Norway offers some of the world’s most spectacular hiking—dramatic mountain trails overlooking fjords, Arctic tundra walks under the midnight sun, and iconic rock formations that have become bucket-list destinations for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. With over 385,000 square kilometers of territory spanning from the North Sea to the Arctic Ocean, and featuring 1,624 glaciers, more than 50,000 islands, and Europe’s longest coastline at 25,148 kilometers, Norway presents a hiking landscape of extraordinary diversity. From the famous Trolltunga and Preikestolen to lesser-known gems throughout the Norwegian wilderness, hiking here delivers landscapes that seem almost impossible.
According to Statistics Norway (SSB), the country welcomed over 25.3 million hotel guest nights in 2023, with summer months (June-August) accounting for approximately 9.1 million of those nights—representing 36% of annual tourism concentrated in peak hiking season. The five most popular hiking trails—Trolltunga, Preikestolen, Besseggen, Kjeragbolten, and Romsdalseggen—collectively attract over 500,000 hikers annually, making proper planning essential for the best experience.
But Norway’s mountains demand respect: changeable weather, exposed terrain, and remote locations require proper preparation and knowledge. As Norwegians say, “Det finnes ikke darlig vaer, bare darlig klaer” (There is no bad weather, only bad clothing)—a philosophy that has kept generations safe in these challenging environments.
Understanding Norwegian Hiking Culture: Friluftsliv
Before diving into specific trails, understanding Norway’s unique outdoor culture helps explain why hiking is so accessible here. “Friluftsliv” (literally “free-air life”) represents the Norwegian philosophy of connecting with nature through outdoor activities. This cultural tradition, dating back centuries, has shaped everything from trail infrastructure to legal frameworks.
Allemannsretten: The Right to Roam
Norway’s “Allemannsretten” (everyman’s right) grants everyone—locals and visitors alike—the freedom to:
| Right | Details | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Walk anywhere | All uncultivated land accessible | Respect growing crops, stay 150m from homes |
| Camp wild | Free camping on open land | Maximum 2 nights same location, 150m from buildings |
| Forage | Pick berries, mushrooms, flowers | Not protected species |
| Swim/boat | Access to lakes, rivers, sea | Respect private jetties |
| Cycle/ski | Non-motorized travel | On suitable terrain |
This ancient right means Norway has no “trespassing” concept on open land—a remarkable freedom that hiking visitors often find astonishing compared to more restricted countries.
Norway’s Iconic Hikes
Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue)
Norway’s most famous and photographed viewpoint—a horizontal rock formation jutting 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Odda, Vestland county |
| Elevation | 1,180 m above sea level |
| From Skjeggedal (P2) | 27 km round trip, 10-12 hours |
| From Magelitopp (P3) | 20 km round trip, 7-10 hours |
| Elevation gain | 800 m from P2, 320 m from P3 |
| Trail grade | Red (demanding) |
| Official season | June 15 - September 15 |
| Winter requirement | Certified guide mandatory |
| Annual visitors | Approximately 100,000 |
| Parking P3 | NOK 600/day, 30 spaces (book ahead) |
The Experience:
The iconic rock formation—a horizontal slab of stone jutting dramatically over the void—has become one of Norway’s most recognizable natural landmarks. The hike itself traverses varied terrain: steep initial ascent, mountain plateau walking, and finally descent to the famous tongue. The reward is not just the photo opportunity, but the journey through landscapes that shift from forested valleys to bare mountain tundra.
What Makes It Special:
- Spectacular Ringedalsvatnet lake views 700 m below
- Journey through multiple climate zones
- True wilderness experience despite popularity
- Testing personal limits on a memorable achievement
Practical Planning:
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Start time | Before 8 AM recommended (10 AM cutoff enforced in peak season) |
| Food/water | 2-3 liters water minimum, lunch + snacks for 10-12 hours |
| Fitness requirement | Excellent—equivalent to hiking 2,500m vertical in a day |
| Booking | P3 parking books out weeks ahead in July-August |
| Weather backup | Flexible dates essential; trail closes in bad weather |
| Costs | Parking NOK 300-600, guided tour NOK 1,500-2,500 |
Insider Tips from 25 Years on Norwegian Trails:
- P3 (Magelitopp) parking saves 800m of elevation gain—worth the premium for most hikers
- The initial ascent from P2 is the hardest part; if you struggle there, reconsider continuing
- Crowds at Trolltunga itself peak 11 AM-3 PM; timing your arrival earlier or later dramatically improves the experience
- The unmarked “shortcut” routes visible on some GPS apps are dangerous—stick to marked trail
- Cell phone coverage is intermittent; download offline maps before departing
See our detailed Trolltunga Guide for complete information.
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
The classic Norwegian hike—Norway’s most visited natural attraction with over 300,000 annual visitors:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Forsand, Rogaland county (near Stavanger) |
| Height above fjord | 604 m vertical drop to Lysefjord |
| Round trip | 8 km |
| Duration | 4-5 hours |
| Elevation gain | 350 m |
| Trail grade | Blue-Red (moderate-challenging) |
| Season | Year-round (winter requires experience) |
| Annual visitors | 300,000+ |
| Parking | NOK 250-350/day |
The Experience:
Preikestolen offers the perfect introduction to Norwegian hiking—challenging enough to feel accomplished, short enough for reasonable fitness levels, and visually spectacular throughout. The flat cliff platform measuring approximately 25 x 25 meters offers unprotected views straight down 604 meters to Lysefjord below. Unlike manufactured viewpoints, there are no barriers or railings—just raw rock and void.
Why It’s Iconic:
- Flat cliff platform with unobstructed fjord views
- Most accessible of Norway’s famous viewpoints
- Spectacular in all weather conditions (fog creates dramatic atmosphere)
- Possible year-round (with appropriate preparation)
- Featured in Mission Impossible: Fallout (2018)
Trail Breakdown:
| Section | Distance | Terrain | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parking to forest end | 1.5 km | Improved path, steps | Steady climb |
| Forest to plateau | 1 km | Rocky, steep sections | Most challenging |
| Plateau crossing | 1 km | Flat, boardwalk sections | Easy walking |
| Final approach | 0.5 km | Rock scrambling | Exposed, careful footing |
Practical Tips:
- Start by 7 AM in summer to avoid crowds (parking fills by 9 AM in peak season)
- Proper hiking boots essential—smooth surfaces become extremely slippery when wet
- Stay back from cliff edge—no barriers, serious fatal falls have occurred
- Stavanger makes an excellent base (30-minute drive + 15-minute ferry to trailhead)
- Winter hiking possible but requires crampons, experience, and ideally a guide
See our detailed Preikestolen Guide for complete information.
Besseggen Ridge
Norway’s most popular mountain hike—a dramatic ridge walk between two lakes of strikingly different colors:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Jotunheimen National Park, Innlandet county |
| Distance | 13 km (one way, point to point) |
| Duration | 6-8 hours |
| Highest point | 1,743 m (Bessho) |
| Elevation gain | 900 m cumulative |
| Trail grade | Red (demanding) with Black (expert) sections |
| Season | Late June - September |
| Annual hikers | 60,000+ |
| Ferry booking | Essential—sells out weeks ahead |
The Experience:
Besseggen delivers what many consider Norway’s finest day hike—a ridge traverse between Lake Gjende (emerald green, 984 m) and Lake Bessvatnet (dark blue, 1,373 m), with views spanning Jotunheimen’s highest peaks. The exposed ridge section, while not technically difficult, requires sure-footedness and comfort with heights.
Route Logistics:
The classic route requires ferry transport to create a point-to-point traverse:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Start | Gjendesheim (facilities, parking) |
| 2. Ferry | 8:30 AM departure to Memurubu (book weeks ahead) |
| 3. Hike | Memurubu to Besseggen summit to Gjendesheim |
| 4. Return | Arrive back at Gjendesheim (car/bus access) |
Ferry Information:
- Operator: Gjendebatene
- First departure: 7:30 AM
- Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes peak season
- Duration: 20 minutes
- Price: NOK 150-200 one-way
- Booking: Essential July-August (gjende.no)
The Exposed Section:
The narrowest ridge section (approximately 500 m) involves:
- Steep scrambling on stable rock
- Exposure on both sides (hundreds of meters drop)
- Fixed chains in the steepest section
- No technical climbing skill required, but confidence essential
- Vertigo sufferers may struggle
Insider Knowledge:
- Book ferry tickets 2-4 weeks ahead for peak summer
- Start early (first ferry) to have ridge to yourself
- Weather changes rapidly in Jotunheimen—check yr.no morning of hike
- The ridge section is easier ascending from Memurubu than descending
- Gjendesheim offers excellent post-hike food and accommodation
Kjeragbolten
The boulder wedged between two cliffs—one of Norway’s most dramatic photo opportunities:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lysefjord, Rogaland county |
| Round trip | 10 km |
| Duration | 5-6 hours |
| Elevation gain | 570 m (three steep sections) |
| Trail grade | Red (demanding) |
| Boulder height | 984 m above Lysefjord |
| Season | June - October |
| Parking | NOK 300/day at Oygardstol |
The Experience:
The hike to Kjeragbolten involves three distinct steep ascents and descents across a mountain plateau before reaching the famous boulder—a 5-cubic-meter rock wedged in a crevasse with 984 meters of nothing below. Standing on the boulder is optional but creates an unforgettable (and terrifying) photograph.
Trail Profile:
| Section | Character | Challenge |
|---|---|---|
| Section 1 | Steep chains, 400m climb | Most difficult |
| Plateau 1 | Flat walking | Easy |
| Section 2 | Moderate descent/ascent | Moderate |
| Plateau 2 | Flat with some scrambling | Easy-moderate |
| Section 3 | Final approach to boulder | Moderate |
Standing on the Boulder:
The famous photograph requires:
- Waiting your turn (queues common in summer)
- Stepping across a gap onto the wedged boulder
- Nerves of steel (nothing below but 984m of air)
- Completely optional—many visitors photograph the boulder without standing on it
- Deaths have occurred—assess your comfort level honestly
Romsdalseggen
The dramatic ridge with views over Andalsnes and Romsdalen valley—often called Norway’s most beautiful hike:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Andalsnes, More og Romsdal county |
| Distance | 10 km (one way, point to point) |
| Duration | 6-8 hours |
| Highest point | 1,218 m |
| Elevation gain | 850 m |
| Trail grade | Red (demanding) |
| Season | July - September |
| Annual hikers | 15,000-20,000 |
The Experience:
Romsdalseggen delivers what many experienced Norwegian hikers consider the country’s finest ridge walk—a traverse offering continuous dramatic views over the Romsdal valley, Trollveggen (Europe’s tallest vertical rock face), and the surrounding peaks of the Romsdal Alps.
Logistics:
- Point-to-point hike requiring shuttle bus to starting point
- Bus departs Andalsnes morning (book through Visit Andalsnes)
- Hike from Vengedalen to Andalsnes
- Some exposed sections with chains
- Requires good weather for full experience
Regional Hiking Highlights
Lofoten Islands
Arctic hiking paradise with dramatic peaks rising directly from the sea:
| Trail | Elevation | Duration | Difficulty | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reinebringen | 448 m | 2-3 hours | Moderate | Iconic Reine view |
| Ryten (Kvalvika Beach) | 543 m | 4-5 hours | Moderate | Beach + peak combo |
| Offersoykkammen | 436 m | 2-3 hours | Moderate | Panoramic views |
| Mannen | 400 m | 3-4 hours | Easy-Moderate | Family-friendly |
| Himmeltindan | 964 m | 6-8 hours | Challenging | Multi-peak traverse |
Lofoten Hiking Considerations:
- Weather changes extremely rapidly—always carry rain gear
- Midnight sun (late May - mid July) allows evening/night hiking
- Reinebringen now has 1,560 Sherpa-built stone steps (improved safety)
- Winter hiking can be dangerous without proper equipment and experience
- Beaches like Kvalvika and Uttakleiv make excellent post-hike relaxation
Jotunheimen National Park
Home of the Giants—Norway’s premier mountain destination:
| Peak/Route | Elevation | Duration | Difficulty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galdhopiggen | 2,469 m | 7-9 hours | Challenging | Northern Europe’s highest |
| Glittertind | 2,465 m | 8-10 hours | Challenging | Glacier crossing |
| Besseggen | 1,743 m | 6-8 hours | Challenging | Most popular |
| Hurrungane traverse | Various | Multi-day | Expert | Technical alpine |
| Skagastolstind | 2,405 m | Full day | Expert | Requires guide/rope |
Jotunheimen Infrastructure:
- Extensive network of DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) huts
- Staffed huts offer meals, unstaffed require DNT key
- Classic hut-to-hut routes possible without camping
- Glacier crossings require guide or extensive experience
Hardangervidda
Europe’s largest mountain plateau—vast tundra landscape:
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Area | 8,000 km2 (larger than some countries) |
| Terrain | Gentle, rolling tundra |
| Difficulty | Mostly easy-moderate |
| Wildlife | Wild reindeer (Europe’s largest herd, 7,000+ animals) |
| Season | June - October |
| Best for | Multi-day trekking, beginners, solitude seekers |
Hardangervidda Routes:
- Gateway to Trolltunga
- Historic Rallarvegen (Navvy Road) cycle/walk route
- DNT hut network enables 5-14 day crossings
- Bird watching (Golden plovers, ptarmigan, snowy owls)
- Relatively safe terrain for solo hiking
Lyngen Alps (Northern Norway)
Alpine peaks above the Arctic Circle:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Highest peak | Store Lenangstind (1,625 m) |
| Character | Technical alpine, glaciers, fjord access |
| Season | July-August (skiing until June) |
| Best for | Experienced mountaineers, ski touring |
| Access | From Tromso (70 km) |
Trail Grading System
Understanding Norwegian Trail Markers
Norway uses a standardized color-coded system established by DNT (Den Norske Turistforening):
| Color | Grade | Description | Example Trails |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green | Easy | Well-maintained, suitable for families, minimal steep sections | Many Hardangervidda trails |
| Blue | Moderate | Some challenging sections, good fitness required | Preikestolen (mostly) |
| Red | Demanding | Steep, rough terrain, previous hiking experience essential | Trolltunga, Besseggen |
| Black | Expert | Technical, exposed, may require equipment, expert only | Besseggen narrow section, glacier routes |
Trail Marking Types
| Marking | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red “T” | DNT marked summer route |
| Blue “T” | DNT marked winter route |
| Cairns (varder) | Stone piles marking route above treeline |
| Paint blazes | On rocks where cairns impractical |
| Signposts | At intersections with distances |
Hiking Season
Best Months by Region
| Region | Season | Peak | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Norway (Fjords) | May - October | June - September | Trolltunga: June 15 - Sept 15 |
| Central Norway (Jotunheimen) | Late June - September | July - August | Snow possible into July at altitude |
| Lofoten Islands | May - October | June - August | Midnight sun May 28 - July 14 |
| Northern Norway (Tromso+) | July - August | Late July | Shorter optimal window |
| Svalbard | June - August | July | Polar bear precautions required |
Seasonal Conditions
May-June (Early Season):
- Snow on higher trails (above 1,000 m often blocked)
- Rivers and streams swollen with snowmelt
- Spectacular waterfalls at peak flow
- Fewer crowds, better accommodation availability
- Some facilities/ferries not yet operating
July-August (Peak Season):
- Best weather probability (though still variable)
- All trails typically accessible
- Midnight sun in northern regions
- Highest crowds, book accommodation/ferries weeks ahead
- July 2023 saw 3.35 million hotel nights—Norway’s busiest month ever (SSB)
September-October (Autumn):
- Stunning autumn colors (“hostfarger”)
- Cooler temperatures, shorter days
- Fewer crowds, better prices
- Some facilities closing
- Snow possible at any elevation late September
Winter Hiking (October-May)
Critical Requirements:
- Winter mountaineering experience
- Proper equipment (crampons, ice axes, avalanche gear)
- Guided tours strongly recommended for famous trails
- Many trails closed or dangerous
- Avalanche awareness training essential
- Daylight limited (Tromso: 0 hours late November-mid January)
Essential Gear
Clothing (The Layering System)
Norwegian mountains demand systematic layering—conditions can shift from sunshine to snow within hours:
| Layer | Material | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Merino wool or synthetic | Moisture wicking, warmth | Wool underwear, hiking shirt |
| Mid | Fleece, down, or wool | Insulation | Fleece jacket, down vest |
| Outer | Waterproof breathable | Rain/wind protection | Gore-Tex jacket and pants |
The Norwegian Approach:
- Avoid cotton entirely (“cotton kills”—it loses insulation when wet)
- Merino wool preferred over synthetic (odor resistant, warm when damp)
- Lightweight layers that can be added/removed quickly
- Shell layers carried even on sunny days
Footwear
| Trail Type | Recommended | Critical Features |
|---|---|---|
| Well-maintained paths | Trail running shoes/light hikers | Grip, ankle flexibility |
| Rocky terrain (most famous trails) | Mid-cut hiking boots | Ankle support, rock protection |
| Wet/slippery conditions | Boots with aggressive tread | Waterproof, excellent grip |
| Snow/glacier | Mountaineering boots | Crampon compatible |
Essential Footwear Guidance:
- Break in boots thoroughly before any serious hike
- Waterproof essential for Norwegian conditions
- Grip more important than comfort for rocky trails
- Gaiters useful for wet grass and shallow stream crossings
Equipment Checklist
Navigation:
- Topographic map of area (Nordeca or Turkart series)
- GPS device or phone app (ut.no, Norgeskart)
- Compass (electronic devices can fail)
- Downloaded offline maps (cell coverage often absent)
Safety:
- Headlamp with spare batteries (essential even in summer—weather can trap you)
- First aid kit (blister treatment, pain relief, bandages)
- Emergency shelter/bivy (lightweight survival bag minimum)
- Whistle (international distress: 6 blasts per minute)
- Fully charged phone (emergency calls work even without signal via 112)
- Power bank for phone
Sustenance:
- Water: 2-3 liters minimum (more for long hikes)
- High-energy snacks (Norwegian “kvikklunsj” chocolate bars are traditional)
- Full lunch for day hikes
- Water purification option (though Norwegian mountain water generally safe)
Protection:
- Sunscreen SPF 30+ (high altitude UV intense)
- Sunglasses (snow/water reflection)
- Sun hat and warm hat (both often needed same day)
- Gloves (even in summer above 1,500 m)
Recommended Packing List
| Item | Day Hike | Multi-Day |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof jacket | Essential | Essential |
| Waterproof pants | Essential | Essential |
| Base layer top | 1 | 2-3 |
| Insulation layer | 1 | 2 |
| Hiking pants | 1 | 2 |
| Warm hat | 1 | 1 |
| Sun hat | 1 | 1 |
| Gloves | 1 pair | 2 pairs |
| Map/GPS | Essential | Essential |
| Headlamp | Essential | Essential |
| First aid | Basic | Comprehensive |
| Food | Day supply | Daily needs |
| Water/purification | 2-3L capacity | 2L + purification |
| Emergency shelter | Bivy bag | Tent/bivy |
| Sleeping gear | N/A | Bag + pad |
| Stove/fuel | N/A | As needed |
Safety Guidelines
Before You Go
Planning Essentials:
- Check weather forecast on yr.no (Norwegian Meteorological Institute)—most accurate for Norway
- Research current trail conditions (ut.no, local tourist offices)
- File a trip plan (turplan)—inform someone of route and expected return
- Know your fitness limits honestly—Norwegian trails are not the place to discover them
- Start early—afternoon weather deterioration is common
Weather Assessment:
| Warning Sign | Action |
|---|---|
| Rapidly falling pressure | Consider postponing |
| Forecast >15 m/s wind at altitude | Avoid exposed ridges |
| Precipitation + low temps | Risk of hypothermia—prepare or postpone |
| Fog/low visibility forecast | GPS essential, consider easier route |
| Thunderstorm warning | Do not start; if caught, descend from ridges immediately |
On the Trail
Best Practices:
- Stay on marked trails (erosion and safety)
- Don’t underestimate distances—Norwegian trails are often rougher than expected
- Pace yourself—save energy for the return
- Take regular breaks—every 45-60 minutes
- Keep group together—wait at junctions
- Turn back if conditions deteriorate—the mountain will be there tomorrow
Energy Management:
- Eat before you’re hungry (every 90 minutes)
- Drink before you’re thirsty (every 30 minutes)
- Norwegian wisdom: “Eat your way up, drink your way down”
Emergency Contacts
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency (all services) | 112 | Works even without signal/SIM |
| Police | 112 | Mountain rescue coordinated here |
| Ambulance | 113 | Medical emergencies |
| Fire | 110 | Fire services |
| JRCC Southern Norway | +47 51 51 70 00 | Sea rescue coordination |
| JRCC Northern Norway | +47 75 55 90 00 | Northern rescue coordination |
If Emergency Occurs:
- Call 112—works even without cell coverage in many areas
- Provide: Location (GPS coordinates), nature of emergency, number of people
- Stay with victim unless going for help
- International distress signal: 6 whistle blasts/light flashes per minute
- Orange or red clothing increases visibility for rescuers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Consequence | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Starting too late | Caught in darkness/bad weather | Begin by 8 AM for major hikes |
| Inadequate clothing | Hypothermia risk | Carry full layers regardless of forecast |
| Cotton clothing | Hypothermia when wet | Wool and synthetic only |
| Ignoring weather forecasts | Exposure to dangerous conditions | Check yr.no morning of hike |
| No trip plan filed | Delayed rescue if needed | Always inform someone |
| Overestimating fitness | Exhaustion, inability to return | Start with easier trails |
| Wrong footwear | Falls, blisters, injury | Proper boots for terrain |
| Insufficient food/water | Fatigue, dehydration | 2-3L water, 2,500+ calories |
Guided vs. Independent Hiking
When to Choose Guided Tours
Strongly Recommended:
- Winter hiking (October-May) on any significant trail
- Glacier crossings (Galdhopiggen, Folgefonna)
- Remote multi-day treks without hut experience
- First-time challenging hikes (Trolltunga, Besseggen)
- Bad weather possibilities with no flexibility to postpone
Benefits of Guides:
- Local knowledge of conditions, shortcuts, dangers
- Safety expertise and emergency training
- Equipment provided (particularly valuable for glacier tours)
- Weather assessment experience
- Route finding in poor visibility
- Support if you struggle
Guide Costs (2024-2025):
| Tour Type | Duration | Price Range (NOK) |
|---|---|---|
| Trolltunga guided day hike | 10-12 hours | 1,500-2,500 |
| Preikestolen guided | 4-5 hours | 800-1,200 |
| Glacier hike (Jostedalsbreen) | 4-6 hours | 900-1,500 |
| Besseggen guided | 7-9 hours | 1,200-2,000 |
| Winter Trolltunga | 2 days | 4,000-6,000 |
Independent Hiking
Suitable When:
- Good weather forecast with stable conditions
- Popular trails with other hikers present
- Previous hiking experience in similar terrain
- Proper equipment in your possession
- Good fitness level for chosen route
- Summer season (June-September)
Essential Preparations:
- Thorough route research (ut.no, guidebooks)
- Multiple weather source checks
- Trip plan filed with contact person
- Offline maps downloaded
- Full safety equipment carried
- Realistic fitness assessment
Accommodation Options
DNT Huts (Den Norske Turistforening)
The Norwegian Trekking Association operates an extensive mountain hut network—the backbone of Norwegian hiking infrastructure:
| Hut Type | Features | Booking | Cost (members/non-members) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staffed | Meals served, bedding provided, hot showers | Recommended | NOK 500-700 / NOK 700-950 per night |
| Self-service | Kitchen, bedding, no staff | Not required | NOK 300-400 / NOK 450-550 per night |
| Unstaffed | Basic shelter, bring own food | DNT key required | NOK 200-300 / NOK 350-450 per night |
DNT Membership (2025 Pricing):
- Annual cost: NOK 835 (adult), NOK 430 (youth 13-26)
- Provides: Discounted hut stays, maps at discount, DNT key for unstaffed huts
- Cabin prices: 330 NOK (member) vs 500 NOK (non-member) at staffed huts
- Worth it: If staying 2+ nights in huts annually
- Join at turistforeningen.no
- Network includes 500+ cabins across Norway
Wild Camping
Under Allemannsretten, wild camping is permitted with these guidelines:
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Distance from buildings | Minimum 150 meters |
| Duration | Maximum 2 nights same location |
| Land type | Uncultivated land only |
| Fire | Prohibited April 15 - September 15 (forest fire risk) |
| Waste | Pack out everything |
| Tent placement | On durable surfaces, no damage to vegetation |
Mountain Hotels and Lodges
For comfort without camping:
| Property | Location | Character | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turtagro Hotel | Jotunheimen | Classic mountaineering base | NOK 1,200-2,000 |
| Gjendesheim | Besseggen | Historic lodge, ferry access | NOK 900-1,400 |
| Fondsbu | Jotunheimen | DNT flagship hut | NOK 600-900 |
| Juvasshytta | Galdhopiggen base | Glacier access | NOK 800-1,200 |
Sample Hiking Itineraries
Long Weekend: Fjord Hikes (3 Days)
| Day | Hike | Duration | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Travel to Stavanger, Preikestolen afternoon | 4-5 hrs hike | Stavanger |
| 2 | Kjeragbolten full day | 5-6 hrs hike | Stavanger |
| 3 | Recovery, explore Stavanger, depart | - | Home |
Budget Estimate: NOK 4,000-6,000 per person (flights not included)
One Week: Classic Norway Hikes (7 Days)
| Day | Location | Activity | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Bergen | City exploration | Bergen |
| 2 | Bergen to Odda | Transfer, explore | Odda |
| 3 | Trolltunga | Full day hike (10-12 hrs) | Odda |
| 4 | Odda to Stavanger | Recovery day, travel | Stavanger |
| 5 | Preikestolen | Hike (4-5 hrs) + Lysefjord cruise | Stavanger |
| 6 | Kjeragbolten or rest | Optional hike (5-6 hrs) | Stavanger |
| 7 | Departure | Home |
Budget Estimate: NOK 12,000-18,000 per person
Two Weeks: Complete Hiking Adventure (14 Days)
| Days | Region | Hikes/Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Bergen | Arrival, Mt. Floyen, city walks |
| 3-4 | Odda area | Trolltunga (full day), recovery |
| 5-6 | Stavanger | Preikestolen, Kjeragbolten |
| 7-9 | Jotunheimen | Besseggen, Galdhopiggen base |
| 10-12 | Lofoten | Reinebringen, Ryten, beaches |
| 13-14 | Return | Via Oslo or Tromso |
Budget Estimate: NOK 25,000-40,000 per person
Final Advice
Norway’s mountains offer experiences that range from gentle plateau walks to challenging ridge scrambles, all set against some of Earth’s most dramatic scenery. After 25 years exploring these landscapes, my advice remains consistent: the key to enjoying Norwegian hiking is honest assessment of your abilities, thorough preparation, and healthy respect for the weather.
Start with trails matching your experience level, build up gradually, and don’t let social media pressure push you beyond your capabilities. The mountains will be there—it’s better to return for a hike another day than to push through in dangerous conditions. I’ve seen too many rescues triggered by ego overriding judgment.
Whether you’re standing on Trolltunga’s famous rock tongue, gazing over Lysefjord from Preikestolen’s edge, or crossing Besseggen’s dramatic ridge, Norwegian hiking delivers moments that stay with you forever. The country’s 385,000 square kilometers of wilderness, 1,624 glaciers, and thousands of kilometers of marked trails offer literally a lifetime of exploration. Prepare properly, respect the mountains, and enjoy one of the world’s great outdoor destinations.
As we say in Norway: “Ut pa tur, aldri sur”—out on a hike, never sour. The mountains have a way of putting life in perspective.
Information in this guide is sourced from Visit Norway, DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association), Statistics Norway (SSB), and Norwegian outdoor authorities. Trail conditions vary—always check current information before hiking. Last updated January 2026.