Storhornet

If you stand in the center of Oppdal and look west, you'll see the majestic and towering mountain massif of Storhornet, rising to 1598 meters above sea level. It's easy to be drawn to and fascinated by this mountain, as its formations don't feature sharp ridges or airy traverses.

As early as 1946, the people of Oppdal recognized Storhornet's allure for hikers and built a stone hut at the summit. The materials were transported up with horse and cart in the summer of 1945, and the hut was constructed from stones that the volunteers found in the area. For 70 years, the hut has stood firm through many northwestern storms and heavy snowfalls, serving as a shelter from the weather for hikers’ cold fingers and toes.

The reason for Storhornet’s popularity is that the hike is manageable for most people, whether on alpine touring skis or cross-country skis. The long and gentle incline makes it a safe choice on days with high avalanche risk. Both locals and visitors ascend the marked trail almost daily throughout the winter. The trail is about 10.2 km long with an elevation gain of 940 meters. It takes approximately 3 hours to reach the top.

It’s not always the summit that’s the goal of every mountain hike, but when you reach the final incline on Storhornet and step onto the flat area where the stone hut stands, you can feel the joy of the hike tingling through your body. It’s a delight to enjoy your packed lunch outside, sheltered by the sunny wall of the stone hut. From here, you can see all the way to Snøhetta to the south and Gjevilvatnet, Blåhøa, and Gjevilvasskamban to the northwest. A beautiful view!

Then it's time for the descent, and there are many options here. You can traverse for a while to reach steeper terrain or follow the "normal route," the same path you used for the ascent. You can vary the trail down through the forest, where it's fun to play a bit on small hills and knolls.

And who knows, you might encounter a herd of reindeer during your hike. And remember to close the door of the stone hut so that the snow doesn't blow inside.

Directions: From Oppdal center, follow Rv 70 for about 11 km until you reach Festa. Leave the main road and follow the signs to Gjevilvassdalen. After passing Festa Handel, take the first left turn (just after the containers). Immediately after the bridge over the river Festa, you'll reach a junction; keep right here. After about 800 meters, you'll find Breen farm on the right side of the road. There is a designated parking area here, with a fee.