At a Glance
Quick OverviewDisclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Trolltunga Hike Norway
Jutting horizontally from a cliff face 700 metres above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) has become one of Norway’s most iconic natural landmarks. This dramatic rock formation—carved by glaciers during the Ice Ages—offers what many consider the ultimate Norwegian hiking achievement: a challenging full-day trek rewarded with photographs that need no filter and memories that last a lifetime.
According to Visit Norway, Trolltunga sits “approximately 1,100 metres above sea level and 700 metres above Ringedalsvatnet lake.” The hike is described as “long and demanding, both physically and mentally”—honest words that every prospective hiker should take seriously.
Trail Overview
Route Options
Main Route: P2 Skjeggedal
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 27 km round trip |
| Elevation gain | ~800 metres |
| Duration | 10-12 hours |
| Difficulty | Demanding |
| Trailhead elevation | ~350 metres |
Shorter Route: P3 Mågelitopp
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 20 km round trip |
| Elevation gain | ~320 metres |
| Duration | 7-10 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate-Demanding |
| Trailhead elevation | ~830 metres |
The P3 Mågelitopp option removes the steepest initial climb, making it suitable for those wanting a shorter but still substantial hike. Shuttle buses connect P2 to P3.
What to Expect
First section (from P2): The trail begins with a steep climb from Skjeggedal, gaining significant elevation through switchbacks. This is the most physically demanding part if starting from P2.
Middle section: Rolling high-mountain terrain with lakes, streams, and rocky landscape. The trail is marked with red “T” markers painted on rocks. Some sections require scrambling over boulders.
Final approach: The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as you approach Trolltunga. The final kilometre offers views of the rock formation before you reach the platform itself.
At Trolltunga: The iconic rock tongue extends approximately 10 metres horizontally from the cliff. There are no guardrails or barriers—you’re standing on a natural rock formation 700 metres above the lake below.
Hiking Season
Summer (June 1 - August 31)
Official hiking season:
- Trail typically snow-free
- Mountain guards present day and night
- All facilities operating
- Independent hiking permitted
Best months:
- July: Best weather probability, longest days
- August: Good conditions, slightly fewer crowds
- Early June: Possible snow patches, check conditions
Important rules:
- Start before 8 AM to ensure return before dark
- Register at trailhead
- Check weather forecast (Yr.no)
Winter (October 1 - May 31)
Guided tours only:
- Independent hiking not permitted
- Snowshoes or touring skis required
- Professional guides essential
- Avalanche risk exists
- Significantly more challenging
Winter Trolltunga tours offer a unique experience but demand advanced skills and proper guidance.
Book Guided Trolltunga HikeGetting There
From Major Cities
From Bergen:
- 3 hours by car via E16 and RV13
- Scenic Hardangerfjord route
- Bus connections available (longer)
From Oslo:
- 6-7 hours by car
- Via E134 through Telemark
- Or via Bergen
From Stavanger:
- 4 hours by car
- Via ferry crossings or inland route
Parking Options
P1 Tyssedal:
- Lowest parking
- Longest hike
- Bus/shuttle to P2
P2 Skjeggedal (Main Trailhead):
- Primary starting point
- Parking fee required
- Facilities available
- Shuttle to P3 available
P3 Mågelitopp:
- Highest parking (830m elevation)
- Shortest hike (20 km round trip)
- Requires driving steep mountain road or shuttle from P2
- Limited spaces
Parking and Transport Tips
- Book parking in advance during peak season
- Arrive early (before 7 AM recommended)
- Shuttle buses operate between parking areas
- Check www.trolltunga.com for current schedules
- Use toilet facilities before starting (none on trail)
What to Bring
Essential Gear
Footwear:
- Sturdy hiking boots (required)
- Broken-in with ankle support
- Good grip for wet rocks
- NOT trainers or plimsolls
Clothing:
- Warm layers (temperatures drop at elevation)
- Wind and waterproof outer layer
- Hat, scarf, gloves (even in summer)
- Extra dry clothing in rucksack
- NO jeans or cotton
Rucksack (30L recommended):
- Enough food for 10-12 hours
- Minimum 2 litres water
- First aid kit
- Map and compass
- Fully charged phone (+ power bank)
- Headtorch (mandatory)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
What NOT to Bring
- Jeans (wet cotton is dangerous)
- Trainers/plimsolls
- Minimal food or water
- Over-heavy packs
- Drone (restrictions apply)
Safety Considerations
Mountain Hazards
Steep cliffs:
- Trolltunga has no protective barriers
- The rock is 700 metres above the lake
- Fog can disorient hikers near edges
- Stay well back in poor visibility
Weather:
- Conditions change rapidly in mountains
- Rain, fog, and wind can appear suddenly
- Hypothermia risk in wet conditions
- Check Yr.no forecast before departing
Trail conditions:
- Rocky terrain requires careful footing
- Wet rocks become slippery
- Some scrambling required
- Stream crossings may be challenging after rain
Safety Guidelines
- Check weather thoroughly before starting
- Start early (before 8 AM)
- Turn back if conditions deteriorate
- Stay on marked trail
- Travel with others when possible
- Inform someone of your plans
- Carry emergency supplies
Emergency Resources
On the trail:
- Two rescue cabins (emergencies only)
- Mobile coverage on most of trail
- Mountain guards present during summer
Emergency numbers:
- Police: 112
- Ambulance: 113
- JRCC Southern Norway: +47 51 51 70 00
When NOT to Hike
Do not attempt Trolltunga when:
- Strong winds forecast
- Heavy rain expected
- Fog or low visibility
- Thunderstorms possible
- Snow/ice on trail (unless guided winter tour)
- You feel unwell or exhausted
Guided Tours
Benefits of Guided Hikes
- Safety support and local knowledge
- Proper pacing for the group
- Equipment often provided
- Weather judgement from experience
- Required for winter hiking
- Good for solo travellers
Tour Options
Summer day hikes:
- Duration: 12-15 hours total
- Transport from Odda included
- Guide throughout
- Meal often provided
Two-day expeditions:
- Camping near Trolltunga
- Sunset and sunrise photo opportunities
- More relaxed pace
- Premium experience
Winter guided tours:
- Snowshoes or touring skis
- Essential equipment provided
- Avalanche safety
- Experienced mountain guides
Overnight Options
Camping Near Trolltunga
Camping is permitted near Trolltunga rock:
- Bring full camping gear (lightweight)
- No facilities—carry everything out
- Dramatic sunset and sunrise opportunities
- Avoid camping on the rock formation itself
Cabin at Tyssevassbu
DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) cabin:
- Requires membership or fee
- Self-service mountain cabin
- Bunks and cooking facilities
- Reservation recommended
Accommodation in Odda
The town of Odda serves as the base:
- Hotels and guesthouses
- Hostels and camping
- Restaurants and shops
- Pre and post-hike services
The Photograph
Getting Your Shot
The iconic Trolltunga photo requires:
- Waiting for your turn (summer queues)
- Courage to walk onto the tongue
- Someone to take your photo
- Good weather (fog ruins views)
Tips for Photography
- Morning light often best
- Afternoon can be harsh
- Queue patiently (30-60 minutes possible in peak season)
- Don’t rush others
- Respect the space
- Drones have restrictions
Beyond the Photo
Remember that Trolltunga is about more than the Instagram shot. The journey through high-mountain terrain, the sense of achievement, and the raw beauty of the landscape deserve equal attention.
Sample Itineraries
Day Hike from Odda
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 5:00 | Wake up, breakfast |
| 6:00 | Drive to P2/P3 parking |
| 7:00 | Start hiking |
| 12:00-13:00 | Arrive Trolltunga |
| 13:00-14:00 | Photos, lunch, rest |
| 14:00 | Begin descent |
| 18:00-19:00 | Return to parking |
| Evening | Dinner in Odda, rest |
Two-Day Camping Trip
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start mid-morning, hike to Trolltunga area, set camp, sunset photos |
| 2 | Sunrise at Trolltunga, pack camp, descend, drive to next destination |
Hardangerfjord Combination
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Odda, prepare gear, early night |
| 2 | Trolltunga hike, overnight Odda |
| 3 | Hardangerfjord exploration, waterfalls |
| 4 | Departure or continue to Bergen |
Practical Information
Costs
- Parking P2: NOK 300-500 (~£23-39)
- Parking P3: NOK 300-500
- Shuttle P2-P3: NOK 150 (~£12)
- Guided tour: NOK 1,500-3,000 (~£116-232)
- Accommodation Odda: NOK 800-1,800/night (~£62-139)
Facilities
At trailhead:
- Toilets
- Information boards
- Small shop (limited)
- Registration point
On trail:
- No facilities
- Emergency cabins (emergencies only)
- Natural water sources (treat before drinking)
Physical Preparation
If you’re not regularly active:
- Train 4-8 weeks before
- Build endurance with long walks (6+ hours)
- Practise on hilly terrain
- Strengthen legs and core
- Test your gear on shorter hikes
Final Advice
Trolltunga demands respect. This is not a hike to attempt casually or without preparation. The rewards—standing on one of nature’s most dramatic platforms, overlooking a pristine Norwegian landscape—are immense, but they must be earned through proper planning, adequate fitness, and sensible decisions on the mountain.
Start early, pack properly, check the weather obsessively, and be willing to turn back if conditions deteriorate. The rock will be there another day. Your safety won’t wait.
If you’re properly prepared, Trolltunga delivers an experience that justifies its place among the world’s great hikes. That moment when you finally walk onto the tongue, lake shimmering 700 metres below, mountains stretching to the horizon—it’s worth every step of the journey.
Information in this guide is sourced from Visit Norway and Trolltunga.com. Trail conditions and regulations may change—always verify current information before hiking. Last updated January 2026.