Top 5 Norway Hiking Trails
1. Rondane National Park
Home to some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in Norway, Rondane National Park is a place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle and get back to nature. The park is made up of lichen and heather-strewn plateaus and remote waters that lie beneath the gaze of soaring peaks and the famous ethereal blue glow. Originally the park was created to protect reindeer, but you’ll also come across other wild animals and a wealth of birdlife on your travels. On our Venabu walking tour, you’ll hike to the summit of Store Ramshogda and explore the towering peaks of the Rondane massif, where you’ll witness the most awesome mountain views.
2. The Pilgrim’s Road
Laying claim to being the world’s most northerly pilgrimage route, the Pilgrim’s Road is a lesser-known route that often goes unrecognized. Following in the footsteps of St Olav, the trail takes you to Nidaros in Trondheim and it has a strong appeal for anyone wanting to go off the radar and enjoy total serenity. The sparsely inhabited landscapes of Jämtland, punctuated mostly by lakes and rivers, are popular stomping grounds for the local wildlife. Our guided walk steers you above the valley of Gudbrandsdalen and up to the ancient hillfort, where terrific views await and you can learn about the history of St Olav. We complete the walk with a trip to the iconic Ringebu Stave Church, which was originally built in the 13th century and is one of the last remaining churches of its kind in Norway.
3. Finnsjøvola
Framed by the majestic Rondane mountains, the lakes of Finnsjøvola offer a scenic walk along their shores. Atnasjøen Lake is arguably the most picturesque with its gin-clear waters and dramatic backdrop. Measuring over three square miles, Atnasjøen lies between Sto-Elvdal and Sor-Fron and is a fabulous viewpoint for soaking up the mountain views. When the air is calm, the reflections of the mountains on its glossy surface are utterly mesmerizing and make a stunning subject for budding photographers.
4. Dynjefjellet
This dramatic peak may often go overlooked, but a hike up to its summit rewards you with 360° views that reach out across the Rondane mountains, Venabygdsfjellet and the distant glacial peaks of Jotunheimen. Early fall is a great time to enjoy this walk as the landscape is ablaze with fiery reds and oranges. It’s also a great time to sample the lush blueberries, cranberries and cloudberries along the way. There’s a good chance when walking in Norway up to Dynjefjellett you’ll spot wild reindeer which have roamed the land since the last Ice Age.
5. Besshovden
Besshovden offers hikers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and valleys, including the Fjærlandsfjorden fjord and the Jostedalsbreen glacier. During summer, you may even see people securing hammocks to spend the night under the stars. Besshovden’s rocky terrain and steep inclines challenge adventurers, while the summit rewards them with an unparalleled sense of solitude and connection to nature.