About This Hike
Vettakollen is a compact forest climb to one of Oslo’s broadest city-and-fjord viewpoints. Take metro line 1 to Vettakollen station, walk uphill on Huldreveien, turn right onto Gulleråsveien and then left onto Bånntjernveien to reach the clearly marked forest path. The direct out-and-back from the station is approximately 3.7 km with 220 metres of total ascent and normally takes about 1.5 hours. Although UT classifies it as an easy walk, roots, stones and the final bare-rock section make it steeper and rougher than a city promenade, particularly after rain or under fallen leaves. From the open viewpoint, the panorama includes central Oslo, Holmenkollen, Nesodden and the Oslofjord. Stay well back from the edge and descend the same marked route unless you have deliberately planned a longer walk. The blue-marked continuation via Båntjern to Sognsvann creates a separate 7.7 km outing with a different finish and transport plan. Do not combine its distance with the short metro return route, and avoid the exposed upper rock in snow, ice, strong wind or poor visibility.
Highlights
- ✓ Panorama over central Oslo, Holmenkollen and the Oslofjord
- ✓ A trailhead reached directly by metro line 1
- ✓ A short forest climb with 220 metres of total ascent
- ✓ Option to plan a separate longer route via Båntjern to Sognsvann
Getting There
Take metro line 1 toward Frognerseteren to Vettakollen station; the trail starts a few minutes away.
Before You Go
Use the metro rather than trying to create a trailhead parking plan: Line 1 to Vettakollen station is the simple start. The direct viewpoint return is 3.7 km; a continuation through Båntjern towards Sognsvann is a different 7.7 km return walk, so download a map before treating the two as one fixed route. The exposed rock can be slick in rain, ice or fallen leaves, so keep well back from the edge and choose another day if footing is poor.
Information checked: September 2026, against UT.no's current route description and public-transport access
⚠️ Safety Notes
- Choose footwear that suits the conditions, especially after rain or in winter.
- Check the weather and daylight before setting out.
- Follow the route that matches your experience and the conditions.