National scenic hikes in Norway
Norway has many iconic hiking trails that are popular among both locals and international visitors, but …
… in recent years the number of visitors has increased, resulting in wear and tear and litter.
As a result, a selection of popular trails have been certified as National Scenic Hike. These trails will be maintained with extra care to safeguard them for the future.
In addition, improved information, garbage handling and a variety of adaptations, like the establishment of a mountain ranger service in several places, aims to reduce accidents and injuries.
Experience Norway's National Scenic Hikes:
1. Trolltunga
Hardangerfjord, Fjord Norway
1,180 meters above sea level, and 700 meters above Ringedalsvatnet lake, you will find the famous Trolltunga, 'The Troll's Tongue' – one of the most spectacular rock formations in Norway!
Starting from Skjeggedal the hike is 27 km long and 8-12 hours in total – a very long and demanding hike. You need to wear proper hiking boots and clothes and be in good shape to make it to the top, where you will be rewarded with magnificent views!
2. Preikestolen
Lysefjorden, Fjord Norway
Preikestolen, The Pulpit Rock, towers 604 metres above the Lysefjord and the trek there is one of Norway’s most famous mountain hikes!
Allow a total of four hours for this challenging eight-kilometre roundtrip.
3. Kjerag
Ryfylke, Fjord Norway
At 1,084 metres above sea level, Kjerag is the highest peak in the Lysefjord area and home to the world-famous boulder Kjeragbolten!
The hike is around 11 kilometres long both ways and takes 6 to 10 hours, so you need to be in good shape!
4. Fosseråsa
Geirangerfjord, Fjord Norway
This trail is signposted from the centre of Geiranger by the Geirangerfjord to Storsæterfossen, a majestic waterfall that you actually can walk behind!
If you start by the Norwegian Fjord Centre, the hike is 3,9 km long and takes two hours one way.
5. Besseggen
Vågå, Eastern Norway
As many as 60,000 people hike Besseggen every year. It's a 13-km-long roundtrip and takes six to eight hours and is therefore recommended for experienced hikers only.
When you reach the top, the reward is a stunning view over the turquoise water of Gjende lake and the Jotunheimen mountain range, with other mighty mountains in every direction.
Remember to …
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Pick up your rubbish and leave nothing behind
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Don't make any new trails
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Follow the marked trails
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Make sure to wear proper hiking clothes and hiking boots
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Pick a trail that suits your physical condition and the weather
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 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. Recognise 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.