Cycling in Trondheim
The world’s first bicycle lift and 200 km of cycling paths
Overview
Trondheim is Norway’s cycling city by design, not by accident. The city invested in bicycle infrastructure decades before it became fashionable. The Trampe bicycle lift — a metal plate that pushes your right foot while you sit on the saddle — was installed in 1993 at Brubakken, the steep hill between Bakklandet and Kristiansten Fortress.
The lift was rebuilt as the CycloCable in 2013 with modern technology. It remains the only public bicycle lift in the world. The 130-meter ascent takes 90 seconds. Locals use it daily for the commute up from the river valley. Visitors use it once and take the stairs after that.
The city’s 200 km of cycling paths connect every district. The main route follows the Nidelva river south from Bakklandet to Lade, passing through parks, under bridges, and along the riverbank. The route is flat, paved, and separated from car traffic. In summer, it extends to the Lade peninsula and the beaches at Korsvika.
Trondheim Bysykkel (city bikes) are available from April to November. Stations are spread across the city centre. The first 45 minutes are free with registration. For longer routes, dedicated bike rental shops near the train station offer multi-speed bikes and e-bikes.
Highlights
CycloCable Bike Lift
The world’s only public bicycle lift. 130 meters up the Brubakken hill in 90 seconds. Put your right foot on the metal plate, hold the bike, and the cable pulls you up. Free to use.
Nidelva Riverside Route
Flat, paved cycling path along the Nidelva river. Bakklandet to Lade: 6 km, 25 min. Passes under Gamle Bybro, through parks, and along the fjord shore.
City Bike Share
Trondheim Bysykkel: April–November. Register online. First 45 min free. Stations across the city centre. Ideal for short hops between Nidarosdomen, Bakklandet, and Ravnkloa.
Lade Peninsula
Continue the Nidelva route east to the Lade peninsula. Korsvika beach: sand and shallow water, swimmable June–August. The Ladestien coastal trail circles the peninsula — 8 km loop.
Practical information
CycloCable location
Brubakken hill, base of Bakklandet. Look for the metal rail in the road surface. Free. Operates May–October, 07:00–20:00.
Bike rental
Trondheim Bysykkel: free first 45 min with registration at bysykkel.no. Dedicated rental shops near the train station offer day rentals (250–400 NOK) and e-bikes (400–600 NOK).
Best route
Bakklandet → Nidelva riverside path → Lade → Korsvika beach. 12 km one way, flat, 45 min at leisure pace. Return the same way or loop via Lade peninsula (add 8 km).
Safety
Cycling paths are separated from car traffic on main routes. Helmet not legally required but recommended. Lock bikes at designated racks — bike theft is common in Norwegian cities.
Plan your Trondheim trip
Trondheim has more to offer. Explore the full city guide or browse other Norwegian cities.