The Best Epic Hikes In Norway

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, Norway is the place to be! With its stunning natural landscapes and picturesque trails, it’s no wonder that Norway is considered one of the best places in the world for epic hikes. Let’s dive into what makes Norway the ultimate hiking destination!

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First of all, Norway is known for its majestic mountains and fjords, which offer some of the most spectacular hiking routes in the world. From the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) to the Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) and the Kjeragbolten boulder, there is no shortage of breathtaking vistas to explore.

One of the best things about hiking in Norway is that the scenery changes constantly as you hike. You might start your hike in a lush forest, and then suddenly find yourself surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers. Along the way, you’ll come across crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, and even the occasional grazing reindeer.

Another great thing about hiking in Norway is the accessibility of the trails. Many of the most popular hikes are easily accessible from major cities, such as Bergen and Oslo. This means that you don’t have to travel far to get started on your adventure.

Hiking Culture

But it’s not just the natural beauty that makes hiking in Norway so amazing. Norway’s hiking culture is also a big part of the experience. The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) has a network of over 500 cabins and huts scattered throughout the country, providing shelter for hikers on multi-day treks. You can even buy a “DNT key” that gives you access to these cabins, allowing you to enjoy Norway’s outdoors in comfort.

And let’s not forget about the famous Norwegian hospitality! Norwegians are known for being friendly and welcoming, and many of them are more than happy to give hikers tips on where to go and what to see.

Norway is the epic hiking destination that has it all – stunning landscapes, accessibility, a great hiking culture, and friendly locals. So what are you waiting for? Get your hiking boots on and come explore the best place in the world for epic hikes! Let’s start off easy in Northern Norway with the hike The Castle Of Marble.

The Castle Of Marble

Photo by Peter Trones on Unsplash

The Marmorslottet hike also known as ‘the castle of marble’ is located near Mo i Rana, in the northern part of Norway. To get there, you can take a flight to the nearest airport in Mo i Rana, or drive from other parts of Norway. From Mo i Rana, the hike is about a 30-minute drive away.

The hike is free and open to the public. However, there are no facilities or amenities along the trail, so it’s important to come prepared with appropriate hiking gear and supplies.

The trail to Marmorslottet is about 4.5 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,000 feet. The trailhead is located at the end of a gravel road, and there is a small parking area nearby. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, but there are some steep and rocky sections that can be challenging for inexperienced hikers.

Along the trail, you’ll pass through a forest and over a river before arriving at the main attraction: a stunning marble canyon with towering white cliffs and turquoise waters. The canyon is truly a sight to behold and is the highlight of the hike and yes the canyon is made from marble. Staying in Northern Norway, we head to hike two large glaciers- Svartisen.

Hike To Svartisen: Two Large Glaciers

Photo by Mattias Lundbäck on Pixabay

Hike into Saltfjellet–Svartisen National Park, it is set within the Arctic circle to enjoy the two glaciers, one of them is Norway’s second largest glacier. This 3.7-mile out-and-back trail takes you up 639 feet of elevation. The best time of year to attempt this hike is between June and September. You must never go up onto the glacier itself without a glacier guide. Ensure to have some cash on you for the national park entry. What an experience! Continuing north we head to Reinebringen on the stunning Lofoten Islands.

Hikes On The Lofoten Islands

Photo by Manuel Meurisse on Unsplash

The Lofoten Islands in Norway are a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. With their rugged coastline, soaring mountains, and pristine beaches, the islands offer some of the most breathtaking views in the world. Hikers can explore a variety of trails, ranging from easy strolls along the beach to challenging ascents up steep mountainsides. The Lofoten Islands are also known for their unique wildlife, including sea eagles, puffins, and whales, making for an unforgettable hiking experience. With a rich cultural history and traditional fishing villages dotting the landscape, the Lofoten Islands offer a perfect combination of nature, adventure, and culture for any hiker looking to explore this stunning part of Norway.

Reinebringen

Photo by op23 on Unsplash

Photo by jossemio on Unsplash

Hiking to the peak of Reinebringen is a 3.5-mile out-and-back trail that takes you up 2,293 feet of elevation. The best time to attempt this hike is between May and November. Steps lead you up almost all the way to the top, however, hiking poles are recommended for the last section. Depending upon weather conditions, sometimes the trail can be closed so check the local authority website before heading out. This is a hike you won’t forget! Staying on the gorgeous Lofoten islands, we head to the Devil’s Gate.

Devil’s Gate

Photo by Gregorio Nuti on Unsplash

Hike to the picturesque devil’s gate, Djevelporten. This is a 1.7-mile loop trail that takes you to the suspended boulder. You will gain 1,315 feet of elevation on this trail. The Devil’s Gate refers to the spectacular suspended boulder which sits over a gorge between the peaks of the Frog and Floya. This is a short but steep hike. The photo you can get from the devil’s gate is just out of this world! The trail itself is free but there is an hourly fee for parking. Really close by, we challenge ourselves to climb the otherworldly Svolværgeita granite rock.

Climb Svolværgeita Granite Rock

Photo by Martin on Pexels

Svolværgeita is the unmissable 500 foot/150 meter tall granite pinnacle shaped rock. This is a tough climb so only attempt without a guide if you are an experienced technical climber. There are local guides that you can climb with if you would prefer. This has to be one of the most scenic climbs on the planet! Just incredible! It’s time to head south for some epic hikes down there. Norway’s landscape is just incredibly breath-taking.

Skageflå & 7 Sisters Waterfall

Photo by admiratio on Unsplash

The elevation gain throughout this 5.2-mile round-trip hike is 2,290 feet. Overlooking the Geirangerfjord is the abandoned mountain farm known as Skagefl. One of Norway’s most beautiful walks is the ascent to Skagefl, which offers views of the Seven Sisters Waterfall on the other side of the fjord as well as the Geirangerfjord and the surrounding mountains.

Children should not attempt this hike. In the Norwegian mountains, the weather is prone to sudden changes. For this reason, when hiking in Norway, you must adhere to the Norwegian Mountain Code. Within minutes, the temperature might go from being warm and sunny to being frosty. Always pack sturdy hiking footwear. Furthermore, pack enough food and drink. 

It can be hiked from July through August, depending on the weather and the amount of snow. If the trail is covered in ice and snow, avoid taking this trip. From the beach to the mountain, the steep trek takes around 45 minutes, and the trail is fence-protected. Moving onto icy conditions, how about hiking the largest glacier in Europe.

Walk On The Largest Glacier Jostedalsbreen

Photo by Jana V. M. on Pixabay

Europe’s largest glacier is called Jostedalsbreen and it is 37-miles long. For the opportunity to hike on the biggest glacier, you can discover guided tours that will take you on a walking trip. With its stunning blue ice formations, this is an amazing experience and sight. Onwards to more glaciers!

Hike To Nigardsbreen Glacier

Photo by Roman Bannack on Unsplash

Photo by Jörg Petersen on Pixabay

Nigardsbreen glacier is a low-level glacier (nearly a thousand feet below sea-level) and is one of the easiest to access in Europe. Embark on a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail that takes you up 1,456 feet of elevation gain. The best time of the year to attempt this hike is between May and October. What a cool experience…….literally! Pressing on south, we go from glaciers to waterfalls.

Hike To Northern Europe’s Highest Waterfall – Vettisfossen

Photo by Matej Drha on Unsplash

Vettisfossen is Northern Europe’s highest waterfall, gushing down from 900 feet/275 meters. The hike to the falls is a 8.0-mile out-and-back trail that takes you up 2,437 feet of elevation gain. There is a car park and restroom facilities at the trailhead. Be sure to be wearing the appropriate clothing for the weather and be sure to be back before sun down. This is a gorgeous and challenging hike. Continuing south to hike Ulriken Peak.

Hike To Ulriken Peak 

Photo by Sharon Christina Rørvik on Unsplash

Hiking to the peak of Ulriken is a 2.2-mile out-and-back trail that rewards you with stunning views over Bergen. You will gain 1,305 feet of elevation on this hike and the trail is open all year. Be cautious in cold and icy weather as the trail gets slippery. You can also opt to take the Ulriken cable car back down if you wish. We continue south to one of the stars of this list, Trolltunga.

Trolltunga

Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash

Trolltunga or ‘Trolls tongue’ as it is known by the locals is one of the most iconic rock formations in Norway! Get the best photo ever standing or sitting out on this incredible rock. Feel like Simba from the lion king as you stand proudly over the valley.  To get to this view however, is a tough 15.8-mile out-and-back trail that takes an average of 9 hours to complete. This is of course a very popular hiking trail so expect it to be busy, you will gain nearly 4,000 feet of elevation on this hike.  The best time to attempt this trail is between May and September. Be sure to check the Trolltunga Trail Information website before visiting for any seasonal closures. After this mega star, we continue south to the picturesque hike to Bondhusvatnet.

Bondhusvatnet

Photo by op23 on Unsplash

This is a 2.9 mile hike with 603 ft in elevation. Bondhusvatnet glacier lake near Sundal in Kvinnherad is a popular destination and one of the most popular hikes in the Hardanger region. The hike is short and not too demanding and you can do it all year round. The views you are rewarded with are just breathtaking. As we continue south on our epic hiking journey through Norway, we reach our second suspended boulder.

Stand On A Suspended Boulder On Top Of The World At Kjerag Mountain

Photo by Jonathan Reichel on Pixabay

To get to the infamous suspended boulder in Kjerag, you will have to hike 7 miles and gain 2,624 feet of elevation. This hike isn’t for the faint of heart and can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours. The starting point is at the parking lot Øygardstøl. Be sure to ask the carpark staff about the prospective weather conditions before beginning your hike and do not attempt this in the winter. After that thrilling hike, we come almost to the end of our list of epic hikes in Norway. We end our list with an absolute Norwegian powerhouse Pulpit Rock.

Pulpit Rock

Photo by Maksim Shutov on Unsplash

Photo by Samuel Killworth on Unsplash

This mega hike is a 4.7 mile with 1150ft elevation gain. Hike up to a glacially formed granite plateau called “Pulpit Rock” which reaches a height of 1,982 ft. above the fjord below. The view from the top is breathtaking on the edge of a cliff overlooking the green valleys and blue water below. It is a steep climb to the top but worth it for the views and the experience. The most ideal time to hike to the cliff is during April-October to avoid snow and ice. That concludes our epic hikes in Norway and I will move onto some bonus content for our loyal Tripio readers.

Bonus: Easy Viewpoints

Stegastein Viewpoint

Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash

Stegastein Viewpoint offers a near 100 foot/30 meter easy to access viewing platform. It sits over the Aurlandsfjord valley more than 2,132 feet below/650 meters below. This is one of the best views in Norway and you do not need to hike to it, just park up and enjoy the view. There are restroom facilities by the carpark and it is wheelchair accessible.

Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint

Photo by BazzaBoy on Pixabay

This is a stunning, easy to access viewpoint over Geiranger and Geirangerfjorden. Situated at the top of the hill is a very strategically placed recliner to get that Insta-worthy photo. What a view! The viewpoint is easy to drive to however, once you are there, it is uneven and rocky to walk over so be sure to be wearing shoes with good grip and take caution. Do not forget your camera for this one.

Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a beginner hiker, Norway has something for everyone.

In addition to the stunning scenery, Norway’s commitment to sustainable tourism and the environment makes it an ideal destination for those seeking responsible travel options. The country has implemented a number of measures to protect its natural areas, such as limiting the number of hikers on certain trails and promoting the Leave No Trace principles.

Overall, if you’re a lover of the great outdoors, Norway’s epic hikes are not to be missed. With its rugged beauty, impressive peaks, and commitment to sustainability, Norway offers an unparalleled hiking experience that will leave you awestruck and inspired.

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