[4] As a consequence of its position above the rest of the city (from 100 to 300 metres (330 to 980 ft) above sea level) there is more snow on Byåsen during the winter than in lower parts of Trondheim.

Bymarka, located on the southern and western part of Byåsen, is a large recreational area with forest and lakes, which is very popular for cross country skiing in the winter season.

The weather conditions and the extensive network of cross country tracks in this area helped Granåsen, an outdoor winter sporting arena situated at the south end of Bymarka, in hosting the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in 1997.

This line is called the Strandline (Strandlinje) and is most easily spotted from Kristiansten Fortress which is located to the east of the city centre.

A path following Strandlinje is today popular with visitors to the city forest area of Bymarka which covers the most elevated parts of Byåsen.