Winter Cycling in Røros and Østerdalen

We've got a recommendation for you! An activity that isn't all that common in winter, namely winter cycling. Here you can read about local cycling enthusiasts, rental operators and cycle-tour guides sharing routes and tips for winter cycling in Røros!

What is winter cycling?

With the right equipment, such as a fatbike or a mountain bike with studded tyres, you can safely navigate icy roads and trails. Dress warmly in layers, and remember lights and reflectors to stay visible. Winter cycling isn't just a great way to stay fit — it's also a wonderful way to experience the calm and beauty of nature in winter.
 

Where can I cycle in winter in Røros and Østerdalen?

Røros and Østerdalen offer plenty of opportunities for winter cycling, including multi-use trails, dog-sledding tracks and snowmobile routes. Guided tours can help you find the best trails and make sure you're riding on safe, firm ground. Here are 5 popular cycling routes in Røros.
 

Nils Henning Øglænd, cycling enthusiast and owner of Røros Guide

Nils Henning Øglænd runs Røros Guide and is an enthusiastic winter cyclist — on a fatbike, of course.

"What's so fun about cycling in winter is that you get a completely different experience of nature, one you really can't compare to summer. Since you're not following summer's well-trodden paths but instead have access to multi-use trails (used by dog-sledders and others) that are groomed in winter, you reach places you wouldn't normally go. You're always above the tree line, with a great view and right in the sunshine. It's an absolutely raw nature experience. Because the trails are groomed up on the mountain plateau, you have to climb upward with your bike — which makes the way down all the more fun. The lovely thing about winter is also that if you fall off the bike at high speed, it takes a lot to really hurt yourself when you land in the snow."

Øglænd goes on to explain that the best time for winter cycling is in March and April, when there's a firm crust on the snow and you can ride everywhere.

"It's wonderful in January and February too, but shorter, colder days mean slightly fewer opportunities. But my goodness, this time of year is absolutely magical on the bike if it's a little milder. Sometimes May offers a rare, perfect snow crust. And minus 10 on an April day with brilliant sunshine — that has to be experienced."

Kristoffer Kippernes, editor of Terrengsykkel.no

Kristoffer Kippernes is the editor of the website Terrengsykkel.no and is, naturally, a cycling enthusiast through and through. He's been an active cyclist of every kind since he was 12, with mountain biking as his main pursuit. He also likes to combine cycling trips with camping.

Kristoffer says he keeps coming back to Røros and Østerdalen to cycle.

"Røros and Østerdalen is one of the finest places I've ever been and ridden. Here the terrain is easily accessible and you get good flow," he says enthusiastically. People who cycle off-road care a lot about good flow — but what does that actually mean?

"There are probably as many definitions of good flow as there are cyclists. My definition of good flow is narrow, lovely trails, ideally animal tracks, paths without roots, rocks and other obstacles in the way. You'll find that in abundance in this region!"

For winter cycling it's all about the fatbike, which gets through where ordinary mountain bike tyres have to give up in the snow. Conditions are perfect for a fatbike when the ground is soft and other bikes have to give in. A fatbike floats on top of the snow, but that doesn't mean you can simply set off into any snow. You need a certain base underneath you. A snow-covered trail has to be quite well packed before you can ride it on a regular mountain bike, Kristoffer explains.

The conditions for winter fatbiking are exceptionally good in Røros and Østerdalen. Few other places in the country — if any — have as many dog-sledding tracks as here. These tracks are very well suited to fatbiking. Fatbike enthusiasts in the region also like to use hiking trails that are walked in winter, as well as snowmobile tracks.

  

A perfect winter landscape in the Røros region 

"Røros and Østerdalen is one of the finest places I've ever been and ridden. Here the terrain is easily accessible and you get good flow."

The landscape in Røros and Østerdalen is made for cycling, too. To the uninitiated, mountain biking can seem extreme and rough, but the terrain in Røros is gentle, according to Kippernes. He lived in Oslo for a few years and knows the forests there well. "The terrain in the Oslo woods is full of rocks and roots. I've cycled in Tynset, Alvdal and Røros, and here there aren't those huge climbs either. When you have to ride up steep hills, you need firmer ground. That's why good fatbike terrain on snow should be without big climbs. Gentle plateaus are great! It's easier to keep up your speed under your own power. That gives a wonderful sense of mastery and speed, whether you're a beginner or experienced," says Kristoffer.

A fatbike gives a truly special and raw experience as you float on top of the snow out across the plateau, Kristoffer believes. At the same time, he reminds us of what matters most when you're out in nature, whether by bike, on foot or on skis: peaceful coexistence. "We're lucky to have the right to roam here in Norway, but the responsibility that comes with it is just as important. Everyone has to be considerate of other kinds of activity in nature. For example, the conflict that was predicted between fatbikes and skiing never came to anything. That's probably because cyclists rarely get much enjoyment out of riding in ski tracks anyway. And should you meet others, you simply show consideration and adjust your speed — then everyone gets a good experience out in nature."
 

DID YOU KNOW THAT … 

• A fatbike is a mountain bike with very thick tyres — hence the name fatbike. The fatbike was developed for riding on snow, but many people now also use them for trail riding in summer. 
• Global Fat Bike Day falls on the first Saturday of December every year. The day aims to build community through group rides and social events. It's marked in different ways all over the world; in Norway, fatbike enthusiasts tend to gather for off-road rides.
   

FAQ
 

What kind of bike is best suited for winter cycling?

A fatbike with wide tyres gives the best grip on snow and ice, but a mountain bike with studded tyres also works well. These options ensure stability and control on varied winter surfaces.

How should I dress for winter cycling?

Layering is key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Also remember warm gloves, a beanie under your helmet, and waterproof shoes or shoe covers to stay warm and dry.

Is it safe to cycle on ice and snow?

Yes — with the right preparation and equipment, winter cycling can be safe. Use studded tyres for extra grip, adjust your speed, avoid sudden movements, and stay aware of conditions. Be sure to stay clearly visible with lights and reflectors, especially in the dark or in poor visibility.