The Østerdalen Pilgrim Path in Short: From Rena to Trondheim in Three Weeks

Planning to walk the enite Østerdalen Pilgrim Path? Here is a three-week itinerary that takes you all the way from Rena to Trondheim. 

For more detailed day-by-day description, see:

• Route description: Rena - Tynset
• Route description: Tynset - Trondheim 

Week 1: Rena - Otnes (108 km) 

Your journey begins at Nesvangen, by the Pilgrim's Bend where the rivers Glomma and Renaelva meet. 

Between Rena and Deset, you'll pass cultural landmarks and areas rich in birdlife before continuing across flat pine forests, past Pilgrimshaugen, and along forest roads. At Søre Grønvoll, you’ll pass the site of Løsset—a former prison camp for Russian prisoners of war during World War II.

From here, the trail follows the Rena River before turning onto a path at Dalby and continuing along Storsjøveien. At Eriksbekken, a steep ascent of around 700 meters awaits.

You’ll then walk parts of the historic Kjølvegen, pass Trolltjønna and Netsjøen, and continue on a longer stretch toward Lia Gård.

The route continues across Bjønnåsen, past the Greek Orthodox Fotini Chapel, and along the historic Moraveien. From here, you’ll walk on gravel and paved roads until you reach Åkre, where the eastern and western routes meet, before continuing to Otnes.

Where to Stay

During the first days, you’ll find several cabins and huts along the route. On day five, you’ll reach Lia Gård, which offers excellent accommodation. Be sure to check availability in advance and book where required.

Week 2: Otnes - Dalsbygda (111 km)

From Otnes, the trail follows farm roads along the river toward Bergset in Øvre Rendal. From here, you’ll face a steep climb to Storbekktjønna on Fonnåsfjellet, before descending along the mountainside to Skorsåa.

The route continues across mountain terrain covered in soft reindeer lichen, down toward rest areas near Skarsjøen and further toward Søndre Kvanntjønn.

You’ll then descend into Tylldalen, pass the local museum, and continue toward Tynset via Småvangan. Along Gamle Allemannsvei, the trail leads toward Vingelen and onward to Dalsbygda.

The final stretch to Dalsbygda is a long 28 km stage, combining road, forest paths, and easy terrain. Here you’ll find Joker Dalsbygda—the last grocery store before Singsås.

Where to Stay

Along this section, accommodation is simple but varied. You’ll find options such as small farms, mountain cabins, lavvus, and basic tourist huts—many with cooking facilities.

From Tynset to Dalsbygda, there are several accommodation options available.

Week 3: Dalsbydga - Trondheim (156 km)

From Dalsbygda, the trail leads into Forollhogna National Park, offering longer and more remote stages through wilderness.

You’ll gradually reach the high mountains, walking through open and dramatic landscapes between Forollsjøen and Forollhogna before arriving at Storbekkøya.

The journey continues through rural roads and summer farm areas before climbing toward Tåvåfjellet along the historic “Kjørkvegen,” then descending to Singsås. From here, the trail passes a historic stave church and continues through forests, wetlands, and mountain terrain across Samsjøvola to Samatun.

From Samatun, the trail winds through rolling forest landscapes and cultural sites before crossing Vassfjellet near Øyvindtjønna.

And then—it happens. For the first time, you’ll catch sight of Nidaros Cathedral.

From here, the trail descends to Rødde before the final stage into Trondheim. You’ll walk through cultural landscapes along the Nidelva river, pass Øvre and Nedre Leirfoss, and finally enter the city. The route takes you past Lerkendal Stadium, St. Olavs Hospital, and across Elgeseter Bridge.

And just like that—you’ve reached your destination.

Where to Stay

Early in the week, near Såttåhaugen, you can book accommodation with traditional food at Spellmovollen. Along the way, several pilgrim huts offer scenic places to stay.

In Singsås, you’ll find multiple accommodation options before the final days into Trondheim. We recommend stocking up on groceries at Coop Prix Singsås, as this is the last store before reaching the city.

Once in Trondheim, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation—from luxury stays at Britannia Hotel to riverside comfort at Scandic Nidelven, often praised for having one of Norway’s best hotel breakfasts.

If you’re still in hiking mode, you can even camp in Bymarka just outside the city.