Trail Running to Ulriken: Routes for Runners

Bergen’s running mountain

At 643 metres Ulriken offers serious elevation gain, varied terrain and a summit panorama as the reward. The mountain is genuinely part of Bergen’s running culture — local clubs organise group runs here, and on a summer evening you will not be alone on the trail. The routes below cover everything from a first attempt at a mountain ascent to a full traverse for experienced fell runners.

Montana to the summit — the classic

3.5 km one way. Around 550 metres of climbing. 30–60 minutes. The most popular ascent, starting from the Montana neighbourhood. The trail begins in forest, opens onto exposed mountain and finishes at the cable car station. Red trail blazes mark the way and navigation is straightforward.

Here is the local habit worth copying: most runners take the cable car down. You get the full uphill effort without the pounding of a long technical descent, which is what actually wrecks knees. Recreational runners should allow 45–60 minutes; fit runners get up in around 30.

Haukeland to the summit — the steeper option

A more direct and considerably steeper line from near the cable car base station. Shorter, but more intense, and less used than the Montana trail, so it feels remote despite being close to the city. The route is not officially marked but is clear from frequent use. This one suits interval work and hill repeats rather than easy running — maximum elevation in minimum time.

The Vidden run — advanced only

Roughly 13 km. Elite runners cross from Ulriken to Fløyen in under two hours; most should allow three to four. The technical difficulty is low — no scrambling — but the exposure and distance make this a serious undertaking. The plateau offers no shelter, and weather can turn severe quickly. Marking is clear, but poor visibility causes navigation problems even for people who know the route.

This is not a route for runners new to trails. Attempt it only in settled conditions, with navigation you trust and supplies for longer than you plan to be out.

Practical advice

Trail shoes are not optional — the rock here is unforgiving on road soles, and rolled ankles are the most common injury on the mountain. Carry water: 500 ml for a short ascent, 1.5 litres for the Vidden. Bring a wind layer even for a 30-minute run, because Bergen’s mountain weather turns faster than any forecast suggests.

Check the cable car times before you set out if you plan to ride down — they change with the season, and the walk down in the dark is longer than it looks from the top.