Besseggen Ridge Hike
Norway's Most Popular Mountain Trail 2025

Besseggen Ridge is Norway’s most hiked mountain trail—a spectacular narrow ridge walk with one of the country’s most iconic views: green Lake Gjende on one side, deep blue Lake Bessvatnet on the other, separated by a dramatic knife-edge ridge. Located in Jotunheimen National Park, this 13.5-kilometer trail draws over 60,000 hikers annually, and for good reason.

The contrast between the two lakes—one colored green by glacial sediment, the other blue from rain and snowmelt—creates a surreal scene that must be seen to be believed. Add the dramatic ridge walking, sweeping mountain panoramas, and rich Norwegian hiking culture, and you have one of Europe’s finest day hikes.

Trail Overview

Key Statistics

Metric	Value
Distance	14 km point to point
Duration	6-8 hours
Elevation gain	~1,100 meters total
Highest point	1,743 meters (Veslfjellet)
Difficulty	Demanding (DNT Red - Krevende)
Season	Late June - Early October
Boat cost (Gjendebaten)	~240 NOK one way
Annual hikers	60,000
GPS coordinates	61.4989N, 8.8356E

Trail Description

Classic Route (Memurubu to Gjendesheim):

1. Boat to Memurubu (20 min from Gjendesheim)
2. Ascent to Besseggen (steep, 2-3 hours)
3. Ridge walk (1-2 hours, spectacular views)
4. Descent via Veslfjellet (2-3 hours)
5. Finish at Gjendesheim

Why This Direction?

Hiking from Memurubu to Gjendesheim is preferred because:

• Steepest section tackled fresh
• Ridge views unfold ahead of you
• Return to Gjendesheim (facilities, parking)
• Boat schedule works better

The Two Lakes: Gjende & Bessvatnet

Lake Gjende (Green)

• Color: Distinctive milky green
• Reason: Glacial sediment (rock flour)
• Length: 18 km
• Depth: 145 m
• Elevation: 984 m

Lake Bessvatnet (Blue)

• Color: Deep sapphire blue
• Reason: Fed by rain and snowmelt (no glacial input)
• Length: 4 km
• Depth: 25 m
• Elevation: 1,373 m

The ridge separates these two lakes by almost 400 vertical meters, creating the famous view where green water lies far below on one side while blue water gleams above on the other.

Book Boat Tickets

The Boat: Gjendebåten

Schedule

The Gjendebåten operates from mid-June to mid-October.

Peak season departures (July-August):

• First boat: ~7:30 AM
• Last boat: ~4:30 PM
• Multiple departures throughout day

Shoulder season:

• Reduced schedule
• Check gjende.no for current times

Booking

When	How Far Ahead
Peak weekends	1-2 weeks
Peak weekdays	2-3 days
Shoulder season	1-2 days

Cost: 240 NOK ($23 USD) one-way

Tips

• Book early boats for quiet trails
• Arrive 15-20 minutes before departure
• Boats run regardless of weather (within reason)
• No reservations needed for return (hiking down)

Trail Sections Detailed

Section 1: Memurubu to Ridge Base (2-3 km)

Terrain: Forest then open mountainside Duration: 1-1.5 hours Elevation: 984m to ~1,200m

Starting from Memurubu, the trail climbs steadily through birch forest before emerging onto open slopes. Views of Lake Gjende open up behind you.

Section 2: Steep Climb to Besseggen (1 km)

Terrain: Steep, rocky scramble Duration: 1-1.5 hours Elevation: 1,200m to 1,550m

The steepest section of the hike. Use hands for balance in places. Not technically climbing, but requires care. This is where the views start to become extraordinary.

Section 3: The Ridge (2 km)

Terrain: Narrow ridge, exposed Duration: 1-2 hours Elevation: 1,550m (rolling)

The famous part—a narrow ridge with dramatic drops on both sides. In good conditions, it’s exhilarating rather than dangerous, but take your time and watch your footing. This is where you’ll take most of your photos.

Ridge conditions:

• Width: 1-3 meters in narrowest sections
• Exposure: Significant drops both sides
• Difficulty: No technical climbing required
• Danger: Low if you’re confident with heights

Section 4: Veslfjellet & Descent (7 km)

Terrain: Mountain plateau, then descent Duration: 3-4 hours Elevation: 1,550m down to 984m

After the ridge, the trail crosses open mountain terrain, summits Veslfjellet (1,743m—optional but recommended), and descends gradually to Gjendesheim. This section can feel long but offers beautiful views throughout.

Best Time to Hike

Monthly Conditions

Month	Conditions	Crowds
June (late)	Snow possible, cool	Light
July	Best weather, dry	Very High
August	Good weather	High
September	Cooler, fall colors	Moderate
October (early)	Cold, snow possible	Light

Weather Considerations

Check yr.no for Jotunheimen forecasts. Be prepared for:

• Rapid weather changes
• Cold temperatures at altitude (even summer)
• Rain at any time
• Wind on the exposed ridge

Getting There

To Gjendesheim

From Oslo: ~4 hours drive via E6 and Rv51 From Bergen: ~7 hours drive Public transport: Bus from Oslo to Beitostølen, then local bus to Gjendesheim

Parking

• Large parking lot at Gjendesheim
• Cost: NOK 150-200/day (~$15-20)
• Fills early on peak weekends—arrive by 7 AM

Accommodation

Gjendesheim:

• DNT lodge with dorms and private rooms
• Restaurant and facilities
• Book ahead in peak season

Memurubu:

• Starting point of hike
• Historic mountain lodge
• Overnight option if hiking in reverse

Find Besseggen Tours

What to Bring

Essential Gear

• Hiking boots: Sturdy, ankle support, broken-in
• Layers: Weather changes rapidly
• Rain jacket: Essential
• Warm layer: Fleece or down (cold on ridge)
• Hat and gloves: Even in summer
• Water: Minimum 1.5L
• Food: Lunch plus snacks (6-8 hour day)
• Map/GPS: Download offline maps
• Headlamp: In case of delays
• First aid kit: Basic supplies

Recommended Additions

• Trekking poles (helpful on descent)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Camera (you’ll want photos!)
• Cash (for boat, lodge)

Safety Tips

Before You Go

1. Check weather forecast (yr.no)
2. Book boat ticket in advance
3. Tell someone your plans
4. Start early for best experience
5. Check trail conditions online

On the Trail

1. Stay on marked path
2. Take care on the ridge
3. Turn back if weather worsens
4. Pace yourself—it’s a long day
5. Watch for mountain weather signs

Emergency

• Emergency number: 113
• Cell coverage: Patchy—don’t rely on it
• DNT lodges: Staff can help with emergencies
• Hjelp 113 app: Download before hiking

Alternative Routes

Longer Loop (No Boat)

Hike from Gjendesheim to Besseggen and back, adding ~5 km. More strenuous but avoids boat logistics.

Overnight Option

• Stay at Memurubu night before
• Early start on the ridge
• Most peaceful experience

Easier Alternative: Knutshøe

If Besseggen seems too challenging, Knutshøe (1,517m) offers excellent views without the exposed ridge. Trailhead at same location.

Photography Tips

Best Shots

1. Two lakes from the ridge: The classic image
2. Ridge with hikers: Shows scale
3. Lake Gjende reflection: Morning calm
4. Summit panoramas: 360-degree views
5. Wildflowers: July brings alpine blooms

Timing

• Morning: Soft light, fewer people
• Midday: Harsh light but clearest skies
• Golden hour: Beautiful but late (may run into darkness issues)

Combining with Other Hikes

Multi-Day Jotunheimen

Day	Hike
1	Besseggen Ridge
2	Galdhøpiggen (Norway’s highest)
3	Glittertind or rest day

Nearby Attractions

• Galdhøpiggen: Norway’s highest peak (2,469m)
• Glittertind: Second highest (2,465m)
• Styggevatnet: Glacier lake
• Lom Stave Church: Historic church en route

Practical Information

Costs Summary

Item	Price (USD)
Boat one-way	$17-20
Parking	$15-20/day
Gjendesheim dormitory	$35-50/night
Private room	$80-120/night
Guided hike	$100-150

Facilities

Gjendesheim:

• Restaurant and café
• Shop (limited hiking gear)
• Toilets
• Showers (for guests)
• Camping nearby

On trail:

• No facilities
• Natural water sources (drink from streams)

Final Thoughts

Besseggen Ridge earns its reputation as Norway’s most popular hike. The combination of dramatic ridge walking, the surreal two-lake view, and the grandeur of Jotunheimen makes for an unforgettable day in the mountains. Yes, it’s busy—but start early, hike mid-week if possible, and you’ll understand why 60,000 people make this pilgrimage every year. Just be prepared for the length, respect the mountain, and enjoy one of Europe’s finest hikes.

Understanding Jotunheimen National Park

Besseggen sits within Jotunheimen National Park—Norway’s premier mountain wilderness and one of Northern Europe’s most spectacular alpine environments.

Jotunheimen Facts

Detail	Information
Name meaning	”Home of the Giants” (Norse mythology)
Area	1,151 square kilometers
Established	1980
Highest peak	Galdhopiggen (2,469m) - Norway’s highest
Second highest	Glittertind (2,465m)
Peaks over 2,000m	More than 250
Main access points	Gjendesheim, Leirvassbu, Spiterstulen
DNT cabins	Multiple staffed and self-service

History of Besseggen

The Besseggen ridge has been a hiking destination for over 150 years. The route was immortalized in Henrik Ibsen’s 1867 play “Peer Gynt,” where the protagonist famously rides a reindeer along the ridge. This literary connection helped establish Besseggen as a must-do Norwegian experience.

The first tourists arrived in the 1860s when the Romantic movement drew artists and writers to Norway’s dramatic landscapes. Gjendesheim lodge was established in 1871 and has operated continuously since then, making it one of Norway’s oldest mountain lodges.

Comparing Besseggen to Other Norwegian Iconic Hikes

Besseggen vs. Trolltunga

Aspect	Besseggen	Trolltunga
Distance	14 km point to point	20-28 km round trip
Elevation Gain	~1,100m	320-1,317m
Time Required	6-8 hours	7-12 hours
Difficulty	Demanding	Demanding
Highest Point	1,743m	1,100m
Iconic Feature	Two-colored lakes, ridge walk	Rock tongue over lake
Annual Visitors	60,000	~80,000
Logistics	Requires boat ride	Car access to trailhead

Recommendation: Besseggen offers a true ridge walk with dramatic exposure. Trolltunga is a longer journey to a single iconic viewpoint. Both are demanding; choose based on whether you prefer ridge walking or cliff photography.

Besseggen vs. Preikestolen

Aspect	Besseggen	Preikestolen
Distance	14 km point to point	8 km round trip
Elevation Gain	~1,100m	334-500m
Time Required	6-8 hours	4-5 hours
Difficulty	Demanding	Moderate
Altitude	1,743m highest	604m above fjord
Type	Ridge walk	Cliff platform
Region	Jotunheimen (inland)	Lysefjord (coast)

Recommendation: Preikestolen is more accessible. Besseggen requires more commitment but delivers a completely different mountain experience with genuine high-altitude terrain.

Detailed Weather Considerations

Mountain Weather in Jotunheimen

Jotunheimen’s high altitude and inland position create distinct weather patterns. At 1,743m, conditions can be dramatically different from the valley.

Monthly Conditions:

Month	Temperature at Summit	Precipitation	Wind	Snow Risk
Late June	2-12C	Variable	Moderate	Snow patches possible
July	5-15C	Lowest	Light-Moderate	Clear
August	4-14C	Increasing	Moderate	Clear
September	0-10C	Variable	Increasing	First snow possible
Early October	-5 to 5C	Variable	Strong	Snow likely at altitude

Weather Hazards:

1. Wind on Ridge: The exposed ridge is dangerous in strong winds. Gusts can exceed 20 m/s.
2. Fog/Clouds: Ridge navigation becomes difficult. Steep drops on both sides create serious risk.
3. Rain: Wet rock is slippery. Rain combined with wind creates hypothermia risk.
4. Snow: Snow patches can linger into July at highest elevations. Early season requires caution.
5. Thunderstorms: Extremely dangerous on exposed ridge. Retreat immediately.

Weather Resources:

• Yr.no - Check Besseggen-specific forecast
• Varsom.no - Avalanche and weather warnings
• Gjendesheim lodge can provide local conditions

Complete Equipment Checklist

Essential Gear

Item	Specification	Why Essential
Hiking Boots	Sturdy, waterproof, ankle support	Rocky terrain, potential wet conditions
Backpack	25-35L with hip belt	Carry all supplies for 6-8 hours
Water	Minimum 1.5 liters	No reliable sources on ridge
Food	2,000+ calories	Long day at altitude
Rain Jacket	Waterproof, breathable	Weather changes rapidly
Rain Pants	Waterproof	Full protection essential
Warm Layer	Fleece + down/synthetic	Summit significantly colder
Hat and Gloves	Warm + windproof	Essential at 1,743m even in summer
Map/GPS	Offline maps downloaded	Navigation in poor visibility
Headlamp	Fresh batteries	In case of delayed return

Recommended Additions

Item	Purpose
Trekking Poles	Stability on rocky terrain, reduce knee strain
Sunglasses	Bright conditions at altitude
Sunscreen SPF 30+	High altitude sun exposure
First Aid Kit	Blister treatment, basic supplies
Camera	THE view of two-colored lakes
Cash (NOK)	Boat ticket, lodge purchases
Emergency Blanket	Lightweight, vital if stranded

Clothing System

Layer 1 - Base: Merino wool or synthetic (never cotton) Layer 2 - Insulation: Fleece jacket Layer 3 - Additional Warmth: Light down or synthetic jacket Layer 4 - Shell: Waterproof, windproof jacket and pants Feet: Waterproof boots, wool socks (bring spare) Head: Sun hat + warm beanie Hands: Lightweight gloves (windproof)

Photography Guide for Besseggen

The Iconic Two-Lake Shot

Besseggen’s signature image shows the contrast between green Lake Gjende and blue Lake Bessvatnet separated by the dramatic ridge.

Best Viewpoints:

1. Main Ridge Section: Multiple angles as you traverse
2. Veslfjellet Summit (1,743m): Panoramic views in all directions
3. Looking back toward Memurubu: Shows ridge with both lakes
4. Early in the ridge traverse: Classic two-lake composition

Optimal Lighting:

Time	Light Quality	Conditions
7-10 AM	Soft, warm	Best for photography
10 AM-3 PM	Harsh overhead	Worst conditions
3-7 PM	Improving	Good for return shots
Evening (summer)	Golden light	Spectacular if still on ridge

Camera Settings:

Scenario	Aperture	Shutter	ISO
Two-lake panorama	f/8-11	1/125+	100-400
Person on ridge	f/5.6-8	1/250+	Auto
Wide landscape	f/11-16	Variable	100
Moody clouds	f/8-11	1/125+	200-800

Composition Tips:

• Include person for scale on the narrow ridge
• Use leading lines of the ridge itself
• Frame both lakes in the same shot
• Capture the color contrast between green and blue
• Consider vertical/portrait format for social media

Transportation and Access

Getting to Gjendesheim

From Oslo:

• Distance: ~290 km
• Driving time: ~4 hours via E6 and Rv51
• Route: E6 north to Otta, then Rv15 and Rv51 west
• Scenic drive through Norwegian mountains

From Bergen:

• Distance: ~400 km
• Driving time: ~7 hours
• Multiple route options through mountain passes
• Consider overnight stop

From Trondheim:

• Distance: ~350 km
• Driving time: ~5.5 hours
• Via Oppdal and Rv15

Public Transport:

• Bus from Oslo to Beitostolen, then local bus to Gjendesheim
• Limited frequency—check schedules carefully
• Allow extra time for connections

Parking at Gjendesheim

Detail	Information
Location	At Gjendesheim lodge
Capacity	Large lot, can fill on peak weekends
Cost	150-200 NOK per day
Arrival time	Before 7:30 AM for first boat
Facilities	Toilets, lodge, restaurant

Accommodation Options

At Gjendesheim

Gjendesheim DNT Lodge:

Aspect	Details
Type	DNT staffed lodge
Established	1871
Rooms	Private and dormitory
Meals	Full service restaurant
Price range	500-1,500 NOK/night
DNT members	Discounted rates
Book ahead	Essential in summer

At Memurubu (Start Point)

Memurubu Mountain Lodge:

• Historic lodge at hiking start
• Overnight option for reverse hike
• Restaurant and accommodation
• Accessible by boat from Gjendesheim

Nearby Alternatives

Option	Distance	Features
Beitostolen	50 km	Full resort town, many hotels
Lom	80 km	Historic town, stave church
Camping	Various	Wild camping permitted (allemannsretten)

Practical Cost Summary

Item	Cost (NOK)	Cost (USD)
Gjendebaten boat (one way)	~240	$23
Parking (Gjendesheim)	150-200	$14-19
Gjendesheim dorm	400-600	$37-56
Gjendesheim private room	900-1,500	$85-140
Meals at lodge	150-350	$14-33
Guided hike	1,000-1,500	$95-140
Camping	Free	Free (wild camping)

Safety Information

Ridge-Specific Safety

The Ridge Section Demands Respect:

• Width: 1-3 meters in narrowest sections
• Drops: Steep on both sides (hundreds of meters)
• Difficulty: No technical climbing, but exposure significant
• Confidence with heights essential

When NOT to Attempt:

• Strong winds (above 15 m/s)
• Rain or wet conditions
• Fog or low visibility
• Thunderstorms
• If you have fear of heights
• If you are exhausted

Emergency Information

Service	Number	Notes
Emergency (all)	112	Police, fire, ambulance
Ambulance	113	Medical emergencies
Mountain rescue	Via 112	State “Besseggen” clearly
Gjendesheim lodge	+47 61 23 89 44	Local assistance

Mobile Coverage: Patchy on ridge. Summit usually has signal. Download offline maps before hiking.

Hjelp 113 App: Download this Norwegian emergency app—shares your GPS coordinates with emergency services.

Multi-Day Jotunheimen Itineraries

Two-Day Besseggen Focus

Day	Activity	Accommodation
1	Travel to Gjendesheim, explore area	Gjendesheim lodge
2	Besseggen hike, return to base	Gjendesheim or depart

Three-Day Jotunheimen Adventure

Day	Activity	Accommodation
1	Travel, evening exploration	Gjendesheim
2	Besseggen hike	Gjendesheim
3	Galdhopiggen or Glittertind summit	Spiterstulen or depart

Week-Long Norwegian Hiking Tour

Day	Location	Hike
1-2	Jotunheimen	Besseggen Ridge
3	Travel day	Drive to Hardangerfjord
4-5	Odda	Trolltunga
6	Travel day	Drive to Stavanger
7	Stavanger	Preikestolen

Final Thoughts

Besseggen Ridge represents Norwegian hiking at its finest—a dramatic ridge walk between two impossibly colored lakes in the heart of Jotunheimen’s alpine wilderness. The combination of accessible challenge, iconic scenery, and rich cultural heritage explains why 60,000 hikers make this pilgrimage annually.

The ridge demands respect. Good fitness is essential. Weather awareness is critical. The narrow section with drops on both sides requires confidence with exposure. But for those properly prepared, Besseggen delivers an experience that ranks among Europe’s finest day hikes.

Take the early boat. Bring proper gear. Check the weather obsessively. And when you stand on that ridge, with green water far below on one side and blue water gleaming above on the other, you’ll understand why Henrik Ibsen’s Peer Gynt rode this ridge in the Norwegian imagination, and why hikers have followed ever since.

As Norwegians say: “God tur!”—Have a good trip.

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For official information, visit Visit Norway Besseggen and Gjendebaten. Approximately 60,000 hikers complete Besseggen annually. The 14km trail reaches 1,743m altitude with approximately 1,100m total elevation change. The Gjendebaten boat costs approximately 240 NOK. Always check weather conditions at Yr.no before hiking. Last updated January 2026.