The Canal Route, or Kanalruta, follows National Cycle Route 2 inland through Telemark. Between Ulefoss and Dalen, the ride pairs a historic waterway with lakes, wooded scenery and the engineering of the canal’s locks. Visit Telemark describes it as a challenging trip for experienced cyclists, with locally hilly roads and opportunities to divide the journey into shorter stages.
From Ulefoss towards Dalen
The marked cycling section runs for 115 km from Ulefoss to Dalen. Visit Telemark suggests breaking it into stages and recommends two to three days for the full ride. The route can be ridden in either direction, so a plan can begin with the places a rider most wants to visit or the connections available for the return.
Ulefoss sits by Lake Norsjø, while Dalen lies farther inland. The journey passes locks, lakes and small towns; Visit Telemark also points to cafés, farm shops and viewpoints along the way. Lunde is a useful reference when dividing the route, with a section from Ulefoss and another continuing towards Dalen.
Locks and canal history
The canal is more than a backdrop: its stone chambers, large gates and opening mechanisms are part of the journey. At Eidsfoss, cyclists cross a lock; Visit Telemark identifies this as the only lock crossed by bike on the route. Vrangfoss, the largest lock facility on the canal, is another place to stop and appreciate the scale of the waterway.
At the Dalen end, Dalen Hotel dates from 1894 and is known for its architecture and history. It is one of several accommodation options listed by Visit Telemark along the route, alongside places in Lunde, Kilen and Vrådal.
Riding conditions and supplies
Expect both asphalt and gravel, with hills in places. Visit Telemark grades the route challenging and considers it best suited to experienced cyclists. The route is signed, but riders should still check their intended itinerary and current local conditions before setting out.
Services are limited on parts of the route, particularly between Vrådal and Dalen. Plan food and water around the day’s intended distance, and check accommodation and opening arrangements before relying on a stop. Visit Telemark lists places to eat in Ulefoss, Lunde, Vrådal and Dalen.
Combining the ride with the canal boat
Telemarkskanalen notes an important gap for anyone approaching from Skien: there is no suitable cycling alternative between Skien and Ulefoss, so the official cycle route uses the canal boat for that section. This means the canal-side journey should not be planned as a continuous ride from Skien.
A boat can also form part of a return journey from the cycling section. Passenger services are seasonal and the canal does not operate in winter. Consult Telemarkskanalen’s current timetable and check bicycle arrangements with the operator before building a trip around a sailing.