Korgen
The DNT cabin Rabothytta is dramatically situated at 1200 metres altitude, on the very edge of the Okstindbreen glacier. The cabin enjoys a stunning view of the glacier, as well as the Okstindan mountain range and its ruling summit Oksskolten, the highest mountain in Northern Norway.
A mountain trail network
Rabothytta draws visitors for its architecture as well as the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. For hikers, it fills a “gap” between the older cabins Kjendsvasshytta and Gråfjellhytta. Rabothytta was completed in mid-August 2014, and the Hemnes chapter of the Norwegian Trekking Association can now offer more extensive accommodation along with a great trail network to hikers yearning to explore Nordland’s majestic Okstindan range. The cabin is self-service (unstaffed) and accommodates 30 overnight guests.
Perfectly situated
Rabothytta is perfectly situated for winter as well as summer visitors. From the closest road it can be reached in about 1.5 hours in the summer, passing through beautiful mountain terrain. In the winter, cross-country skiers should allow about three hours for the trip up to the cabin.
Honouring Charles Rabot
The cabin is named in honour of Charles Rabot, a French glaciologist, ethnographer and explorer who was passionate about the Arctic landscape and its peoples. Rabot was particularly fond of Helgeland, and especially the Okstindan mountains. Rabothytta cabin has a striking design, robust and simple, by architects Jarmund/Vigsnæs. Their plans for the cabin are currently honoured by a display in La Galerie d’Architecture in Paris.
Hemnes turistforening
The cabins are run by Hemnes Turistforening (HTF), the local chapter of the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). For prices for day visits and overnight stays, see www.htf.dnt.no. An online calendar shows on which dates accommodation is available. To make a reservation, please send an email to [email protected].
Season
The hiking season lasts from mid-June until October. The best skiing season is from January-February until May-June. NB. In the table above, please note the list of access roads that are closed in the winter. If you are driving, make sure your car is equipped with good winter tires!
Trail maps and crampons
An informative trail map (scale 1:50,000) with suggested hikes may be purchased from Hemnes Turistforening, and at Circle K gas stations in Korgen. Crampons are also available for rent at the stations.
A selfie on the glacier?
Many visitors are tempted to photograph themselves on the glacier. But please be sure to bring the necessary safety equipment, and show the utmost caution. The constantly shifting glacier can be lethal! Crampons and safety lines are a must, and any hiking on the glacier is at your own risk.
Please bring back your trash
Perhaps you’re looking forward to a much lighter backpack on your return trek? Even though there are cabins in Okstindan, there is no trash service. In order to keep our beautiful wilderness pristine, we rely on you to take all empty bottles, cans and other trash with you and dispose of them properly back in the nearby village.
A smart backpack – with everything you need
Conditions are often demanding in the Okstindan mountains, and the weather may change suddenly – irrespective of good weather forecasts. For your own safety, please always bring the following equipment: trail map and compass, extra warm clothes, raingear and windproof clothing, warm mittens and hat, extra food and beverage.
Source: Visit Helgeland