Dynamic Variation:
Offers
x

There was not an exact match for the language you toggled to. You have been redirected to the nearest matching page within this section.

Choose Language
Toggling to another language will take you to the matching page or nearest matching page within that selection.
Search & Book Sponsored Links
  • Accommodation and ski resorts

    Scandic Hotels – in all major cities from north to south

    Nordic Choice Hotels – a different hotel company

    Thon Hotels – with fantastic breakfast

    Radisson Blu Hotels – discover your favourite destinations

    Classic Norway Hotels – a unique combination of distinctive hotels and authentic fisherman's cabins

    Citybox – modern and affordable hotels in a central location

    Rauland – Skiing holidays in stunning mountain scenery

    DanCenter – your specialist in holiday homes in Norway

    Norgesbooking – book your perfect cabin stay in Norway

    Campcation – book camping all across Norway with Campcation

  • Getting Here & Around

    Vy – travelling by train has never been easier

    SJ NORD – the adventure starts on the train

    Vy express – travel with bus throughout Norway

    NOR-WAY Bussekspress – experience amazing scenery by bus

    Widerøe – the largest regional airline in Scandinavia

    DFDS – Europe’s leading ferry operator 2012-2021

    AutoEurope – always a smooth car rental experience

    Rent-A-Wreck – the smart car rental alternative

    Arctic Campers – Norway’s camper van rental

    Cabin Campers – your cottage on four wheels

  • Tours & Round trips

    Hurtigruten – "The World’s Most Beautiful Sea Voyage"

    Fjord Tours – Home of Norway in a nutshell® - Norway’s most popular tour

    Authentic Scandinavia – Travel created by locals

    Up Norway – Bespoke luxury tailored by insiders

    Norrøna Hvitserk – expeditions and adventure holidays

    Booknordics.com – hundreds of activities, tours and day cruises in Norway

    Brim Explorer – silent fjord tours by electric catamaran

    Fjord Travel – let us show you the beauty of Norway!

    Go Fjords – tours and activities all over Norway

    50 Degrees North – unforgettable tailor-made and small group tours to Norway

    Discover Norway – skiing, biking and hiking tours in Norway

    Norwegian Holidays – low-price package holidays with Norwegian. Flight, hotel and rental car

    Stromma – sightseeing, excursions and experiences with bus, boat and train

  • Offers

Search
or search all of Norway
Hiking in the Utladalen valley in Fjord Norway
Hiking in the Utladalen valley in Fjord Norway
Hiking in the Utladalen valley.
Photo: Thomas Rasmus Skaug / Visitnorway.com
Hiking in the Utladalen valley.
Photo: Thomas Rasmus Skaug / Visitnorway.com

10 amazing valley hikes

In between Norway’s many fantastic mountain peaks lies a number of beautiful hiking valleys. These are some of the best.

Deep valleys and wide-open landscapes you can rest your eyes on. Paths meandering along roaring rivers, through steep canyons, and past small farms where you’ll think: Do people actually live here?

«It doesn’t always have to be about reaching the highest peaks. In the valleys, you’ll often go through beautiful cultural landscapes and along old roads, or past mountain farms with interesting histories», says Dag Terje Klarp Solvang, Secretary General of the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT).

The nature in the valleys is different from what you’ll find in the high mountains. As valleys are more shielded from the weather, a wide variety of flowers and plants will often fight for your attention.

«In many valleys, the season is longer than in the mountains, and you are more protected when you hike», Klarp Solvang points out.

Here is his pick of some of the most beautiful valley hikes in the country.

1. Aurlandsdalen in the Sognefjord area

This 20-kilometre hiking classic starts at Østerbø fjellstove (820 metres above sea level). It follows a marked trail down to Vassbygdi in Aurland by the Sognefjord, through magnificent scenery lined with more than 500 different plant species. Here, steep mountains descend into deep river gorges, and the trail passes old cultural treasures.

The hike takes seven to eight hours to complete. If you want some fabulous views, choose the trail down the steep Bjørnestigen. A hiking bus will take you to and from Østerbø and Vassbygdi from Geiteryggen, Aurland, and Flåm during the hiking season, which stretches from late May to the beginning of October.

Since you’re already here: Enjoy a slow-baked goat cheese pizza in the village Aurland, see quality craftsmanship in action in the Aurland shoe factory, and admire the fjord view from Stegastein viewpoint.

2. Husedalen in the Hardangerfjord region

The wild Husedalen valley in Kinsarvik by the Hardangerfjord has no less than four spectacular waterfalls. Hike from the town centre or park near the Tveitafossen waterfall. From there, it’s less than an hour to the Nyastølfossen waterfall, and another 45 to 60 minutes to the Nykkjesøyfossen waterfall. The fourth waterfall is also the most magnificent: Søtefossen. If you want to experience the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, you can continue to the self-service cabin Stavali.

It is approximately 15 kilometres from Kinsarvik to Søtefossen. The round trip usually takes five to six hours.

Since you’re already here: If you love water activities, the Hardangerfjord is the place for you. explore the world’s third-longest fjord in a kayak or on a fjord or RIB-safari, or simply go swimming. Experienced hikers will enjoy the trip to world-famous Trolltunga, HM Queen Sonja’s panoramic hiking trail, and the Buarbreen glacier. You can also go summer skiing at the Folgefonna glacier, or simply enjoy a glass of the best cider or apple juice you’ve ever tasted, made by the local farmers.

3. Utladalen in Årdal

As if axed into the landscape, one of Northern Europe’s deepest valleys stretches twenty kilometres from the Sognefjord into the Sognefjellet and Jotunheimen mountains. At the bottom, the river Utla roars, and majestic peaks tower more than 2,000 metres above the lush hillsides.

The hike takes you along the gravel road Folkevegen, which was built by locals in the 1970s. After about a kilometre, a steep trail leads you up to the charming Avdalen farm where you can stop for a meal, or even spend the night. Four easy kilometres further into the valley, Vetti gard turiststasjon offers the same. If you want, you can hire a packhorse to carry your luggage. From Vetti, a 1.5-kilometre hike takes you to the Vettisfossen waterfall, the tallest singular free-leaping waterfall in Northern Europe.

You can also proceed to the beautiful Stølsmaradalen valley, where you can spend the night in two different DNT cabins.

Since you’re already here: Drive the beautiful Tindevegen mountain road to Årdal from Turtagrø on the Norwegian Scenic Route Sognefjellet. And when in Årdal, why not go for a swim in the lido?

4. Innerdalen in Sunndal

Innerdalen is often called Norway’s most beautiful valley. The green paradise of Sunndal, not far from Sunndalsøra in the Northwest, is surrounded by wild mountains and glittering lakes where you can go swimming or rent a rowing boat or canoe.

Park at Ålvundeid and follow a fairly steep dirt road for 3.5 kilometres until you reach the charming Renndølsetra, where you can spend the night and eat delicious organic local food – or just stop for a few of their famous waffles. A little further in lies the cabin Innerdal turisthytte, which also offers dining and accommodation.

Follow the trails further into the valley or up to the Trollheimen mountains, or hike to the foot – or top – of the legendary 1,452-metre-high Mount Innerdalstårnet.

Since you’re already here: Take a tour of Tingvoll, where you can buy the world’s best cheese Kraftkar. If you want to keep hiking, both the popular trail to Mount Skåla and the beautiful Trollheimen mountains are nearby.

5. Sautso / Alta canyon in Alta

Northern Europe’s largest canyon has steep walls that are 300–400 metres high, so there are no trails here. But you can admire the stunning view from several viewpoints in Alta, like the Gargia mountain lodge or Beskades. It is also possible to explore the canyon from a riverboat or a canoe, or on a guided tour.

Since you’re already here: In Alta, you can experience the Sami culture up close. A visit to the Northern Lights Cathedral is a must, and you should also check out the UNESCO listed rock carvings in Hjemmeluft under the midnight sun. And just so you know: Alta is often surprisingly hot, sunny and dry in the summertime!

Leave nature as you found it

Norway is a country of outstanding natural beauty, with dramatic waterfalls, crystal clear fjords, majestic mountains, and spectacular glaciers. Preserving this landscape, and its communities and way of life, is essential for locals and visitors alike.

Leave as light a footprint as possible. Leave nature as you would like to find it — take only pictures, keep only memories.

Travel responsibly in Norway

6. The King’s Road through Lærdal

Kongevegen, or the King’s Road, was the first road to connect Eastern and Western Norway in 1793. The most beautiful stretch starts at Vang in Valdres and takes you across the Filefjell mountains to Lærdal by the Sognefjord. Spend five to six days on the whole trip, or hike only the last part.

On a short stretch along the Vindhellavegen road from the stave church Borgund, you can experience the fascinating old road construction. If you want a longer hike, continue down to the fjord and along Øygardsvegen, and even further past rivers and waterfalls through Galdane. From there you can take a bus to the old town Gamle Lærdalsøyri, or stop for the night before you continue on nature trails and roads through lush Lærdal the next morning.

Since you’re already here: Explore the small gem Gamle Lærdalsøyri and its protected wooden houses by the fjord. You can also go kayaking, visit the Norwegian wild salmon centre, and drive a Norwegian Scenic route across the Aurlandsfjellet mountain to Aurland. Stop at Stegastein viewpoint for a breathtaking view!

7. Døråldalen in Rondane

Walk on landmasses that have travelled here from the equator over millions of years! In the Døråldalen valley, ice, weather and wind have uniquely shaped the surroundings. You can drive all the way to the two cabins Øvre and Nedre Dørålseter, where you can stay overnight.

From the parking lot, follow the river into the 10-kilometre-long Døråldalen valley, or hike to the top of one of the beautiful peaks that surround it. Explore the peculiar Skranglehaugene, with moraines and kettles formed towards the end of the Ice Age. You can also embark on a cabin to cabin hike through the Rondane mountains.

Since you’re already here: Spend some time driving or cycling the Norwegian Scenic Route Rondane, and make sure to stop at the Sohlbergplassen viewpoint. Take a fun train ride into the old mine in Folldal or go horseback riding in the mountains nearby.

8. Junkerdalsura at Saltfjellet

Close to Storjord just north of the Saltfjellet mountains in Northern Norway (the closest city is Bodø), you’ll find the entrance to Junkerdalsura nature reserve – a huge but narrow canyon which digs its way in between the tall mountains.

Due to its sheltered location and calcareous soil, the Junkerdalen valley is a botanical paradise filled with a wide range of plants, including orchids.

From the parking lot by the Nordland national park centre, you can follow a pram-friendly road 2.5 kilometres into the valley to a picnic area. There are also many hiking opportunities in the Junkerdalen national park, or you can enjoy the view from Mount Solvågtind.

Since you’re already here: Stop by the Nordland national park centre, and have lunch at the nostalgic guest house Storjord hotel. On the other side of the road, you’ll find some beautiful forest paths and exciting suspension bridges.

9. Jutulhogget in Røros

Experience Northern Europe’s largest gorge in Alvdal in the Østerdalen valley. Jutulhogget is 2.4 kilometres long, and in some places, the rock walls extend 240 metres upwards. Park by Rv3 and enjoy the view from here before you embark on the trail down into the ravine. Check out the incredible echo and marvel over the plants you won’t find anywhere else in these mountains.

Since you’re already here: Visit the UNESCO listed mining town Røros and take a boat trip on Lake Femunden.

10. Molladalen in Sunnmøre

Molladalen lies like a giant horseshoe on Sunnmøre, surrounded by rugged peaks that reach up to 1,400 metres above sea level. The valley is as magical in the sunshine as when the mist drifts mysteriously in between the mountains. See if the fish are biting in one of the many lakes or hire a mountain guide and climb the pinnacle Bladet or one of the other steep Molladalstindane peaks. You can also go on both easy and tough hikes here. Drive the toll road from Barstadvika to your starting point at Melbøsætra.

Since you’re already here: Molladalen is close to the art nouveau town Ålesund and beautiful hiking possibilities around the Hjørundfjord. The area offers plenty of unique hotels and restaurants, as well as the world’s most stunning swing!

Hike some of the country’s amazing mountain stairways, or get the pulse going with our 10 tips for adrenaline seekers. Either way, you can book a tailored journey with Up Norway!

Explore the valleys

The 10 amazing valley hikes
The well-known and historic Aurlandsdalen Valley, was once one of the main routes between the eastern and western parts of Norway. Read more
Aurlandsdalen
The scenery and waterfalls in Husedalen simply take your breath away. Four stunning waterfalls are close to each other along the hiking… Read more
Four beautiful waterfalls, Husedalen valley
Northern Europe's largest canyon. There are many possible how to get to see this beautiful canyon, whether hiking, in a riverboat, canoeing, guided… Read more
Alta Canyon
Kvamskleiva - from Syndrol to Hemsing bridge This historic section of road was opened in 1808 and replaced The Bergen “Kongevei”, which… Read more
The King's Road Over Filefjell
In the Døråldalen valley, ice, weather and wind have uniquely shaped the surroundings. Read more
Døråldalen in Rondane
Junkerdalsura nature reserve is a huge but narrow canyon at Saltfjellet. Read more
Junkerdalsura
Northern Europe's largest canyon, wich was formed during the last Ice Age, around 10, 000 years ago. You may experience the Jutulhogget Canyon on foot… Read more
Jutulhogget Canyon
Molladalen is encircled by the spectacular Molladalstindane with well-known peaks such as Jønshorn, Randers Topp and Mohns Topp. By the glacier behind… Read more
Hiking trip to Molladalen (774 m.o.h.)
Select
    Show Details
    Statens Kartverk, Geovekst og kommuner - Geodata AS

    Best deals from our partners

    Book your next Norwegian holiday adventure now.

    • Classic "Norway in a Nutshell' Hiking Tour by 50 Degrees North
      Credits
      Classic "Norway in a Nutshell' Hiking Tour by 50 Degrees North
      Photo: Fredrik Ahlsen / Visit Norway
      Classic Hiking Tour
      Charming lodges and fantastic scenery

      A 7-day tour featuring the best of Norway, including a 3-day trek and a train trip from Oslo to Finse, a stay in Flåm, express boat to Bergen, and a RIB boat safari in the Nærøyfjord. Stunning nature, charming lodges, and fantastic scenery and company! | 50 Degrees North

    • Walk on historic ground by Discover Norway
      Credits
      Walk on historic ground by Discover Norway
      Photo: Discover Norway
      Walk on historic ground
      Dovrefjell - Along the Pilgrim's Path

      A walk through Norwegian history, combined with breathtaking scenery. Walk in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims and be inspired by the varied nature of the cultural landscape and high mountain terrain. | Discover Norway

    • Discovery Route by Up Norway
      Credits
      Discovery Route by Up Norway
      Photo: Trolltunga Active
      Discovery Route
      One of Norway’s most sustainable journeys?

      The Discovery Route from the 1880s was the first-ever high-end fjord package holiday to be sold in Norway. Now we will take you through the incomparable beauty of Norway in all its diversity. | Up Norway.

    • Norway's Southern Fjords and Pulpit Rock by 50 Degrees North
      Credits
      Norway's Southern Fjords and Pulpit Rock by 50 Degrees North
      Photo: Pierre Bouillot / Unsplash
      Norway's Southern Fjords and Pulpit Rock
      Pulpit Rock, Stavanger, Bergen, fjordside spa

      Guided hike up Pulpit Rock. Discover Bergen's historic charm with your private guide. Indulge in a spa retreat at a historic fjordside hotel. Enjoy long leisurely evenings in the garden and dine in style after kayaking or swimming in the fjords. | 50 Degrees North

    • Senja, Wildlife & Auroras by 50 Degrees North
      Credits
      Senja, Wildlife & Auroras by 50 Degrees North
      Photo: Steffen Fossbakk / Visit Norway
      Senja, Wildlife & Auroras
      Wildlife safari, northern lights, and Tromsø

      Experience steep, majestic mountains, and islands with pearly white beaches and clear turquoise water. This 6-day winter tour includes Tromsø, Finnsnes, and Hamn in Senja. See the northern lights from a hot tub, if you're lucky! | 50 Degrees North

    • White beaches, Sea & Manshausen Island by 50 Degrees North
      Credits
      White beaches, Sea & Manshausen Island by 50 Degrees North
      Photo: Manshausen.no
      White beaches, Sea & Manshausen Island
      Stay in designer style on Norway's coast

      With its unique location between small islands, sandy beaches and high mountains, Manshausen is one of Norway’s best adventure playgrounds. This 4-day tour includes sea kayaking, guided hikes and caving. The Nordskot Traverse can be included! | 50 Degrees North

    • Preikestolen Express Bus by Go Fjords
      Credits
      Preikestolen Express Bus by Go Fjords
      Photo: Go Fjords
      Preikestolen Express Bus
      Roundtrip from Stavanger to an iconic trail

      One of the most popular hikes in Norway. Our bus provides easy and comfortable round trip transport from Stavanger. Be aware that this hike is unguided, however, the trail is well marked with distance markers. Relax and enjoy the view. | Go Fjords

    • Beautiful Norway Hike by 50 Degrees North
      Credits
      Beautiful Norway Hike by 50 Degrees North
      Photo: Malik Skydsgaard / Unsplash
      Beautiful Norway Hike
      Guided hiking mini-coach tour to Galdhøpiggen

      Travelling on a premium 50 Degrees North mini-coach, hike Galdhøpiggen, Northern Europe’s highest mountain, reaching 2,469 metres above sea level. 7-day premium small group tour featuring the best hikes in Norway. | 50 Degrees North

    • Hike on historic ground by Discover Norway
      Credits
      Hike on historic ground by Discover Norway
      Photo: Jakob Stenqvist / Unsplash
      Hike on historic ground
      Cross Dovrefjell mountain on the St. Olav’s Ways

      Do you want to combine mountain hiking with culture? A hike in one of Norway's most majestic mountain landscapes. Varied and easy highland terrain. Hike on your own without a guide. The package includes luggage transport, overnight accommodation, and meals.  | Discover Norway

    • Trolltunga Hike and Dome Stay by Book Nordics
      Credits
      Trolltunga Hike and Dome Stay by Book Nordics
      Photo: Trolltunga Active
      Trolltunga Hike and Dome Stay
      Sunset and sunrise from Trolltunga

      Join us on an adventurous hike to the Trolltunga plateau and spend your night in a comfortable dome. Dinner, breakfast, and gear included.| Book Nordics

    • Norwegian Fjords & Glaciers by Authentic Scandinavia
      Credits
      Norwegian Fjords & Glaciers by Authentic Scandinavia
      Photo: Sverre Hjørnevik / Fjord Norway
      Norwegian Fjords & Glaciers
      Oslo, Bergen, Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord.

      Travel by train, boat, and bus to experience the Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord. Visit Oslo, Bergen, and the fjord villages of Flåm, Balestrand and Ulvik. | Authentic Scandinavia

    Different hikes for different people

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

    ×
    • Filters
      Filter Your Search
      • Show More
      • No available filters
      Clear Filters
    • View
    • Sort By
    Filter Your Search
    • Show More
    • No available filters
    Clear Filters
    Back To Top

    Get inspired

    Here is a selection of other articles you might like.

    Your Recently Viewed Pages

    Back to top