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 Hikes. These trails will be maintained with extra care to safeguard them for the future.
A variety of adaptations – improved information, garbage handling, and the establishment of mountain ranger services – aim to reduce accidents and injuries.
Experience Norway's National Scenic Hikes:
1. Trolltunga
Hardangerfjord, Fjord Norway
1,180 metres above sea level, and 700 metres 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 kilometres long and takes 8-12 hours – a very long and demanding hike. You need to wear proper clothes and hiking boots, 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 4 hours round trip for this challenging 8-kilometre-journey.
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 along the way, from the centre of Geiranger by the Geirangerfjord to Storsæterfossen, a majestic waterfall that you actually can walk behind!
If you start at the Norwegian Fjord Centre, the hike is 3,9 km long and takes 2 hours one way.
5. Besseggen
Vågå, Eastern Norway
As many as 60,000 people hike Besseggen every year. It's a 13-km-long round trip, and takes 6-8 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.
6. Rødøyløva
Rødøya, Northern Norway
Rødøyløva is Northern Norway's first national tourist trail, and one of Helgeland's most famous and finest mountain hikes.
From the top you get a fantastic view of the beautiful coastal landscape, from the Lofoten Wall in the north, to Vega in the south.
The 1.5 km hike is medium hard and takes up to 2 hours each way. It's lined with sherpa stairs (stone stairs) for most of the trip. The top is very exposed and on sloping terrain. Good shoes are recommended.
Remember …
-
Pick up your rubbish and leave nothing behind
-
Don't make any new trails
-
Follow the marked trails
-
Make sure to wear proper hiking clothes and hiking boots
-
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.