Hike for the little ones? Elgtjønna and Kåsrandin are perfect options.
Oppdal offers many beautiful and easily accessible hiking destinations suitable for the whole family. Around the village, you’ll find small lakes, forest trails, and picnic spots that invite play, relaxation, and nature experiences – without the trip being too long. It’s all about spending time outdoors together, enjoying nature, and creating lasting memories in the mountain village of Oppdal.
Foto: Martin I. Dalen
Popular family hikes in Oppdal
Elgtjønna – perfect for a short trip in nature
Elgtjønna is a popular hiking destination for the whole family – a peaceful oasis just a few minutes from the town center. A gentle gravel path winds around the small pond, surrounded by pine forest, birdsong, and fresh mountain air. Along the water, you’ll find benches, a shelter, and a fire pit – perfect for a picnic or a cup of cocoa in the sunshine. The area offers beautiful nature and birdlife, and the trail is suitable for both strollers and little feet. Elgtjønna is simply a small haven where young and old alike can slow down and enjoy nature together.
Length: There is a 1.7 km gravel road leading to the pond, and about a 1 km loop trail around it.
Location and access: 2 km east of the town center. Turn off the E6 just north of Oppdal center toward Fritidsparken, drive over the railway bridge, and take the first road to the left, signposted “Orkelsjøveien.” Continue straight ahead to the large parking area by Skytterhuset. The trail starts at the timing booth to the right of Skytterhuset, where you’ll also find an information board about the hike.
Foto: Martin I. Dalen
Foto: Marius Rua
Kåsrandin – perfect for the children’s first “real” mountain hike
Kåsrandin is a small viewpoint with big charm – a short, safe, and family-friendly hike from Oppdal’s town center. The trail winds through light forest terrain, with a few slightly steeper sections that provide just the right amount of challenge for both children and adults. After a brief ascent, the landscape opens up to a beautiful view of the village and surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find a cozy shelter and benches where you can take a break, light a fire, or enjoy your packed lunch with a view. A perfect little hike – close, easy, and wonderfully atmospheric.
Tip: Bring food, drinks, snacks, and maybe binoculars – the view over Oppdal makes reaching the top extra exciting for the kids.
Length: Approximately 1.5 km one way, with about 120 meters of elevation gain.
Location and access: You can reach Kåsrandin by parking in Kåsen and following the well-marked trail up through the pine forest. After about 1 km, you’ll reach a junction where you turn right (follow the sign to Kåsrandin) to walk the final 250 meters to the shelter. The trail is marked as M7.