Rakkestadfjella is the largest continous forested area in Indre Østfold. With over 80km of marked trails and 70km of cross-country skiing trails, it’s a great recreation area right in the middle of the wilderness, used by locals in both summer and winter. Pine forests dominate the landscape, which is dotted with ponds, lakes and marshes. You can swim and fish in many lakes in summer, and ice-skate and go cross-country skiing in winter.
One of the easiest ways to access Rakkestadfjella is to drive to Skrabberud, from which trails lead in various directions. Follow road 124 from Rakkestad – you’ll see a sign on your left after about 6.5km, then follow the dirt road for another 7km. There is a 20kr toll on the way.
South of Rakkestadfjella lies Linnekleppen, one of the best viewpoints in Østfold. On a clear day, and armed with a good pair of binoculars, you can make out Gaustatoppen at Rjukan on the other side of the Oslo Fjord. See separate entry on this blog at http://www.elusivemoose.eu/2009/10/walk-linnekleppen/