Hiking in Norway can be a memorable adventure, Norway is an excellent choice for a hiking trip. From high peaks and fjords to untouched forests and quaint towns, Norway offers an amazing variety of landscapes that are sure to impress any hiker. With its mild temperatures and friendly people, it’s no surprise that this country has become a popular destination for those who enjoy getting outdoors. Here are just a few of the highlights you can look forward to while exploring Norway by foot.
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Mountain Climbing
The highest peak in Norway is Galdhøpiggen at 2469 meters, located in Jotunheimen National Park. Many experienced mountaineers choose to attempt its summit each year, as well as other notable peaks such as Glittertind and Store Skagastølstinden. If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed, however, there are plenty of shorter trails and climbing routes scattered throughout Norway’s mountains that are sure to be rewarding too.
Urban Trails
Although known primarily for its nature trails, Norway also has some great city hikes that offer a different perspective on this fascinating country. In Oslo alone there are dozens of short paths meandering through parks and neighborhoods – or take advantage of your stay in Bergen by taking one of their urban hikes around the city center or nearby areas such as Lysebotn or Norefjell ski area!
Scenic Drives
Sometimes getting out into nature isn’t about strenuous physical activity – it can simply be about enjoying the scenery from the comfort of your car or bus. With Norway boasting many jaw-droppingly beautiful roads winding through gorgeous valleys and soaring peaks alike, it’s definitely worth considering a road trip if you have time! Popular routes include Trollstigen road between Åndalsnes and Valldal, as well as Gaularfjellet from Stryn over toward Sogndal/Flåm.
Exploring the Best Trails on foot – Hiking in Norway
Norway is a dream destination for many hikers, with its picturesque landscapes, crystal clear lakes, and winding rivers. From long distance hikes through epic national parks to challenging peak ascents and thrilling glacier crossings, Norway offers a plethora of opportunities for outdoor adventurers of all levels. With its incredible scenery and abundance of nature reserves, it’s easy to see why this country has become such an increasingly popular spot for outdoor activities. Whether you are a beginner hiker or experienced outdoorsman, Norway is the perfect place to experience all the thrills that hiking can bring.
Fjord Hikes – Hiking in Norway
One of Norway’s most iconic landscapes is its fjords, deep sea inlets surrounded by towering mountains on either side. The perfect way to experience them is with a fjord hike – where you walk alongside them or climb up one of the peaks above for breathtaking views. A few popular hikes include the Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) in Ryfylke and Sognefjorden in the Sogn og Fjordane region.
Preikestolen – Hiking in Norway
This dramatic hike features a dizzying cliff edge viewpoint offering breathtaking views over Lysefjorden – one of Norway’s most stunning fjords. This route will take you on a six-kilometer trail through the beautiful Ryfylke mountains before reaching the stunning panorama at the summit. Along the way you can also visit Fossbrenna, an ancient mill where wild trout still roam free today.
Lofoten Islands
Located in Northern Norway above the Arctic Circle, these islands offer some of the most spectacular hikes in Europe. Experience untouched nature from scenic walks across fishing villages and white sandy beaches, to conquering rugged peaks in awe-inspiring landscapes surrounded by sea and snow-capped mountains – it doesn’t get any more breathtaking than this!
Hardangervidda
An immense mountain plateau spanning 6800 square kilometers (roughly the size of Massachusetts!), Hardangervidda National Park is home to Norway’s highest peak and contains more than 2000 lakes! Enjoy pristine wilderness as you trek along miles of well-marked paths; discovering deserted valleys lined with glacial rivers, forests filled with rare wildlife, traditional sheep farming villages, abandoned mining settlements and vibrant blue mountain tarns.
Besseggen Ridge
Situated in Jotunheimen National Park, this famous hike takes around 5 hours one way and offers exceptional views across Lake Gjende and two majestic mountain ridges – including Scandinavia’s highest mountain chain! Climb your way up Besseggen Ridge which runs like a narrow ribbon between Lake Gjende on one side and Bessvatnet on the other – making sure not to forget your camera for this must-do Norwegian experience!
These four amazing trails give just a taste of what Norway has to offer for avid hikers looking for unique experiences amidst incredible landscapes; so whether you’re seeking wildflower meadows in highland passes or precipitous cliffs plunging into icy waters – there really is something here for everyone! With plenty more hikes throughout this magnificent land waiting to be explored – make sure to put Norway firmly on your hiking list!
In conclusion, Norway is full of exciting opportunities for hikers of all levels – from casual strolls around cities to full-day mountain excursions. So pack your bag and get ready to explore some the best hiking trails in Scandinavia. Enjoy hiking in Norway!
