Grefsenkollen Viewpoint Hike, Oslo

The Grefsenkollen hike is an accessible woodland escape within Oslo, with views across the capital, the Oslofjord and surrounding hills. This version follows the western side of Grefsenåsen rather than simply driving to the viewpoint at the top.

From Akebakken into the forest

The UT.no route starts at the Akebakken bus stop in Grefsenkollveien. After following Akebakkeskogen, a visible but unmarked footpath climbs through the forest. Some sections are steep, and several paths cross one another, so follow a map as well as the route description.

Views across Oslo

As the trail approaches the ridge, clearings reveal the city below. Higher up, viewpoints open towards the harbour, islands, Nesodden, Holmenkollen and the hills surrounding Oslo. The route continues towards the Grefsenkollen restaurant area, where a larger parking area is located.

Route details and access

UT.no describes this particular return route as 3.2 km, about one hour, with easy overall difficulty, although its steep sections may feel harder. Public transport to Akebakken is a sensible option for the start; there is no public parking at the trailhead on Grefsenkollveien.