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Finding Myself in Bymarka: Hikes, Healing, and Hidden Gems in Trondheim

  • 6 days ago
  • 4 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

11 Years and 11 Favorite Places in Trondheim: Part 2


Bymarka isn’t just a place for hiking or skiing: it’s where I have found friendships, solitude, strength, and eventually, a way forward when life felt like it was falling apart. Over time, these trails became more than routes on a map; different spots hold chapters of my life.


While going through the initial stages of my separation and divorce, I came to think of Sunday mornings in Bymarka as my “church.” I would hike (or ski), often solo. As someone who used to go to church weekly, I find this did for me what church did. No outside noise or distractions, just space to think, to process, to slowly put things in perspective. Maybe a friend to hug, if not, I always brought my journal, and there were always tree friends, friendly Norwegians, and very cheerful staff at the cabins. 



Here are some of the places in Bymarka (and just beyond) that shaped my Trondheim story, and some links to how you can experience them too.


5. Geitfjellet, Ilabekken & The First Spark of Adventure

It all started with a hike to Geitfjellet, my first time joining a meetup group, my hike in Norway. I remember the mix of nerves and excitement, not sure what I was getting into or how hard the hike would be (or how nice the people would be). 


Soon after, I discovered Ilabekken, where small waterfalls and forest paths create a calm, almost meditative atmosphere. It quickly became one of my spots, where I can return when I need quiet or some good cardio!


For views, Driftsveien delivers every time. Wide, open, and endlessly scenic, it’s the kind of place that reminds you to stop walking and just look.


And then there’s Theisendammen: just one of around 50 lakes in Bymarka. Each lake has its own unique charm and pros and cons. They are each worth checking out. This one happens to be very close to a bus stop and is pretty flat (compared to other areas).

👉 Check out your options here: https://ut.no/utforsker/omrade/1224/bymarka 


6. Olavsspranget: Walking Through a Fairytale Forest

Olavsspranget and the paths to it are MAGIC. Lots of different types of trees, soft moss underfoot, and a quiet that makes your imagination wander. I firmly believe that if there are trolls or fairies in Bymarka, they live here. 


7. Storheia & Gråkollen: Sunlit Peaks and Shared Memories

On a sunny, clear day, there is no better place to be than Bymarka on the trails to Storheia and Gråkallen. I love coming here solo and have lots of good memories with friends. These are two of the highest points in Bymarka, and on a good day, you have a 360-degree view of Trondelag. (along with the chance of high wind and annoying flies).


Storheia offers the bigger adventure, while Gråkollen is shorter but still rewarding!



8. Winter in Bymarka: Skiing, Friendship, and Muscle Memory

Winter changed everything.


My first ski trip was to Elgsethytta. I showed up with borrowed skis and zero confidence, but left with new friends and curiosity of how this skiing thing might be made easier. 


You can even take bus 18 up to Skistua, making it one of the easiest ways to access the trails.


Over the last 9 winters, skiing here has become instinctive. The movement, the rhythm, the tracks: it’s all muscle memory, baby! The first ski trip here every year brings thoughts (or loud proclamations) of, “Ja, vi elsker dette landet.”


👉 Check ski (or rain) conditions: https://skiklubben.no/foremelding/


9. Storsvingen: Evenings in the Lysløype

My first winter in Trondheim left me ski-curious; my second winter, I was committed to learning. 


I established a routine of skiing 1-3 times per week, more often than not. I tried to get out for a morning ski every weekend, and once after work, heading to the VERY well-lit trails at Storsvingen. 


There’s something SO cool about skiing in the dark, under lights, that makes it sort of feel like “sunshine.” You have the rush of endorphins, a warm body, and all the light reflecting off the snow. It’s an excellent place to chase sunshine in the dark winter months. 


10. Grønlia & Lianvatnet: A Place to Begin Again

Gronlia is another magic spot for me. Taking the tram up there feels like stepping into an older, softer, quieter world. From Grønlia, it’s a short trip to Lianvatnet: a lake that became my refuge after my separation.


It was where I came to breathe, to sit with everything, and eventually, to start over. It’s also where I had some of my first dates the following spring: a reminder that healing and hope can exist in the same place.


Grønlia itself is incredibly cozy. And the lake view? Honestly, 12/10.

👉 Plan your tram trip: https://www.atb.no/en/travel-planner/


11. Ladestien: Where the Forest Meets the Fjord

When I needed a change of scenery, I headed to Ladestien.


This coastal trail offers something different: forest paths opening up to sea views, small beaches, and several perfectly placed cafés. It’s where hiking meets the ocean.

It’s also where I joined a kayak club during COVID, took lessons, and earned my våttkort. 


Paddling along the fjord added a whole new perspective on Trondheim and occasionally unforgettable encounters with dolphins and sea otters.



Final Thoughts: More Than Just Trails

My favorite places in Bymarka and town have given me more than places for coffee, hikes, and views.


It gave me people. They have given me safe spaces for some of the best and hardest moments of my life. 


My challenge to you

  1. Take a trip to one of these spots and invite a friend!

  2. What spots did I miss? What are your favorite spots in Trondheim? Send me a message or share in the comments!

  3. Reflect: what support might I need to chase sunshine in 2026?

    Do you want more sparkle and sunshine in your everyday life - not just the fleeting kind, but the kind that sticks? Ready to stop shrinking and start shining (and maybe chase a bit more sunshine too)? Let’s talk. Book a 15-minute chat, and we’ll explore what your next chapter could look like and how I can support you (or your group) in creating Sustainable Sparkle. https://calendly.com/esturdy/quick-chat




 
 
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