Hiking in Norway
Find your path
We Norwegians walk – a lot.
When the spring arrives and warm rays of sunlight finally shower the landscape, forcing the snow in the mountains to a silent retreat, people of all ages head outdoors and go trekking.
We hike up small, massive, steep, and rugged mountains …
… down deep evergreen valleys …
… along the coast …
… and into dense forests, all over the country.
Alone. Together. In sunny weather and pouring rain.
Many travellers choose hiking as a way to explore the raw beauty of the north, to conquer some of Fjord Norway's most iconic mountain formations ...
… or to walk on a glacier on a guided tour.
If you are craving a proper challenge, you can step it up in one of Norway’s spectacular mountain stairways.
Our 47 national parks, which are free and open to the public all year round, are further playgrounds for recreational adventures.
Softer trekking options are also available – many trails are marked according to difficulty, so make sure you pick a route that suits your fitness level.
And regardless of what path you choose, remember to rest well.
The mountain code
1. Plan your trip and inform others about the route you have selected.
2. Adapt the planned routes according to ability and conditions.
3. Pay attention to the weather and the avalanche warnings.
4. Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.
5. Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others.
6. Choose safe routes. Recognize avalanche terrain and unsafe ice.
7. Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are.
8. Don’t be ashamed to turn around.
9. Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary.
And remember: Hiking is more than reaching a final destination.
If you manage to stay present and take in the beauty of nature along the way – the sights, smells and small details – you will experience the essence of what we call friluftsliv.
Then you will also understand why hiking is tightly connected to kos (cosiness) – the unique Norwegian word for having a good time.
Take a timeout. Take a hike.
And before you venture out, take a moment to ponder the practicalities.