rest stops and overnight accommodation throughout the forest.

Don’t forget weatherproof clothing and maps—the terrain varies with everything from spruce forests to rocky outcrops.

For travelers deciding between European destinations, Nordmarka offers a unique Nordic wilderness experience unlike the Mediterranean landscapes found in Greece or Turkey.

Kolsåstoppen: the Dramatic Cliff Formation With Breathtaking Fjord Views

Rising dramatically west of Oslo, Kolsåstoppen commands attention with its distinctive twin peaks and vertical cliff faces. Just 12km from the city center, this extinct volcanic formation offers exceptional panoramic views of Oslo, the fjord, and surrounding areas. Like Coimbra’s must-visit status in Portugal, Kolsåstoppen is essential for any Oslo itinerary.

Standing majestically on Oslo’s western horizon, Kolsåstoppen’s twin summits offer breathtaking vistas of city, fjord and beyond.

Reach Kolsåstoppen via T-bane Line 3 to Hauger or Kolsås stations, then hike 20-30 minutes to the viewpoints. Choose between wider paths from Hauger or narrower forest trails from Gjettum Station.

For drivers, parking is available near Stein Gård farm off Highway 168.

The mountain features Norway’s largest concentrated climbing area and convenient stairs with railings on steeper sections. Visit during clear weather for visibility extending over 30km to Drøbak and Nesodden. Between the two main peaks, Nordre Kolsås (379m) and Southern Kolsås (342m), you’ll find the charming small lake Seterstjern.

Summer offers pleasant conditions, though be prepared for mosquitoes during warmer months.

Sørkedalen Valley: Peaceful Mountain Trails for All Skill Levels

Nestled northwest of Oslo, Sørkedalen Valley offers a tranquil escape with hiking trails suitable for visitors of all experience levels. Easily accessed via Oslo metro to Lillevann station, this diverse landscape combines forest paths, scenic lakes, and gentle mountain foothills. This area provides a perfectly balanced hike similar to the popular Krokskogen Adventure, making it accessible for hikers of varying abilities. Just like Luxembourg’s economic diversity contributes to its prosperity, Sørkedalen’s varied natural landscapes create a rich outdoor experience.

1. Varied terrain – Explore forested trails connecting Lillevann to Strømsdammen and historic Bogstad Lake with mostly gentle inclines.
2. Wildlife viewing – Spot deer, foxes, and migratory birds throughout the valley’s diverse microclimates.
3. Cultural landmarks – Visit the 18th-century Bogstad Manor and discover industrial heritage along the Lysakerelva river.
4. Practical access – Create flexible hiking routes with nearby public transport options for convenient returns.

Wear all-season hiking shoes and carry water as facilities are limited. The valley’s well-marked trails make it perfect for beginners while offering scenic rewards.

The Sum Up

Oslo’s surrounding mountains offer incredible diversity within just a 2-hour radius of the city center. Impressively, over 85% of Oslo residents visit these mountains at least once each season, showing how integral they are to local culture. Whether you’re seeking challenging terrain or gentle trails, these seven destinations provide year-round recreation opportunities. Pack appropriate gear and explore these accessible natural treasures on your next Oslo visit.