The Besseggen Ridge in Jotunheimen

The Besseggen Ridge is one of the most popular hikes in Norway. The spectacular walk on the ridge between the Bessvatn and the Gjende lake is of intermediate difficultay and takes 7 to 9 hours.

The Bessegen Ridge is one of the most famous mountain hikes in Scandinavia.

It attracts around 60.000 visitors a year. Most people who enjoy the 17 kilometers hike choose to start their trip taking the boat from Gjendesheim to Memurubu from where you start you walk back to Gjendesheim over the Besseggen ridge.

It is also possible follow the well marked trail by the lake Gjende from Gjendesheim to Memurubu and take the boat back, or stay at Memurubu overnight, and hike back the day after. The route follows the old path dating back to the times when Memurubu was a mountain farm. Today Memurubu is a modern, high standard lodge, suitable for longer stays and as a base for daytrips, for instance to Surtningssui (appr. nine hours).

Along the way over the Besseggen ridge, you pass the dark blue lake Bessvatn and the emerald green lake Gjende. The strong green colour appears because small glacier particles are reflected by the sun. Enjoy your lunch with views of the Gjende Alps.

On your way you reach an altitude of 1743 meters above sea level at Veslefjell - marked by a large stone cairn. Hiking this magnificent trail, you spend a total of 7 to 9 hours in the cleanest and crispiest air on the European continent. 

More information about the hike: Hiking the Besseggen Ridge