by As one of the world’s most northern countries, Norway is home to powerful glaciers, beautiful fjords, mountainous terrain, and a rugged coastline. Not only is this country gifted with sublime serenity but it is also one of the few places in the world where you can view the northern lights and the midnight sun. In other words, Norway has plenty to offer any hiker who is lucky enough to visit.
Below are some of the best sites for hiking in Norway:
Pulpit Rock
The hike to Pulpit Rock is consistently one of the most popular hikes in Norway. This is partially due to the fact that it’s easily accessible from the endearing town of Stavanger. The hike in total is five miles and takes about five hours and is rated as an easy to moderate trail.
Pulpit Rock is a massive plateau that hangs above a fjord, Lysefjorden. Geologists believe it was frost that originally shaped the plateau of the rock as far back as 10,000 years ago. They think it was likely due to water that froze in the cracks of the mountain, which forced boulders down the side of the glacier. Geologists say that despite the fact there is still one crack left on Pulpit Rock that you pass along the trail, there is no reason to worry about the rock falling down. Additionally, Pulpit’s unique overhang allows for surreal views of the fjord below and panoramic views of Norway’s landscape as far as the eye can see.
There are plenty of amenities on Pulpit Rock as well. There is a mountain lodge and parking at the base of the trail.
Selga
Selga is one of the best hiking trails on the island of Senja. The island of Senja is home to a majestic natural landscape that feels untouched as you explore it. Selga is the mountain that perfectly displays the island’s beauty. Hiking Selga is relatively short but surprisingly tough. The trail is three miles long but it takes around three to four hours to complete. However, every step along the way is truly breathtaking. This mountain exemplifies exactly what you think of when you think of Norway: bright green grass covering rolling hills, rocky terrain, and blue-green bodies of water along the way. Selga is not a hike that is well-known by tourists (yet) so you will likely have the trail to yourself. You will be able to take in the stillness, fresh air, and compelling scenery along this peaceful journey. Moreover, the view from the top of the trail is truly unmatched. Often, you can see mainland Norway across the water.
As far as specifics, the trailhead is located in Fjordgard. You can take the Botnhamn ferry to the island and then from there it’s a 25-minute drive to the nearby Fjordgard school, which has a parking lot you can use.
Trolltunga
For those adventurous hikers, Trolltunga is the perfect hiking spot for you. Located in the Hardangerfjord region near the town of Odda, it is known as one of the most rewarding hikes in Norway. Round-trip the hike is 17 miles and the estimated total hiking time is eight to twelve hours.
Trolltunga hovers about 2,000 feet over the Ringedalsvatnet lake and has beautiful views of the lake throughout the majority of the trail. Because the hike is rather long it is strongly recommended to go with a guide for less experienced hikers. During the months of October-May, all hikers should go with a guide due to the harsher weather conditions. For experienced hikers, it is said to be safe to tackle the trail on your own from June through September.
Geirangerfjord
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geirangerfjord offers a variety of trails, all of which offer incredible views. These trails are along and/or overlook the fjord, which is about nine miles long. This area is marked as a UNESCO site in part due to its incredible natural beauty. The area is marked with waterfalls, coniferous forests, and a couple of charming villages that practice a sustainable way of living to preserve the land. In fact, part of the delight of hiking in this area is admiring the unique cultural elements, farms, and pastures along the way.
In fact, one of the more popular hikes on this site is the trail to Skageflå Mountain Farm. This is a remote farm that overlooks the fjord. This viewpoint is absolutely stunning and truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Geirangerfjord offers shorter hikes as well which include starting at Westerås Farm, (located up above Geiranger village) and hiking to Vesteråsfjellet, another spectacular viewpoint.
Reinebringen
Located on the Lofoten Island, Moskenes, Reinebringen is just outside of the fishing village Reine. Reinebringen sits above the Reinefjorden, Kjerkfjorden, and the Lofoten Wall, which are spires of granite that shoot out of the nearby Arctic Sea. Hiking Reinebringen takes about two to three hours but many spend at least an hour or more enjoying the summit. Additionally, hikers do have the option of setting out for the Loften summit, which takes anywhere from one to two days. There is a hut on the way where hikers can stay the night (Munkebu hut). However, many feel the beauty of the Reinebringen summit is more than enough as its panoramic views of the sea, fjords, and Loften Wall are truly sublime.
Norway’s powerful beauty and endless trails to explore make it one of the ideal destinations for any avid hiker. You can take in the landscape’s vibrant colors, peaceful bodies of water, and appreciate the towering mountains. Norway is home to the type of nature and views you simply can’t get enough of.
