Nittedal: River, Forest and History

The Nitelva shapes Nittedal: it flows from north to south through the valley floor, with fertile fields and pastures on both sides. The 37-kilometre-long river begins in the north as the Hakadalselva. The surrounding landscape also defines the destination: Lillomarka and Gjelleråsen lie to the south, Romeriksåsen to the east and Nordmarka to the west. The river, forests and local history offer a range of starting points for planning your trip.

Valley and Forest Landscapes

In northern Nittedal, Rundkollen and Brunkollen are located in the Rundkollen Nature Reserve. Large parts of the protected area consist of old-growth forest and old, nutrient-poor bilberry spruce forest; pine forest is also found here. Nearby, Gjelleråsmarka borders Nittedal to the north. It has an extensive network of forest trails and ski trails, as well as several fire pits.

Salamanderparken was established to help conserve salamanders and inform the public, and was designed as a wheelchair-accessible learning space. The forest right by Salamanderparken and near Galleri Würth is home to five of the six amphibian species native to Norway and three of the country’s five terrestrial reptile species. These species counts refer to the surrounding forest.

Winter Sports and Trails in the Green

In Hakadal, Varingskollen Alpinsenter has six ski slopes and two terrain parks. You can reach the centre by train or car. Options include ski school for adults and children, ski activities for children, and private alpine skiing lessons. Skis and snowboards can be rented for a full day, and there is also a ski shop. Check the latest operating and rental information before making plans, as seasonal availability and rental policies may change.

Those who want to explore Nittedal by bike can follow “Nittedal på langs,” a route through the valley floor. Possible detours lead into Nordmarka and Romeriksåsen. Another option for walks and bike rides in the forest is Hakadal Verk on the old Greveveien, a popular starting point. The estate itself is not generally open to visitors without special arrangements.

Local History and Churches

Nittedal Bygdesamling is part of Nittedal Bygdetun and is located in the “1880 building” by Hagen School in northern Nittedal. Its exhibition “Jernet i bygda vår” tells the story of ironworking, from bog iron ore to mining. Various furnaces illustrate the range from bloomery furnaces to blast furnaces.

The two churches also offer insights into different periods of construction. Hakadal kirke is the parish church of Hakadal in Nittedal. The rectangular wooden building dates from around 1610, has 150 seats and is a roadside church. Nittedal kirke was built in 1869 on the site of the older stone Olavskirken, which dates from the 12th century.

Remains of Nittedal Kruttverk are located along Ørfiskebekken. A marked trail and information boards make it easier to explore the traces and buildings. A digital local-history walking game starts at Hakadal station and uses a smartphone to guide visitors through the area via 21 stations. Check in advance whether the game is currently available.

Activities and Events

You can fish along the Nitelva at spots such as Åros Bru, Mølleparken in Rotnes, Strøm and Rulse bru without a fishing licence. Check the local regulations before fishing. With the free Stolpejakten Nittedal orienteering activity, people of all ages and experience levels use a dedicated app to find marked posts in Nittedal; the activity returns each year.

Nittedal Matfestival takes place every year in September. If you want to plan your trip around the festival, check the latest dates in advance. This makes it easy to combine exploring the valley and outdoor activities with a visit to the festival, according to your interests.

Discover more destinations: Hakadal, Nes, Nesodden, Bærum, Hurdal, Gjerdrum, Ullensaker, Ski

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