The Ultimate Guide to MTB and Cycling Routes in Voss

 Voss, surrounded by fjords, mountains, and lush valleys, offers mountain biking and road cycling routes for beginners, families, and seasoned riders across every terrain type. Whether you are curious about road bikes for long-distance rides, want to take on technical trails with a full-suspension mountain bike, or prefer a family-friendly ride with the kids, Voss has something for every cyclist.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best cycling and mountain bike routes in Voss, the different types of bicycles available, and show how you can experience this region to the fullest on two wheels.

Road Cycling in Voss

Road bikes are built for speed, efficiency, and distance. With lightweight frames and thin tires, they’re ideal for paved surfaces. In Voss, road cyclists can ride along scenic fjord-side routes, winding valley roads, and challenging mountain passes. 

• Lake Vangsvatnet loop: This is a beginner friendly and scenic bike ride in Voss. It is especially idyllic in spring (around May) when the flowers are in full bloom. 

• Voss - Granvin - Ulvik Loop: A breathtaking route along fjords and valleys, with tunnels and mountain passes.
• Vossevangen to Hardangerfjord: A longer challenge that rewards you with dramatic views of Norway’s most iconic fjord landscapes.

Mountain Bike (MTB) Routes in Voss

Voss mountain biking happens across alpine terrain, dense pine forests, and purpose-built trail networks across every difficulty level. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned enduro enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone. Below are some of the top routes and what you should know before heading out.

Hangurstoppen Trails (via Voss Gondola)

Taking the Voss Gondola up to Hangurstoppen gives you quick access to a network of purpose-built trails. These range from blue lines perfect for intermediate riders to more technical red and black trails (downhill enduro, check out enduro mama trail) with rock gardens, steep drops, and switchbacks.

• Local Tip: If you’re new to the area, start with the easier loops to warm up before tackling the more technical runs. On clear days, the views of Vangsvatnet lake and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking, don’t rush, take a moment at the viewpoints. 

Bike Advice: Downhill MTBs work great for beginners and intermediate on the family ski slopes at Bavallen. You can rent your bikes here.

Bømoen Forest

This is one of the most accessible MTB areas in Voss, just a short ride from the town center. The trails meander through pine forest on relatively flat terrain, with rolling singletracks and gravel paths.

• Best for: Families, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxed ride. It’s also excellent for e-bikers who want an easy cruise. More experienced riders will also have a blast in this area, especially if they want to push it on some beautiful flow trails.
• Local Tip: Bring a picnic. There are several nice spots to stop along the way, especially by the river. Since it’s close to town, it’s a good choice for an evening spin or a “first ride” day. You can either rent a bike and go by yourself or go on a tailored E-MTB guided tour fit for your experience level.
• Season Note: Trails here are usually among the first to dry out in spring, making Bømoen a reliable early-season option.

Raundalen Valley

For those craving a longer adventure, Raundalen delivers. This route takes you deep into rural Norway, with gravel paths, forest trails, and sections that weave past traditional mountain farms. The valley is wide, scenic, and quiet, perfect for riders who enjoy solitude.

• Best for: Strong XC riders or anyone with an e-MTB who wants to cover distance.
  
  
• Local Tip: Pack snacks and water; services are scarce once you’re in the valley. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, you might see sheep grazing along the way.

Sivle and Bordalen

Sivle and Bordalen are all about technical riding and steep climbs. Trails here test your fitness and bike handling skills, but the pay-off is huge: thrilling descents and remote, wild scenery.

• Best for: Advanced riders seeking a challenge.
• Bike Advice: A full-suspension bike is essential, expect roots, rocks, and steep downhill sections.
• Local Tip: If you’re up for it, combine this with a loop from Raundalen for a big day out.

Storåsen (Enduro/Downhill)

Storåsen is Voss's main destination for enduro mountain bike riding, with steep downhill trails that reward commitment and skill.

• Best for: Enduro and downhill riders who want gravity-focused fun. Perfect for experienced riders. Check out our guided tour here.

Local Tip: Check local conditions before heading out, rain can make some trails slick and demandingLønahorgi

For an epic, long-distance ride, Lønahorgi is the crown jewel. This mountain stands tall over Voss and offers a big backcountry ride. The climb is demanding, but reaching the summit feels like a true achievement. The descent is long and technical, with sections that require full concentration.

• Best for: Strong, experienced riders looking for a full-day alpine adventure.

Local Tip: Start early, bring layers, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. It’s a proper mountain environment. A GPS track is highly recommended, as the terrain is vast and not always well-marked.

How to Experience Cycling in Voss

Cycling in Voss isn’t just about the bike, it’s about the experience. Whether you’re exploring with a hardtail MTB in Bømoen, climbing with an e-bike into Raundalen, or racing down singletracks from Hangurstoppen, the variety is endless.

You can rent a mountain bike in Voss from Outdoor Norway's full fleet: road bikes, MTBs, e-MTBs, and kids' bikes, matched to every rider type. More than just rentals, we also offer guided MTB and E-MTB tours, giving you the chance to explore with local experts.

You can even combine your ride with other iconic adventures in Voss:

• Take the Voss Gondola for panoramic views and immediate trail access.
• Add adrenaline by joining a whitewater rafting trip (grade 3) on the Raundalselva River.

Things You Need to Know About Mountain Biking & Cycling in Norway

WHERE CAN YOU RENT A MOUNTAIN BIKE IN VOSS? 

You can rent a mountain bike in Voss from Outdoor Norway's base at the Voss Outdoor Center. The fleet covers full-suspension mountain bikes, e-MTBs, downhill bikes, and kids' bikes. Advance booking is recommended in summer. Guided MTB and e-MTB tours are also available if you want to ride with a local expert rather than navigate independently. 

HOW MUCH EXPERIENCE DO YOU NEED FOR VOSS MOUNTAIN BIKING? 

Voss has mountain biking that covers every skill level. The trails in Bømoen Forest suit complete beginners and families, with gentle singletracks and flat gravel paths. Hangurstoppen's blue trails sit at intermediate level. Red and black trails at Hangurstoppen and Storåsen will need some solid bike handling and prior experience. Lønahorgi is an advanced full-day alpine route. For strong, confident riders only.

IS GUIDED ENDURO MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDING IN VOSS AVAILABLE?

A great option for guided enduro mountain bike riding in Voss is our MTB Enduro tour at Storåsen. Join, and your cover trail conditions, technique, and safety briefings on the day. Prior mountain biking experience is required; this tour is not designed for beginners. Full-suspension bike rentals are available if you don't have your own enduro setup.

WHEN IS THE BEST SEASON FOR MOUNTAIN BIKING IN VOSS? 

Late May through October is the main mountain biking season in Voss. Bømoen Forest dries out earliest in spring and is the most reliable early-season option. Hangurstoppen and the gondola-accessed trails open once the upper snow clears, typically June. Come September and October, you get the driest trail conditions of the year, with significantly fewer riders on the network.

CAN YOU COMBINE MOUNTAIN BIKING WITH OTHER ACTIVITIES IN VOSS IN ONE DAY?

Visitors to Voss often combine a morning ride on Hangurstoppen with afternoon whitewater rafting on the Raundalselva. Other pairings include Bømoen Forest with fjord kayaking, or an e-MTB ride into Raundalen with SUP on Vangsvatnet after.

Explore with Outdoor Norway

Whether you’re a road cyclist chasing long fjordside loops, a mountain biker craving technical descents, or a family looking for fun forest trails, Voss has it all. With the right bike and the right route, you’ll discover why this Norwegian town is considered the adventure capital of the fjords.

So next time you’re in Voss, get ready to pedal into an unforgettable experience on two wheels, powered by your legs or with the extra boost of an e-bike. Check out our guided tours here.