Drogsetmoen: Orkla, Hiking and Mining History

Getting There and Planning Hikes

AtB bus route 5602 runs from Meldal via Storås and Dragsetmoen to Meldal vgs/Svorkmo. It does not run during school holidays. A timetable valid from 18 August 2025 lists this route and the restriction. Check the current timetable before travelling; if you depend on the bus, take the school holiday periods into account when planning your dates.

Two driving routes are listed for reaching the starting point of the Våttån hike from Bjørnli: via Fv 700 at Løkken Verk or via Rv 65 at Drogsetmoen. These are two specifically named access routes that you can compare when planning your journey.

The Orkla and Fishing

Steinshølen is near Drogsetmoen, farther upstream in the Orkla river system. An offer is available for salmon fishing at this pool. Check specific dates and availability before planning; also confirm access and the applicable fishing rules before arranging a fishing trip.

There is also a box in Drogsetmoen where you can pick up and drop off envelopes for fish scale samples. If you want to use this specific service, confirm in advance that the collection point is available.

Hiking and Cultural History

In old Meldal, the Pilegrimsleia runs as a distinct regional pilgrimage route; it is 25.5 kilometres long.

In Meldal, a distinct regional hiking trail runs along the eastern side of the Orkla and provides access to Meldal prestegård. The parsonage was protected in 1991, and its garden is included in the protection. Here, a described route meets a clearly dated cultural heritage site.

In Bjørnli, the route of a never-built tramway remains as a distinct regional feature; it is used as a hiking trail. The trail thus brings attention to a transport project that was never built, although its route remains visible in the landscape.

The Thamshavnbanen, which runs between Løkken Verk and Bårdshaug at Orkanger, is part of the distinct regional context; it is considered the world's oldest AC-powered railway. Today, it operates as a heritage railway between Løkken Verk and Bårdshaug at Orkanger. If you plan to take a ride, check dates and departures in advance.

The Orkla Industrial Museum is in the centre of Løkken Verk; as a distinct regional attraction, it offers insight into 333 years of mining history. Bjørnli Haveby is a distinct regional example of mining heritage: the settlement was established in connection with mining in Løkken, with homes for workers, foremen, and mine supervisors. The museum and the residential settlement thus represent different aspects of the region's mining history.

Holum Gård is part of the distinct regional context of Meldal, Orkland; the farm welcomes groups, families, and other interested visitors by prior arrangement. Gunn Elin Folland talks about her sheep breeds and the wool products made from them; visitors can see the sheep up close. Arrange your visit with the farm in advance.

Discover more destinations: Meldal, Løkken Verk, Storås.

Go to the main travel overview: Meldal.