Norway is a beautiful country that is famous for its natural beauty that includes fjords, mountains, valleys, and lakes among others. Regardless of whether you’re a weekend warrior, or an experienced trekker, Norway has a trail for everyone, with many trails ranging from easy to difficult. Every hike is different, which means that you can spend hours exploring the beauty of the surroundings and breathing in fresh, clean air. Not only the most famous trails such as Trolltunga and Preikestolen, but even more, unknown trails like the Lofoten Islands are breathtaking and will make you speechless.
Before you begin your journey to Norway, there is something you should know and that is to get a Norway visa if your country is not exempted. The visa application is not complicated but should be arranged in advance so that one doesn’t get stuck in-between the process. Once you have your visa you can put on your hiking shoes and get ready to hike on some of the best hiking trails in Norway. Time for an incredible adventure, a trip through the most beautiful landscapes and every next step is a step to a new discovery and a new breathtaking view.
Here is the 8 Best Hiking Trails in Norway with Unforgettable Views
1. Trolltunga (Troll's Tongue)
Overview
Trolltunga or Troll’s Tongue is among the most popular hiking sites in Norway. This outstanding cliff rises 700 meters over the Ringedalsvatnet Lake and provides visitors with splendid views of fjords and mountains. It is about 28 kilometers round trip and is regarded as difficult.
Experience
This trail starts at Skjeggedal and gets you through a combination of cliffs and stunning views. The closer one gets to Trolltunga, the more spectacular the scenery gets, especially the final picture standing on the edge of the cliff. The views from the top are breathtaking and that makes all the climb worth it. There are no amenities along the way so be sure to take lots of water and some food with you.
2. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
Overview
Preikestolen also known as Pulpit Rock is a horizontal cliff that stands 604 meters high above the Lysefjord. This hike is particularly famous because it is not very difficult and the scenery is stunning.
Experience
The hike that takes one to Preikestolen is about 8 km and begins at the Preikestolen Mountain Lodge. The trail is properly signed and thus it is not very difficult for most hikers to follow through the trail. During the hike, you are likely to enjoy a view of the fjord and the green vegetation of the forests. When at the top, there is always time to admire the beautiful view and take great pictures for the area surrounding the station. That means it is a perfect place for a picnic so don’t forget your sandwiches!
3. Romsdalseggen Ridge
Overview
Romsdalseggen Ridge is famous for its views of the Romsdal valley and many hikers experience a thrilling hike along the ridge.
Experience
This is a 10 km hike that starts at the top of the Romsdal Gondol which gives an immediate view of the mountains. The trail will lead you along a cliff top with stunning views of the Romsdal mountains, waterfalls and valleys. The mountain and valleys make this hike perfect for photography especially early in the morning or towards the evening.
4. Galdhopiggen
Overview
Galdhopiggen is the highest mountain in Northern Europe with a height of 2,469 meters. The trek to the top is a bit steep, but it is well worth the effort.
Experience
The trail begins at Juvasshytta, Northern Europe’s highest mountain hotel. It usually involves crossing a glacier, so be well prepared with the right clothing, and possibly a guide. When you get to the top, the scenery is stunning and the Jotunheimen National Park’s mountains and dales are visible. It is a rather exciting experience to be standing at the highest point of the Norway.
5. Kjeragbolten
Overview
Kjeragbolten is one of the most popular hike in Norway due to the big boulder perched on the edge of two cliffs.
Experience
The trail is 12 km long and begins at the Kjerag parking lot with great views of the Lysefjord. At places, the trail is steep but not very challenging for a majority of the hikers out there. The feeling of standing on the boulder is thrilling and the sightseeing from this point is breathtaking. Don’t forget to take a few photos because this moment will be one that you will want to remember for the rest of your life.
6. Besseggen Ridge
Overview
Besseggen Ridge is a typical Norwegian trail most famous for the views of two glacial lakes, one of which is turquoise blue, the other – deep blue.
Experience
The hike is about 14 km long and begins at Gjendesheim. There are some steep parts on the trail but it is always possible to find a bench with a breathtaking view. While on the ridge, you are able to view both, Lake Gjende and Lake Bessvatnet, which will make your photography session even more exciting. This hike is especially done in the summer when the weather is slightly better for the hikers to endure.
7. The Lofoten Islands
Overview
The Lofoten Islands provide a wide range of possibilities for hiking with stunning views of nature: sharp rocks and soft beaches.
Experience
Another is the walk up to the Reinebringen trail which offers a panoramic view of the village of Reine and the many fjords. It is rather steep but the top is worth the view. Lofoten Islands are also popular for fishing villages and stunning coastlines, so any hike here is always a great experience.
8. Aurlandsdalen Valley
Overview
Also referred to as the Grand Canyon of Norway, Aurlandsdalen Valley provides a diverse terrian that reflects the scenic beauty of Norway.
Experience
The trail is about 20 km and takes you through valleys, past waterfalls and along several rivers. Geological wonders and different species of plant and animals can be seen by hikers. The beautiful landscape and wonderful opportunity to observe the local wildlife make this trail a unique experience. On the way, there are historical farms and old trails which give a cultural flavor to the entire trip.
Conclusion
When planning for hiking, make sure you wear proper hiking shoes, clothes that match the weather, a first aid kit and enough water. Also, verify the status of the trails and the weather predictions to have a good time when hiking.
Before going for a hiking trip in Norway, do not forget to obtain a Norway visa if you require one. Once you get your visa in order, you are ready to go out and hike on these stunning trails. Not only do hiking trails in Norway give the hiker a physical workout, but they also give some of the most amazing views that one will ever come across. Every hike is a trip across the Norwegian terrain, which makes the country an ideal paradise for every adventurer.
