Norway is a Scandinavian country renowned for its dramatic fjords, northern lights, and stunning natural beauty. From the vibrant streets of Oslo to the UNESCO-listed Bryggen in Bergen, Norway offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
-
1
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
Norway's most famous hike leads to a flat-topped cliff 604m above Lysefjord. The trail crosses varied terrain including rocky paths, wooden stairs, and open plateau before the dramatic final reveal.
-
2
Trolltunga
Norway's most iconic hike reaches a horizontal rock formation jutting 700m above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The long, demanding route passes through mountain plateaus and is one of Scandinavia's most photographed spots.
-
3
Besseggen Ridge
Described by Ibsen in Peer Gynt, this famous ridge walk above two different-colored lakes — emerald Gjende and deep blue Bessvatnet — is one of Norway's most dramatic mountain experiences.
-
4
Kjeragbolten
A demanding hike to a famous boulder wedged in a cliff crevasse 1000m above Lysefjord. Three chain-assisted sections make this route both thrilling and rewarding with spectacular fjord views throughout.
-
5
Fløyen to Ulriken
Bergen's classic mountain traverse connecting two funicular stations across four of Bergen's seven mountains. Stunning views of Bergen, its fjords, and islands accompany you for the entire route.
-
6
Romsdalseggen Ridge
Often called Norway's most beautiful ridge hike, this spectacular traverse above Åndalsnes offers views of the dramatic Romsdal valley, surrounding peaks, and the iconic Trollveggen wall.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Norway.
- Spring
- Late May to early June — snow melting from lower trails, wildflowers blooming, streams full. Mountain trails may still have snow above 800m. Check trail conditions at ut.no.
- Summer
- Late June to August — peak season with all trails open, long daylight hours (midnight sun in north), and pleasant temperatures 15-22°C. Book accommodation well ahead.
- Fall
- September to October — fewer crowds, stunning autumn colors, excellent photography light. Mountain trails close as snow arrives above 1000m. Best weather often in early September.
- Winter
- November to April — most mountain trails closed or requiring full mountaineering gear. Snowshoeing and ski touring excellent alternatives. Northern lights possible during hikes in Arctic Norway.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Rapidly changing weather — Nordic weather can deteriorate in minutes even in summer
Hazard: Exposure on ridges — Trolltunga, Besseggen, and Kjeragbolten have no safety rails on exposed sections
Hazard: Overcrowding at peak sites — Trolltunga has 80,000+ summer visitors annually; book shuttle buses in advance
Hazard: Hypothermia risk — sea-level temperatures can be deceptively cold; bring windproof layers even in summer
Hazard: Ticks — carry tick remover in forest areas during May-August and check after walks