Slådalsvegen Cycling

Slådalsvegen Road allows you to experience stunning views of the national park region at the heart of Norway. The road takes you over Slådalen Valley from Lesja to Vågå, opening up to wide vistas of Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella, Dovre, Rondane, Jotunheimen and Reinheimen national parks.

Cycle through an agricultural landscape where sheep, cattle, and wild reindeer graze. On either side of the road are tiny mountain farm settlements. You’ll discover several cultural heritage sites bearing witness to the former hunting of wild reindeer.

The route is demanding, with a tough ascent from Lesja to the mountain plateau. If wishing to avoid the steepest and longest uphill climbs, park at the top of the plateau, for example, at Fauttjønn, and start your trip from there. 

Car

Turn off Road 136 in the center of Lesja. Park at the northern side of Road 136, straight opposite Lesja municipality building. Parking is free.

Alternatively, start at Vidflotten Ski Stadium. Take Road 496 (Vestisdevegen) to Slådalsvegen. Park at the stadium. Slådalsvegen begins from here. Slådalsvegen is a toll road, so if wishing to drive further, you’ll need to pay using a credit card (50 NOK).

Train

Lesja is situated on the Rauma railway, between Dombås and Åndalsnes. If you’re coming from Oslo or Trondheim, take Dovrebanen to Dombås and exchange trains there.

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Slådalsvegen Road travels mainly along the old road between Lesja and Vågåmo in Vågå municipality. The graveled road is easy to cycle along without too much traffic. From the bike seat, you get to experience the incredible surrounding alpine landscape.

The highest point on the trip is 1,180 meters above sea level, so it’s quite a tough climb past the tree line. The terrain evens out at the top of the mountain plateau. 

The descent to Vågåmo is perfect if you like long downhill rides. Remember to fasten your helmet and look out for grazing animals on the road. 

• Slådalsvegen Road is usually open from mid-May until the snow comes in autumn

• If you would like to stretch your legs, the hike to Gråhøe is recommended

• Be aware of sheep and cattle grazing along the mountain road. Dogs must be kept on a leash 

• Close to the parking in Lesja, you’ll find the grocery store Joker Lesja

• Lesja innkjøpslag sells hiking equipment 
  

• If you’re looking for a place to buy locally sourced food, Avdemsbue general store is an excellent option. This authentic general store dates back to the nineteenth century, and lies about 3 kilometers west of the center of Lesja, along Road 136. Here you can buy locally sourced cheese, beer, cured meat, and other delicacies
  

Accommodation in Lesja:

• Lesja Gjestgiveri offers hotel and cabin accommodation

• Kolstad Farm offers apartment accommodation in traditional surroundings. There are also camping facilities

Accommodation in Vågåmo:

• Vågåvatnet Feriesenter offers cabin accommodation