The Arctic town's historic center sits near excellent fishing spots and winter activity areas. Local culture thrives with year-round events, while hiking trails lead through fjord landscapes.
Steinkjer, a town in north-central Norway, sits at the northeastern end of Trondheimsfjord where the Steinkjer River meets the sea. You can climb to the world's largest garden chair at Oftenåsen mountain, swim in Lake Snåsavatnet, or join thousands of music fans at the Steinkjerfestivalen in June. The surrounding landscape includes dense spruce forests, working farms, and six major lakes.
Train and Road Connections
Take the train from Trondheim Airport Værnes to Steinkjer in 90 minutes along the Nordlandsbanen railway line. The E6 highway runs through the town, connecting it to major Norwegian cities. The central train station is located on Kongens Gate, the town's main street, with regular connections to both Trondheim and Bodø.
Oftenåsen Viewpoint and Hiking
Walk or drive to the 4.75-meter-tall garden chair atop Oftenåsen, 336 meters above sea level. Built in 2013, it weighs 2.5 tonnes and carries the names of two local trail builders carved into its back. The viewpoint overlooks the fjord, Ogndalen valley, and Lake Leksdalsvatnet. Access the mountain's network of marked hiking trails from the parking lot at the base - trails range from 30-minute walks to full-day hikes.
Music Scene and Cultural Centers
Local punk rock bands have shaped Steinkjer's music identity since the 1980s. During the Steinkjerfestivalen each June, bands perform on stages throughout downtown, including the main stage at Guldbergaunet Stadium. Throughout the year, catch live music at Rock Bar, watch films at the cinema, browse the town library, or swim laps at Dampsaga Bad's indoor pool complex.
Lakes and Agriculture
Six lakes encircle Steinkjer: Gilten, Fossemvatnet, Leksdalsvatnet, Mokkavatnet, Snåsavatnet, and the Bangsjøene group. Each lake has designated swimming areas and fishing spots - rent fishing equipment at the sports shop on Kongens Gate. The sheltered location creates mild conditions, with summer temperatures often reaching 25°C. More than 1,000 farms operate within the municipal boundaries, growing barley and wheat in the lowland areas.
Bridges
The 94-meter network arch bridge across Steinkjerelva river opened in 1964 and was the first of its type worldwide. Twenty-five kilometers south, cross the Skarnsund Bridge, a 1,010-meter cable-stayed bridge spanning the Skarnsundet strait. This engineering achievement connects the region to the Atlantic Ocean and remains Norway's longest cable-stayed bridge.
