Keipen in Balestrand

Mt. Keipen in Balestrand

The trip goes from the fjord to the high mountains, and gives a spectacular view of the Sognefjord with the fjord arms Vetlefjorden and Fjærlandsfjorden and the beautiful Fjærland mountains.

Experience a journey from fjord to mountain with botanical diversity and the best views in the area!

Good to know (length, slope, terrain, views, requirements, equipment, etc.):

The trip goes from the fjord up the highest mountain in the area and stops at several beautiful viewpoints. The terrain is not technically difficult, but the trip is in gradually steep terrain, and we recommend solid mountain shoes with good support for the ankles. It is a good idea to bring poles with you for the return.

Clothing that is suitable for trips in the high mountains must be brought - even if it is hot and summer by the fjord, you can encounter completely different conditions in the mountains. Make sure you can stay dry and warm - and during breaks. Bring a solid lunch, enough drinks and extra clothes. Check the Weather condition on Yr.no - Do not walk if there is strong wind, a lot of rain or fog.

Tour description

The trip starts at the information board in Esebotn. Follow the tractor road on the west side of the field. Then the path continues up towards Yglebotn. Just over a kilometer into the valley, you have to cross the river. This is difficult before the snow has melted. Be prepared to wade. After the river crossing, the path continues into the magnificent Yglebotn, on the old path to the mountain ridge in Langedalen.

When you pass the stone with the year "1885" engraved, take the path to the right that goes steeply up towards Gulleplestølen. The trail continues on the east side of Gulleple, and further up southwest of Bjønnabreen Glacier (1400).

From Bjønnabreen Glacier you get a good view west from the highest point. Follow the distinctive ridge to the east to Keipen, where you get a view straight down to Sværefjorden and Esefjorden. Follow the same ridge back towards the glacier, and turn north / northwest towards the cairns. You have to pass a small piece of the glacier.

Important information

Parking: Parking in Esebotn

Distance: 12-14 km

Duration: 7-9 hours

Difficulty: Challenging

Season: June - September

Toilet: Please note that there are no public toilets on the trip to Keipen

Water: Fill your bottle with water before the trip as there may be limited access to water on the trip. This is a long trip so bring plenty of drinks.

Leads are mandatory between April 1 and November 1. Your dog must not run loose.

NB: in summer and autumn there can often be new, invisible ice on the glacier, so be careful and examine the surface before going out. You come on the north side of Øvre Trollabotnvatn. The path follows down towards Dalsdalsvotni, where you pass the small cabin Erlingsbu. The cabin is open and you seek shelter if the weather is bad or you need to take a break. Follow the marked path from Dalsdalsvotni, down past the small mountain farm Påfunn and through the forest to the parking lot in Dalsdalen.

If you want a lighter variant of the trip to Keipen, you can start and end in Dalsdalen (300 masl).

Season: June - September

The trip is a total of 12-14 km long, and has an altitude difference of almost 1500 measured depending on where you go.

Advice for hikers

Bring plenty of food and drink.

Bring extra warm, wind and waterproof cloth.

Stick with the people you go with - never leave anyone.

Help us take care of our nature! Please bring all your trash back with you. Throw it in the trash bins in the parking lots.

Planning your hike

Before embarking on any hike, it’s essential to check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and ensure you have the necessary equipment, especially for challenging hikes. The overview maps and information about the trip in this brochure is only for inspiration. Do not use this map for the hike. Buy a proper map or contact a guiding company in the Sognefjord.

We're delighted to have you visiting - thanks for showing respect and care during your stay.

1. Use marked toilets and trash bins

2. Stick to marked trails and roads

3. Don't feed the animals

4. Respect private property

5. Keep left on roads and use sidewalk to give way to local farmes

I am Sognefjord