Where to go Hiking in Norway

Norway boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from gentle coastal paths to challenging mountain treks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are trails suited to every skill level and preference. Many trails are well-marked and maintained, making it easy to navigate and explore the country’s diverse landscapes.

The country offers a diverse range of terrain for hikers to explore, from coastal trails along picturesque fjords to high alpine routes through rugged mountain landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a demanding ascent, you’ll find terrain to suit your preferences and abilities.

We’ve looked at why hiking in Norway is so popular and explored some of the most popular areas to hike to provide some inspiration of where will suit you best to visit.

Why is Hiking so popular in Norway?

Hiking in Norway is incredibly popular and deeply ingrained in the country’s culture and lifestyle. Here are several reasons why hiking is so popular in Norway:

Abundance of Natural Beauty

Norway boasts some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world, including towering mountains, deep fjords, pristine forests, and scenic coastline. This diverse terrain provides endless opportunities for hiking and exploration.

Right to Roam (Allemannsretten)

Norway’s “Right to Roam” laws allow people to freely access and explore the countryside, including hiking trails, forests, and mountains, as long as they respect nature and private property. This also includes following the ‘leave no trace’ etiquette to keep trails free from human impact.

Outdoor Culture

Norwegians have a strong outdoor culture and a deep appreciation for nature. Hiking is a beloved pastime and a way of life for many Norwegians, who regularly spend weekends and holidays exploring the great outdoors.

Well-Maintained Trails

Norway boasts an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails, ranging from gentle coastal walks to challenging mountain treks. These trails are maintained by local authorities and hiking organizations, making it easy for people to access and enjoy nature.

Accessibility

Many hiking trails in Norway are easily accessible from major cities and towns, often just a short drive or public transportation ride away. This accessibility makes hiking a convenient activity for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Where are the best places to hike in Norway?

Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue)

With its breathtaking views and thrilling adventure, hiking to Trolltunga is sure to be an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Norway.

Location: Odda Municipality, Hordaland County

Trolltunga is located in the municipality of Odda, in Hordaland county, southwestern Norway.

It juts out horizontally from a cliff about 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet.

Highlights:

Iconic rock formation jutting out over a fjord, offering breathtaking views.

Distance:

The round-trip hike to Trolltunga is approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).

Difficulty:

The hike is considered moderate to strenuous, with steep ascents, rocky terrain, and some exposure to heights.

Duration:

On average, it takes 8 to 10 hours to complete the hike, including breaks and time spent at Trolltunga.

Altitude Gain:

The trail has an elevation gain of about 900 meters (2,950 feet).

The trailstarts at the Skjeggedal parking lot, which is about a 30-minute drive from the town of Odda. There is a shuttle bus available during the peak season (mid-June to mid-September) that runs between Odda and the trailhead.

Romsdalseggen Ridge

Location: Rauma Municipality, Møre og Romsdal County

Romsdalseggen Ridge is located in the municipality of Rauma, in Møre og Romsdal county, western Norway.

The trail starts at the Vengedalen trailhead and ends at the Nesaksla viewpoint.

Distance:

The trail is approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) long, one way.

Difficulty:

The hike is considered moderate to strenuous, with steep ascents, rocky terrain, and sections of exposure to heights.

Duration:

On average, it takes about 6 to 8 hours to complete the hike, including breaks and time spent at viewpoints.

Altitude Gain:

The trail has an elevation gain of about 970 meters (3,182 feet).

The trail starts at the Vengedalen parking lot, which is about a 10-minute drive from the town of Åndalsnes.

Highlights:

The highlight of the hike is the stunning panoramic views of the Romsdalen Valley, with its towering peaks and deep fjords. There are several viewpoints along the ridge, including Rampestreken and Nesaksla, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

The trail passes through varied terrain, including rocky ridges, lush valleys, and alpine meadows, showcasing the diverse geology of the region. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as eagles, reindeer, and ptarmigan that inhabit the area.

Sognefjord

Hiking around Sognefjord in Norway offers stunning vistas of one of the most iconic fjords in the country, surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages.

Sognefjord, or the Sognefjorden, is located in Vestland county, in western Norway.

It stretches over 200 kilometers (about 120 miles) inland, making it the longest fjord in Norway and the second-longest in the world.

Hiking Opportunities:

Aurlandsdalen Valley

Known as Norway’s Grand Canyon, Aurlandsdalen offers breathtaking hiking trails through a dramatic landscape of steep cliffs, lush valleys, and the emerald waters of the Aurlandsfjord. The Aurlandsdalen Valley Trail is one of the most famous multi-day hikes in Norway, taking 2-4 days to complete.

Bergen to Flåm

For a longer hiking adventure, consider the multi-day trek from Bergen to Flåm, known as the “Fjord to Fjord” hike. This trail traverses varied terrain, including mountains, forests, and fjords, offering spectacular views along the way.

Hardangervidda National Park

Hiking in Hardangervidda National Park offers a unique experience in Norway’s largest national park, known for its vast mountain plateaus, wild reindeer herds, and pristine wilderness. Here’s some information to help you plan your hike:

Hardangervidda National Park is located in the counties of Buskerud, Hordaland, and Telemark in southern Norway. The park covers an area of approximately 3,422 square kilometers (1,320 square miles).

Trails:

Hardangervidda offers a network of well-marked hiking trails, ranging from short day hikes to longer multi-day treks.

Difficulty:

Trails vary in difficulty, from easy walks suitable for families to more challenging routes for experienced hikers.

Duration:

The duration of hikes depends on the chosen trail, ranging from a few hours to several days for longer treks.

Altitude:

The plateau of Hardangervidda ranges from about 1,000 to 1,400 meters above sea level, offering relatively gentle terrain for hiking.

Lofoten Islands

Hiking in the Lofoten Islands offers a unique experience, with dramatic landscapes of rugged mountains, white sandy beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. The Lofoten Islands are located in Nordland county, above the Arctic Circle, in northern Norway. The main islands include Austvågøy, Vestvågøy, Flakstadøy, Moskenesøy, and several smaller islands.

Trails

Reinebringen

This iconic hike offers panoramic views of the fishing village of Reine, surrounding mountains, and the sea. The trail starts near the village of Reine and ascends steeply to the summit of Reinebringen.

Trollfjord

For a more challenging adventure, consider hiking to Trollfjord, a narrow and dramatic fjord located on the island of Austvågøy. The hike starts near the village of Svolvær and involves steep ascents and descents, but offers breathtaking views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.

Other popular hiking trails in Norway

Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Length of Time: Approximately 5 hours

Description: The hike to Pulpit Rock is immensely popular. It provides stunning views, has a relatively easy trail, and is conveniently accessible from the town of Stavanger. Standing atop Pulpit Rock, you’ll gaze out over the magnificent Lysefjord. It’s an excellent choice for beginners and families with kids. Just be prepared for crowds during the summer months!

Kjeragbolten

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)

Difficulty: Strenuous

Length of Time: 6 to 8 hours

Description: Hiking to Kjeragbolten involves stepping onto a giant boulder wedged between two cliffs. It’s not only an adrenaline rush but also incredibly fun. Dare to stand on the boulder and take in the awe-inspiring views. This hike is an absolute favorite for adventure seekers!

What is the hiking capital of Norway?

The hiking capital of Norway is often considered to be Tromsø. Located in the northern part of Norway, Tromsø serves as a gateway to the Arctic wilderness and offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Why is Tromsø so popular?

Gateway to Arctic Wilderness:

Tromsø provides easy access to some of Norway’s most pristine and rugged landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and coastal areas.

Variety of Trails:

There are numerous hiking trails in and around Tromsø catering to hikers of all skill levels, from gentle coastal walks to challenging mountain ascents.

Midnight Sun and Northern Lights:

During the summer months, Tromsø experiences the Midnight Sun, allowing hikers to enjoy extended daylight hours for exploration. In winter, it’s a prime location for witnessing the Northern Lights, adding a magical element to nighttime hikes.

Scenic Beauty:

The landscapes around Tromsø are breathtaking, with majestic mountains, deep fjords, and picturesque coastal scenery providing a stunning backdrop for hiking adventures.

Cultural Hub:

Tromsø itself is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, offering plenty of amenities and attractions for visitors to enjoy before or after their outdoor adventures.

When is the best time of year to hike in Norway?

The best time to go hiking in Norway depends on your preferences and the specific region you plan to visit. Here are some considerations for different seasons:

Summer (June to August):

This is the most popular time for hiking in Norway due to the milder temperatures and longer daylight hours.

The summer months offer the best conditions for high-altitude hikes and longer trekking routes, such as those in the mountainous regions of Jotunheimen, Lofoten, and Tromsø.

The Midnight Sun phenomenon occurs in northern Norway during this time, providing extended daylight hours, making it possible to hike at any time of day or night. However, popular hiking trails and tourist areas can be crowded during the summer months, especially in July, so booking accommodations and planning your hikes in advance is advisable.

Late Spring/Early Autumn (May, September):

Late spring and early autumn can also be excellent times for hiking, especially if you prefer quieter trails and cooler temperatures. In May, the landscape begins to awaken from winter, with blooming flowers and melting snow creating a picturesque setting for hiking.

September offers pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and the added bonus of vibrant autumn foliage in some regions. Keep in mind that weather conditions can be more unpredictable during these transitional seasons, so be prepared for varying temperatures and possible rain.

Winter (December to February):

Winter hiking in Norway can be a magical experience, especially if you enjoy snow-covered landscapes and winter sports like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Popular winter hiking destinations include areas with well-marked trails and maintained routes, such as around Tromsø, Lillehammer, or Geilo.

However, winter hiking requires additional preparation, including appropriate clothing, equipment, and knowledge of winter safety techniques. Keep in mind that daylight hours are significantly shorter during the winter months, so plan your hikes accordingly and be aware of the potential for changing weather conditions.

Get Hiking & Trekking Insurance from SportsCover Direct

SportsCover Direct’s trekking and hiking insurance offers three different policy options. Choose travel insurance if you need cover for medical costs, trip cancellation, hiking equipment and more, while hiking either for leisure or competition.

If you already have a travel policy that doesn’t cover you for hiking, our bolt-on policy will complement it and give you the additional required protection. You can also opt for sports accident insurance for cover in the UK.