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.

From popular marked trails and tourist attractions to wild and untamed mythical landscapes, the varied scenery has earned Norway a well-deserved reputation as a major European hiking destination. To give you a sneak-peek of what to expect, we have collected some of the most classic (and challenging!) hiking routes.

For more tour suggestions, check out our hiking map further down the page!

These iconic hikes are visited by people worldwide and might sometimes be a bit crowded during weekends from mid-June to the end of July. However, if you hit the trails during weekdays, you will probably meet fewer people and get more space to yourself.

You can also take the trip when the landscape is painted in red, yellow, and orange during late summer and autumn. At this time, you can enjoy the scenic surroundings practically undisturbed.

Our country is of great variations and vast distances, so when you plan your hiking adventure in Norway, we recommend that you focus on one region or a specific area to explore. Almost regardless of where you go, you have a myriad of paths to choose from.

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.

Essential hiking gear

hiking boots

wind and waterproof jacket and trousers

wool underwear and wool sweater

an extra change of clothes and socks

cap, scarf, and gloves or mittens

enough food and drink for the whole trip

map and compass

a fully charged mobile phone in a plastic bag to avoid water damage

a small headlamp and extra batteries

sunglasses and sunscreen

first-aid kit and extra blister plasters

a reflective vest

pocket knife

Get more hiking tips

Numerous cabins all over the country offer convenient and affordable accommodation for hikers. Many are of a fairly basic standard, but don’t be surprised if you come across a hiking lodge with a fancy look – ambitious architects have designed quite a few. And if you want a little bit of luxury, there is no shortage of grand hotels to choose from.

Hiking with the Norwegian Trekking Association

The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) runs more than 550 affordable hiking cabins all over Norway, which gives you ample choice of decent, reasonable accommodation on your hiking holiday.

DNT offers three types of cabins: staffed lodges, self-service cabins and no-service cabins. Hike from cabin to cabin along the coast, in the forests, and the mountains.

Hiking with DNT

Plan your hike with DNT

Safety in the mountains

Norway is an incredible place to explore, with untamed mythical landscapes, mountains, valleys, and fjords. But before you enter the outdoors, get familiar with the Norwegian mountain code’s nine simple rules to help you stay safe.

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.

Read the mountain code with supplementary comments.

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.

Practical hiking information

Get useful tips on everything from what to wear to how to behave in the Norwegian wilderness.

Different hikes for different people

One of the best things about hiking is that everyone can do it! Find a hike that suits you.

The Queen's hiking trails

Unique hiking experiences

National scenic hikes

Find hikes all over Norway

Explore the map and find hiking suggestions in the area you are planning to visit.

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