Gravel cycling in Etnedal — the quiet gem
Etnedal is Valdres' least known valley for cyclists — and perhaps the best. Here is a complete guide to gravel, nature, and tranquility in Langsua country.
Is Etnedal good for gravel cycling?
Yes — Etnedal is Valdres' most underrated cycling valley. Three gravel routes (19–37 km), almost zero traffic, and Langsua National Park right nearby. Easily accessible from Fagernes (45 min). Suitable for all levels.
While most cyclists head for Beitostølen, Mjølkevegen, or Valdresflya, there is one valley in Valdres that stays quiet. Etnedal.
Not because it is lacking anything. Because people haven't found it yet.
What makes Etnedal special for cyclists?
Etnedal is an elongated side valley stretching southward from Fagernes. The Etna river — known as one of Norway's best paddling rivers — runs through the valley, and Langsua National Park borders it to the west. There are no dramatic mountain peaks here, but there is something else: tranquility.
Three things set Etnedal apart from the rest of Valdres:
- Almost no traffic. The forest roads were built for timber transport, not tourists. You might meet one tractor on a three-hour ride.
- Long season. The routes in the valley floor are accessible from April to November — longer than most mountain routes in Valdres.
- Wildlife. Moose, fox, and rich birdlife along the Etna make this a nature experience in itself.
The three cycling routes
Etnedal Skogsveirunde — 22 km, 180 hm ⭐ Beginner-friendly
The easiest entry point into Etnedal. The route follows old forest roads along Etnedalsvannet through spruce forest with calm water and rich nature.
- Distance: 22 km loop
- Elevation gain: 180 hm
- Time: 1.5–2.5 h
- Surface: Gravel and forest road
- Suitable for: Beginners, families with older children, e-bikes
Start from Bruflat centre. The first section is flat and calm — perfect for finding your rhythm. Halfway into the forest, the view opens up towards a woodland lake with swimming opportunities in summer. Take a break, listen to the birdsong, and turn back whenever you like.
Nord-Etnedal rundt — 37 km, 480 hm ⭐⭐ Intermediate
More content and more challenge. The route passes four mountain farm areas and follows the Etna river for most of the ride.
- Distance: 37 km
- Elevation gain: 480 hm
- Time: 3–4 h
- Surface: 85% gravel and forest road, 15% asphalt
- Suitable for: Cyclists with some experience, gravel enthusiasts
Stop at Gamlestølen mountain lodge if you want a hot meal along the way — book well in advance, as this is a small place with limited capacity.
Steinsetfjorden rundt — 19 km, 160 hm ⭐ Family-friendly
Shorter and more varied. Half asphalt, half gravel. Perfect with children who have cycled a bit before, or as a first outing on gravel terrain.
- Distance: 19 km
- Elevation gain: 160 hm
- Time: 1–2 h
- Surface: Gravel and asphalt (50/50)
- Suitable for: Families, beginners, short days
Start from Steinset and follow the fjord — open farmland and birch forest alternate throughout the ride.
Practical information
Getting there: By car from Fagernes takes approx. 45 min via E16 and Rv34. Parking in Bruflat centre is free. There are no direct bus routes to the routes themselves.
Accommodation: Gamlestølen mountain lodge is the only place to stay in the valley. In Fagernes there is a full range of hotels and cabins 45 min away.
Food and water: Bring food for forest rides — Bruflat has a shop, but opening hours are limited. Water from the Etna river can be drunk with a filter.
Mobile coverage: Weak to no coverage on parts of the forest roads. Download maps offline (Komoot or Maps.me) before you go.
Can it be combined with something else?
Yes — Etnedal works well as a "recovery day" between demanding mountain routes. If you ride Valdresflya one day, Etnedal is perfect the day after.
Or combine cycling with paddling on the Etna — one of Norway's best rivers for experienced kayakers. Paddle equipment rental is available in Bruflat.
Who is Etnedal suited for?
- Cyclists who want nature without crowds
- Gravel beginners looking to build confidence
- Families with children from age 10–12 (Skogsveirunde and Steinsetfjorden)
- E-bike riders who want a long, relaxed day out with minimal stress
It is not Valdres' most spectacular valley. But it may be the most relaxing. And sometimes that is exactly what you need.
All routes can be downloaded as GPX via valdres.no. Contact Fagernes tourist information for updated road conditions.