Kayaking on the Glåma River

The event company Turskredderen offers short trips, one day trips and overnight trips, and the trips always start with basic instructions about paddling and safety.

We are a group of seven, and those who have never been in a river kayak are somewhat nervous as the experienced guide pushes us onto the river. But the water is shallow and the kayaks steady, and everyone soon feels safe.

Paddling

The kayaks are shorter and wider than sea kayaks, and they are steady to the point that it is hard to tip it around or fall out of them.
 
As we glide down the calm river, we do not need to use much strength, we just steer with the big oar. We pass people standing on the river banks fishing for grayling and trout, and we are hoping to witness a moose or other kind of wildlife ashore.

Fishing

About half way on the trip, we stop and drag the kayaks ashore. In an old forge the tour organisers have made coffee in the fire place, and our guide Arne tells stories from the area. Close by is an old mansion, that is restored and let out to large groups of fishermen during the fishing season. Fishing in the river is good, with lots of grayling and trout.

When to go

Turskredderen arranges kayak tours on Glåma from 10 June to 1 October.

How to get here

Fly into Røros and travel southwards, with a rented car or by bus or taxi.
Arriving from south, you drive the Østerdalen Valley, through Alvdal and Tynset before you reach Tolga where the kayak trip starts. Tolga is is small village in the county of Hedmark.

Where to stay

Staying at a farm in the mountain village of Vingelen is strongly recommended. You can also stay at Røros or Tynset. Arrange your stay through Røros Reiseliv.

Text: Frederik Amundsen