Gråkallen
Trøndelag
Gråkallen is a prominent 552-meter tall mountain located in the Bymarka area within Trondheim Municipality, Trøndelag county, Norway. It is the second highest point in Bymarka and situated in the Byåsen part of Trondheim. The summit features an abandoned fenced military installation, including a radar dome that was part of the Norwegian Air Force's control and warning system. Historically, there were two radar domes, white and grey, but the white dome was lost during the storm Ivar in 2013. The radar station was decommissioned in 2002, and the radar head is now managed by the Luftforsvarets stasjon Mågerø. Additionally, Gråkallen hosts a radio beacon used for aviation navigation. Below the summit lies the Gråkallen ski station, operated by Trondhjems Skiklub, which offers ski runs in winter and hiking and mountain biking trails through pine forests in summer. The area also includes the Gråkallen Skileik ski play area and a popular café called Skistua. The mountain's name combines the Norwegian words for "grey" and "old man," a common metaphor for mountains in Norway.
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Tip: The best time to visit Gråkallen is during winter for skiing or summer for hiking and mountain biking along the scenic trails. Visitors are advised to check bus schedules for access to the ski station and consider purchasing tickets or passes in advance during peak seasons. The area offers discounts for club members and families. Remember to dress appropriately for changing mountain weather and bring navigation aids if hiking beyond marked trails.
Interesting facts
- •Gråkallen is the second highest point in the Bymarka area of Trondheim.
- •The mountain's name means 'grey old man,' a typical Norwegian metaphor for mountains.
- •There was originally a white radar dome that was destroyed in the 2013 storm Ivar.
- •The radar station on Gråkallen was decommissioned in 2002 and is no longer operational.
- •Gråkallen hosts a non-directional beacon radio navigation aid used by aircraft.
- •Trondhjems Skiklub operates the ski center and ski play area at Gråkallen.
History
Gråkallen has long been a notable natural landmark in Trondheim's Bymarka.
The mountain's radar station was part of Norway's air defense system, established during the Cold War era.
Originally, it had two radar domes, but the white dome was destroyed in the 2013 storm Ivar.
The military radar operations ceased in 2002, with control transferred to another station.
Over time, Gråkallen has evolved from a strategic military site to a recreational destination with established ski facilities and hiking paths.
Place Guide
Summit Military InstallationCold War era - 2002
The fenced summit area contains an abandoned military radar installation that was part of Norway's air defense system. It includes a radar dome that was once one of two, the other destroyed in a storm.
Gråkallen Ski Station
Located below the summit, this ski station is accessible by bus from Trondheim. It offers ski runs in winter and transforms into hiking and mountain biking trails through pine forests in summer.
Skistua Café
A popular mountain café near Gråkallen providing refreshments to visitors during ski season and summer excursions.
