Hiking in Norway: 10 Most Breathtaking Trails

Norway’s mountains, fjords, and forests create some of the world’s most dramatic walking routes. The country’s trail system ranges from easy lakeside paths to challenging multi-day expeditions across rugged terrain.

Hiking in Norway offers experiences for every fitness level, from families with children to seasoned mountaineers seeking technical challenges. Norway uses a colour-coded trail marking system that helps hikers choose routes matching their abilities.

10 Best Hiking Places in Norway

1. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)

Preikestolen stands as one of the most recognisable natural landmarks in Norway. This massive cliff platform rises 604 metres above Lysefjord, offering panoramic views that attract thousands of visitors annually.

The flat-topped rock formation creates a perfect natural viewpoint stretching about 25 by 25 metres.

• Difficulty: Medium (Blue)

• Distance: 7.6 km round trip

• Location: Strand, Rogaland County (near Stavanger)

• Cost: Free access; parking at Preikestolen Mountain Lodge costs approximately NOK 250/day (about ₹2,000)

• Great for: First-time visitors to Norway, photographers, families with older children, couples seeking iconic views

• Coordinates: 58.9861° N, 6.1900° E

• Key Tips:

  • Start hiking before 8 AM to avoid crowds

  • Stay cautious as the trail has wooden walkways and steep granite staircases

  • Bring water and layers as the weather changes quickly

  • Swimming is possible in the mountain lakes along the route

  • Visitors should carry extra snacks as food options at the trailhead are limited and expensive

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2. Besseggen Ridge

Besseggen Ridge ranks among the most popular hiking trails for couples in Norway seeking a more challenging experience together.

The trail runs along a narrow mountain ridge between two differently coloured lakes: the deep blue Bessvatnet and the emerald-green Gjende. This striking colour contrast creates some of Norway’s most photographed natural scenery.

• Difficulty: Challenging (Red)

• Distance: 15.4 km (one-way, often hiked with a ferry return)

• Location: Jotunheimen National Park

• Cost: Free access; ferry from Gjendesheim to Memurubu costs approximately NOK 200-300 (₹1,600-2,400)

• Great for: Experienced hikers, mountain photography enthusiasts, couples seeking adventure, those wanting to see Norway’s dramatic alpine landscape

• Coordinates: 61.4972° N, 8.7000° E

• Key Tips:

  • Most hikers take the ferry to Memurubu and walk back to Gjendesheim for the best views

  • Book ferry tickets in advance (especially July-August)

  • Expect steep sections and some scrambling that requires using hands

  • Ridge section is narrow with exposure on both sides

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3. Kjeragbolten

Kjeragbolten features a boulder suspended between two rock faces, hovering 984 metres above Lysefjord. This natural wonder has become one of the most famous hiking spots in Norway for thrill-seekers who step onto the boulder for a heart-stopping photo opportunity.

• Difficulty: Challenging (Red)

• Distance: 12 km round trip

• Location: Lysefjorden, Rogaland

• Cost: Free access; parking at Øygardstøl approximately NOK 300 (₹2,400)

• Great for: Adventure seekers, photographers, those wanting the famous “standing on the boulder” photo

• Coordinates: 59.0413° N, 6.5850° E

• Key Tips:

  • Not suitable for those with a fear of heights

  • Trail features three steep climbs with chains for support

  • Avoid hiking in poor weather conditions, as rocks become slippery

  • Hikers should carry proper hiking boots with a good grip

  • Early morning starts (before 7 AM) help avoid crowds at the boulder

4. Aurlandsdalen Valley

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Often called “Norway’s Grand Canyon,” Aurlandsdalen Valley offers a historically significant trail that follows ancient travel routes through dramatic mountain scenery. The path passes abandoned farms, waterfalls, and cultural landmarks.

• Difficulty: Moderate (Blue)

• Distance: 18 km (Østerbø to Vassbygdi)

• Location: Aurland, Vestland

• Cost: Free access; shuttle bus back to Østerbø costs approximately NOK 150 (₹1,200)

• Great for: History buffs, nature lovers, those wanting a classic valley walk with cultural elements

• Coordinates: 60.8586° N, 7.1875° E

• Key Tips:

  • Best hiked from mid-June to mid-October

  • Trail is mostly downhill but long, requiring good stamina

  • Bring snacks and water, as there are limited services on the route

  • Hikers should pack rain gear regardless of the forecast, as valley weather changes rapidly

  • Works well for group hiking in Norway due to its manageable terrain

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5. Trolltunga

Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) juts out horizontally from a mountain about 700 metres above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. This distinctive rock formation creates one of Norway’s most dramatic photo opportunities and has become a social media favourite.

• Difficulty: Challenging (Red)

• Distance: 28 km round trip (from P2 parking)

• Location: Odda, Vestland

• Cost: Free access; parking at Skjeggedal or Mågelitopp NOK 500-700 (₹4,000-5,600)

• Great for: Experienced hikers, photographers, and social media enthusiasts seeking iconic images

• Coordinates: 60.1240° N, 6.7400° E

• Key Tips:

  • Start before 8 AM due to the long hiking time (10-12 hours)

  • Hike is strenuous and exposed to the weather

  • Bring plenty of food, water, and clothing for changing conditions

  • Indian hikers should consider the shorter route from P3 parking (reduces distance by 8 km), but it costs NOK 800 (₹6,400) per car

  • Not recommended as a first hike in Norway

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6. Knutshøe Ridge

Knutshøe offers similar views to the more famous Besseggen but with fewer crowds. This lesser-known alternative provides excellent vistas of the same lakes and mountains without the tourist masses.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (Blue/Red)

• Distance: 13 km round trip

• Location: Jotunheimen National Park (near Beitostølen)

• Cost: Free access; parking at Vargebakken is free

• Great for: Solitude seekers, photographers wanting Besseggen-like views without crowds, hikers with moderate experience

• Coordinates: 61.4994° N, 8.8894° E

• Key Tips:

  • Includes a scrambly section early on that might challenge beginners

  • Stunning views of Leirungsdalen valley throughout

  • Usually has 80% fewer hikers than Besseggen

  • For Indian visitors, this trail offers excellent value as one of the best free hiking trails in Norway, with world-class views

  • Good mobile coverage throughout makes it safer for solo hikers

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7. Urkeegga Circuit

The Urkeegga Circuit traverses a spectacular ridge in the Sunnmøre Alps, offering panoramic views of Hjørundfjord and surrounding mountains. This loop trail combines ridge walking with valley views.

• Difficulty: Challenging (Red)

• Distance: 10 km circuit

• Location: Urke, Hjørundfjord

• Cost: Free access

• Great for: Ridge walking enthusiasts, photographers seeking fjord panoramas, experienced hikers

• Coordinates: 62.2410° N, 6.5730° E

• Key Tips:

  • The circuit includes a mountain shelter at Egilbu for emergency use

  • Best hiked July–October when snow has melted

  • Bring windproof layers as the ridgeline is exposed to strong gusts

  • Indian hikers should note that this area receives fewer international tourists, offering a more authentic local experience

  • The trail works well for hiking trails for couples in Norway who have some mountain experience

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8. Rondane National Park Traverse

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Rondane, Norway’s oldest national park, offers a network of trails through gentle mountain terrain. Its multi-day routes connect comfortable hiking association (DNT) cabins, making it perfect for longer adventures.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (Blue/Red, multi-day)

• Distance: 60–100 km (4–6 days, various routes)

• Location: Rondane National Park (Otta, Dombås, Folldal)

• Cost: Free access; DNT huts cost NOK 300–800/night (₹2,400–6,400)

• Great for: Long-distance hikers, those seeking wild reindeer sightings, multi-day trekkers

• Coordinates: 61.8840° N, 9.9240° E

• Key Tips:

  • Use DNT cabins for accommodation and meals (booking essential in summer)

  • Plan for variable weather with spare warm clothing

  • This area offers excellent opportunities for group hiking in Norway due to its cabin network

  • Indian hikers should consider DNT membership for significant discounts on cabin stays

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9. Trollheimen Triangle Route

The Trollheimen Triangle connects three DNT cabins through varied mountain terrain. This classic Norwegian hut-to-hut hike takes trekkers through forests, across plateaus, and past lakes in central Norway.

• Difficulty: Moderate (Blue, multi-day)

• Distance: ~45 km (3 days)

• Location: Trollheimen (Oppdal, Rindal, Surnadal)

• Cost: Free access; DNT huts cost NOK 300–800/night (₹2,400–6,400)

• Great for: Hut-to-hut hiking fans, those wanting varied scenery, hikers seeking moderate challenge with comfortable nights

• Coordinates: 62.7050° N, 9.2220° E

• Key Tips:

  • Book huts in advance during the summer months

  • The route is well-marked and offers consistent terrain without technical sections

  • Indian visitors should carry cash, as some huts have limited payment options

  • This route works particularly well during the best time for hiking in Norway (mid-July to mid-August) when the weather is most stable

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10. Kattanakken

Kattanakken offers outstanding views of Jostedalsbreen, Europe’s largest mainland glacier. This challenging day hike is rewarded with panoramic vistas of ice fields, mountains, and valleys.

• Difficulty: Expert (Black)

• Distance: 11 km round trip

• Location: Jostedalsbreen National Park

• Cost: Free access

• Great for: Experienced hikers, glacier enthusiasts, those seeking challenging scrambles with rewarding views

• Coordinates: 61.6750° N, 6.8490° E

• Key Tips:

  • Marked as a black trail (expert) due to steep scrambling sections

  • Many hikers turn around at the glacier viewpoint if not comfortable with the exposure

  • Indian hikers should carry extra layers as temperatures near the glacier can be significantly colder

  • The trail offers some of the most dramatic glacier views accessible by day hiking anywhere in Europe

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FAQs

What are the different types of hiking trails in Norway?

Norway uses a four-colour trail system. Green trails are easy and flat. Blue trails require moderate fitness. Red trails are steep and demanding. Black trails require technical skills and experience. The best hiking trails in Norway include all levels, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

What is the best time for hiking in Norway?

The best time for hiking in Norway is mid-June to September. July–August is the warmest. June has snow at high altitudes. September shows autumn colors. Mountain huts operate from late June to mid-September.

What is the longest trail in Norway?

The Nordkalottruta is Norway’s longest trail at 800 km, crossing into Sweden and Finland. The Pilgrim’s Route runs 643 km. Both offer multi-week hiking in Norway through varied landscapes.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Norway?

Galdhøpiggen trail from Juvasshytta gains 1,100 metres over 5.5 km. Trolltunga has around 900 metres gain. Romsdalseggen Ridge offers 970 metres of gain plus exposed sections. These are famous hiking spots in Norway with steep climbs and rewarding views.

What is the most popular and difficult trail in Norway?

Trolltunga is one of the most popular and difficult hiking spots in Norway. It’s 28 km round-trip with 900 m gain. Takes 10–12 hours. Kjeragbolten is shorter but more technical. Both need good fitness, experience, and weather preparation.

Are there camping trails available in Norway?

Yes, hiking in Norway allows wild camping under the “right to roam” law. Camp 150 metres from homes. Trails like Hardangervidda and Jotunheimen are great. Follow Leave No Trace. Camping offers Indian visitors an affordable hiking experience.

Are there running trails available in Norway?

Norway has great trail running on green and blue paths. Popular spots include Sognsvann, Vidden, and Bymarka. Races like Tromsø Skyrace happen during the best seasons for hiking in Norway.

Are there biking trails available in Norway?

Norway offers many biking trails, often separate from hiking paths. Rallarvegen is a scenic 80 km ride. Trysil Bike Arena is Norway’s largest. Ski resorts like Hafjell turn into bike parks during the best time for hiking in Norway.