Hiking in Norway: Norwegian mountains are truly breathtaking! It may sound like a cliché, but it’s true. These mountains are not only majestic, rugged, and awe-inspiring, but they are also accessible to everyone. Whether you’re an experienced hiker who has explored all the well-known trails across Norway or a novice who has never ventured into the hills, this post is for you. Norway boasts stunning blue and green fjords, lush valleys, and snow-capped mountains.
You can hike in any region of Norway. Last year’s tourism saw an influx of day-trippers from cruise ships as well as hikers setting up tents and RVs across the country. However, if you wish to avoid the crowded tourist paths and long queues, Hemsedal is the place to be. Hemsedal is one of the most beloved mountain villages among Norwegians.
Hiking in Norway – Hemsedal Mountains
While I have a deep love for Norway, I also appreciate many other countries with similar natural beauty. If you’re drawn to landscapes like those in Norway, Interlaken in Switzerland is a must-visit. Although I haven’t had the chance to go there yet, it’s high on my bucket list.
Best Time to Hike in Norway
The ideal time to hike in Norway is from late May to September, unless you’re into skiing, ice-climbing, or downhill sports. The peak hiking season runs from July to September, coinciding with the Norwegian summer holidays in July and early August. Many Norwegians spend their vacations in mountain or seaside cottages. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, weekdays in May, July, late August, and September are the best times to hike the Norwegian mountains.
During the peak season, you can engage in various activities, such as hiking, biking, rafting, and fishing. In winter, snow activities like cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing are popular. Many ski centers offer instructor services. The snow season typically begins in late November, with artificial snow created for cross-country and slalom skiing. If you’re not keen on traveling far, Oslo offers plenty of summer and winter activities.
A Few Facts About Norway
Let me share some interesting facts about my home country:
- Norway’s population recently surpassed 5 million people.
- The country is long and narrow, and it takes as much time to travel from Oslo to the northernmost point of Norway as it does to travel from Oslo to Rome.
- Norway ranks as the seventh-happiest nation globally, with Finland holding the top spot for several years.
- Oslo, the capital, is no longer among the top 10 most expensive cities worldwide, making now a great time to visit.
Hiking Norwegian Mountains Off the Beaten Path
For those looking to hike away from the main tourist trails, the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) provides extensive information on trails and cabins, both serviced and unserviced. Many choose to hike from hut to hut, planning their trip around the available huts. The association also offers guided tours and planning tools. Hut-to-hut hiking is a fantastic way to explore the mountains, though it’s best suited for experienced hikers. If you’re new to mountain hiking, guided tours provide a safe and enjoyable experience. Most of the huts and trails are located in the mountains between Oslo and Bergen, with Hemsedal situated about 3.5 hours from Oslo and 4 hours from Bergen.
Hemsedal – Traveling from Oslo
The Hemsedal area is approximately a 3.5-hour drive west of Oslo and is about halfway between Oslo and Bergen. You can also reach Hemsedal by train from Oslo to Bergen, disembarking at Gol station, with tickets available online from VY (Norwegian Railway). Alternatively, buses are an option. The area is popular among young partygoers, families with children, and couples. Hemsedal offers trails and peaks for all skill levels during the summer and autumn, along with slalom slopes for varying abilities in winter. Hemsedal’s top 20 hiking peaks are a major draw in the summer, with trails ranging from easy walks suitable for strollers to more challenging hikes.
Accommodation and Activities in Hemsedal
Hemsedal provides a variety of accommodation options, from high-end hotels and modern cottages to authentic mountain huts and lodges. The most sought-after mountain huts are those with ski-in/ski-out access and proximity to après-ski venues. The mountain ranges in Norway vary in height, snowfall, accessibility, and popularity depending on the region. We typically prefer mountains that are within a 4-hour drive and of significant height.
The Joy of Hiking in Norway
Not every trail in Norway is spectacular, nor does it need to be. Norwegians have a deep love for the outdoors. A brisk walk for a few hours can be just as fulfilling as a challenging hike like Bessegen, depending on your preferences. When hiking in Norway with family, it’s often more about spending quality time together. We bring along a storm kitchen, a portable cooking stove for hikers, and pre-made pancake batter. While the parents light the bonfire, the kids usually search for blueberries to add to the pancakes. We also bring hot dogs and marshmallows to grill over the fire.
A few hours of hiking to reach a viewpoint is a fantastic way to spend the day. The sense of accomplishment after hiking for hours and being rewarded with stunning views is unparalleled.
The Norwegian Outdoors Experience
I’m not the most outdoorsy person, and I still enjoy a few hours of good hiking, preferably with some climbing. I value comfort and luxury and haven’t camped in a tent for 25 years, but I’m willing to settle for something in between.
Returning to a cozy cottage after a long hike, lighting the fireplace, enjoying a glass of red wine, and soaking in the view brings the ultimate sense of peace and satisfaction. The mountain air is crisp, and the quietness of nature always instills a feeling of serenity. The only sounds are the crackling of logs in the fireplace and the occasional bleating of sheep outside.
Hemsedal in October
The mountains can be unpredictable, and Norwegian weather is not always ideal. It can change in an instant. However, even foggy mornings with moisture or frost are more welcoming than the city’s pollution. The crisp air may sting your lungs, but the tranquility and closeness to nature will nourish your soul. The saying “nature is the balm for your soul” truly applies here.
Hemsedal – An Off-the-Beaten-Path Destination
Hemsedal is off the typical tourist trails, and unless you know someone who can tell you about it or take you there, you might not discover it on your own. If you’ve already visited popular spots like Trolltunga, Kjeragbolten, and Preikestolen, I encourage you to explore less touristy areas on your next trip to Norway.
Winter in the Norwegian Mountains
The winter season in the mountains is filled with skiing, joy, and lively parties. It’s the best time to visit with friends. Après-ski venues are packed with young adults, the slopes glisten in the sun, and rental prices soar. The closer you stay to the slopes with ski-in/ski-out access, the more expensive it gets. If you’re not a skier but want to experience the Norwegian mountains in winter, consider visiting the mountain village of Beitostølen, where you can enjoy at least five activities that don’t involve skiing.
Exploring Norway’s Famous Mountain Ranges
My goal is to visit every county (fylke) in Norway, as each one boasts unique landmarks, peaks, and hikes. You’ve likely heard of Trolltunga, Pulpit Rock, and The Seven Sisters, among other famous sites in various parts of Norway. Ticking them all off my list will take some time.
Preparing for a Norwegian Hiking Adventure
If you’re visiting Norway in the spring, summer, or autumn and plan to go hiking, you’ll find a wide range of mountain trails at DNT.NO. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker or have the best gear, but you must respect nature and the weather.
When planning a hiking trip or a vacation in Norway where you can explore the country, be sure to pack a wool sweater and a raincoat. I also recommend bringing a backpack or carrying a small one. The backpack I use and love is the Osprey Axis 18, which is perfect for both short hikes and city commutes.
