Ruten-1517 m a.s.l (11 km)

The Ruten (1 517 m a.s.l.) massif is located between Espedalen and Gudbrandsdalen, and is a popular beginner's peak hike for both adults and children – a great trip in summer as well as in autumn.

Follow Peer Gynt vegen to Brendsetra, then follow signs to Ruten diagonally across the marsh. In summer, this area can be a bit wet. Continue along a wide track through the forest up to Rutenråket where it forks, approx. 2 km from Dalseter. Keep left and follow the signs for Ruten. The trail to Ruten is way-marked (T) up to where it forks just before the final climb. Keep right towards the top. The trail to Ruten is way-marked (T) up to where it forks just before the final climb Take the same route back down, or follow the “Willystien” trail to Bingsbu (2.3 km) and then from Bingsbu back to Dalseter (5.5 km).

On a clear day, the Ruten peak offers stunning views from Snøhetta in the north to Gaustadtoppen in the south. It is possible to see 93 of Jotunheimen’s highest peaks (over 2000 m), and as many as four national parks stretching from Jotunheimen in the west to Rondane in the east. If the weather is good, you can see all the way to Gaustadtoppen.

Alternative route down/up:

The “Willystien” trail down:

From the top of Ruten (1 517 m a.s.l.), turn right behind the cairn (seen from Dalseter) and follow the trail down. When you are just above Storbingen, continue through slightly hilly terrain towards Bingsbu. Vesle Ruten will be on your right until you reach the mountain ridge. Follow the trail along the ridge for the final stretch down to Bingsbu. “Willystien” is way-marked with red paint on boulders and small cairns all the way from Ruten to Bingsbu.

Parking available by Dalseter Høyfjellshotell