Ecotrail Trondheim 33K - Preview
Solemsvåttan at 435 meters.
Ecotrail Trondheim 33K: a fast and runnable course through varied terrain
Ecotrail is expanding to Trondheim, and after running the 33K route this weekend, it’s clear what kind of race this will be. This is not a technical trail race or a mountain course. It’s a consistently runnable route where pacing and efficiency will matter more than terrain management.
We started early morning from Utleirahallen. The opening section climbs gradually into the forest, enough to string the field out but not steep or long enough to define the race. Early on, there were still patches of ice on parts of the trail when we ran it, especially in shaded areas. That won’t be a factor during race conditions, but it did highlight how much of this terrain is normally stable and well-prepared.
After the initial climb, the course settles into a rhythm. Large parts of the route follow wide, prepared trails that are used as cross-country ski tracks in winter. These sections are smooth and predictable, making it easy to hold a steady pace. The elevation is present but comes in shorter, rolling segments rather than long sustained climbs.
The highest point of the course is Solemsvåttan at 435 meters. The climb up is relatively steep, but short. It stands out mostly because it breaks the rhythm you’ve built earlier in the race. It’s not technical, but it’s the one section where effort spikes compared to the rest of the course.
From there, the course transitions into more flowing terrain. The descent off Solemsvåttan is runnable and leads gradually toward the coast. Eventually, you connect with Ladestien, which makes up the final part of the route.
Ladestien is straightforward: wide, smooth trails with very good footing. This is where the race can move quickly. If you’ve managed your effort well earlier, this section allows you to maintain or even increase pace toward the finish. If not, it becomes a long stretch where time is harder to gain back.
Overall, the course is defined by its consistency. There are no highly technical sections and no extreme elevation changes. Instead, it’s a route that rewards controlled pacing from start to finish. It’s easy to run fast here, which makes it just as easy to misjudge effort early on.
Ecotrail Trondheim 33K looks set to be a race where positioning and pacing will matter more than technical ability — and where the final kilometers along Ladestien will play a key role in the outcome.
Beyond the race itself, it’s simply a good route to run. The trails are varied, easy to follow, and offer a mix of forest and coastal views that make it enjoyable the whole way through. Definitely a route worth checking out even outside race day.
Along the route: places worth a stop
One of the things that stands out on this course is how many small spots you pass that are worth noting and stopping for on a casual run or hike!
Kafe Spiren
A popular stop for coffee and simple food, known for a relaxed atmosphere and good baked goods. A natural place to start or finish an easy run, especially if you’re heading out from the city side. Located at Reppe Søndre, in a more relaxed terrain of the trail.
Kafe Spiren
Flipper Kaffe
A more casual café option with solid coffee and quick food. It sits in a convenient spot, in the middle of Ladestien on the Ranheim side, if you’re moving between urban sections and the trail network.
Flipper Kafe
Pinnsvin Crossing Antikk og brukt
A small second-hand and antiques shop that stands out a bit from the usual trail surroundings. Not a typical running stop, but a recognizable point and a fun stop along the route. Located at Ranheim, right where you enter or exit the coastal trails of Lade/Ranheimsfjæra.
Sponhuset
Cafeteria
A well-known café in the heart of Ladestien, Ringve. Simple food, good outdoor seating, and a natural meeting place in the forest.
Estenstadshytta
Another classic stop in Estenstadmarka along this trail, especially popular for longer outings. It’s slightly more remote, but fits well into the middle section of the course if you’re out for a longer run or just exploring the trails.
