Ride the Iconic Gråkallbanen Tram

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The tram ride takes about twenty minutes to reach the final station at the Lian terminal. Lian serves as a popular starting point for many beautiful best cross-country skiing trails in Bymarka. You will enjoy spectacular views of the city and the fjord during the steep climb. Adult tickets cost approximately 42 NOK for a single trip within the main city zone.

You should download the AtB mobile app to purchase your digital tickets before boarding the tram. The tram cars are designed with extra space to accommodate your skis and other bulky winter gear. Please remember to signal the driver if you wish to get off at smaller intermediate stops. This route is perfect for those who want to combine transport with a sightseeing experience.

Take the Local City Bus Network

Local buses offer many convenient routes to reach different parts of the vast Bymarka forest area. Bus line number 26 is the best choice for reaching the popular Skistua cabin and trailhead. This bus departs frequently from the main transit stops located throughout the Trondheim city center. The total journey time to the top is roughly twenty-five to thirty minutes on average.

Skistua is widely considered the heart of the Bymarka skiing area for both locals and tourists. You will find a cozy cafe and several major trailheads right next to the bus stop. Buses run very frequently throughout the winter season to accommodate the high number of active skiers. You can check the latest schedules on the official Visit Trondheim website or the AtB app.

Another excellent public transport option is taking a bus to the modern Granåsen ski center nearby. This world-class facility hosted the World Ski Championships and offers professional-grade trails for all skill levels. It is a great alternative if you want to avoid the higher elevations of the forest. Ensure you have your gear ready by checking where to rent skis in Trondheim center before you depart.

Driving and Parking in Bymarka

Driving a private vehicle gives you the most flexibility for your winter trip into the Norwegian woods. Most parking lots located near the main trailheads require a small daily fee for all visitors. You must use the SmartPark mobile app to pay for your parking spot upon arrival. Prices for a full day of parking usually range from 50 to 100 Norwegian Krone.

Popular parking areas include the lots at Henriksåsen, Smistad, and the large facility at Granåsen ski center. These lots often fill up very quickly on sunny weekends during the peak winter months. You should aim to arrive before 10:00 AM to secure a good spot for your car. Remember that high-quality winter tires are mandatory for driving anywhere in Norway during the year 2026.

The mountain roads are usually well-plowed but they can still become quite icy and slippery at times. Always check the local weather forecast and road conditions before you head out for the day. Driving is the ideal choice if you are traveling with a large family or heavy equipment. This flexibility allows you to attend various Trondheim winter events 2026 without following a strict bus schedule.

Skiing Directly from the City Center

Some adventurous locals prefer to ski directly from their homes into the edges of the forest. You can start your journey from the Ilsvika or Byåsen neighborhoods if there is enough snow. This method requires a good amount of snow at the lower elevations within the city limits. It is a fantastic way to save on transport costs while enjoying a longer workout.

The initial climb from the city streets is quite steep and can be challenging for some. It provides an excellent cardiovascular workout for experienced cross-country skiers looking for a real challenge. Follow the clearly marked paths to reach the main plateau where the snow is more consistent. You will notice that snow conditions improve significantly as you gain more altitude above the city.

Always carry a digital or paper map because the forest is large and trails can be confusing. Many of the main trails are lit at night to allow for safe evening skiing sessions. These lit tracks are perfect for a short trip after the sun sets early in winter. Ensure you stay on the marked paths to avoid getting lost in the dense trees.