Reinebringen Hike
Lofoten's Most Iconic View 2025

Reinebringen isn’t just Lofoten’s most famous hike—it’s home to what many consider Norway’s single most photographed viewpoint. From the 448-meter summit, you gaze down upon Reine village spreading across its peninsula, red rorbu cabins dotting the shoreline, surrounded by turquoise waters and dramatic granite peaks rising directly from the sea. This singular vista has graced thousands of magazine covers, travel documentaries, and social media feeds, effectively defining the visual identity of Arctic Norway for millions of viewers worldwide.

The hike itself is short but unrelentingly intense: over 1,500 hand-laid stone steps climbing steeply upward without respite. There’s no gentle warm-up section, no flat recovery terrain—just step after demanding step until suddenly, spectacularly, you emerge onto a rocky plateau overlooking one of Earth’s genuinely magical landscapes.

Reinebringen (pronounced “RAY-neh-BRING-en”) sits at 67.93°N latitude, well above the Arctic Circle in the Lofoten Islands of Northern Norway. This positioning means hikers experience the full spectrum of Arctic phenomena: during the midnight sun period (May 28 to July 14 in Lofoten), you can summit at any hour with golden light bathing the landscape. According to Statistics Norway (SSB), Northern Norway’s tourism sector has grown substantially, with the Lofoten archipelago welcoming an estimated 500,000+ annual visitors to a region with only 24,000 permanent residents—and Reinebringen stands as perhaps the most-visited single viewpoint in the islands.

The trail’s transformation from a dangerous erosion gully to a proper mountain staircase represents one of Norway’s most significant trail infrastructure investments in recent years, with Sherpa stonemasons from Nepal—the same craftsmen who maintain Himalayan trails—hand-laying each stone at a cost exceeding NOK 20 million.

Trail Overview: Complete Technical Specifications

Key Statistics

Metric	Specification
Summit Elevation	448 meters above sea level
Total Distance	5 km round trip (2.5 km each way)
Elevation Gain	400 meters (1,312 feet)
Total Steps	1,978 (hand-laid Sherpa stone)
Average Step Height	~20-25 cm
Duration	2.5 hours round trip
Difficulty Classification	Challenging (Norwegian “rod” rating)
GPS Coordinates (Summit)	67.9311N, 13.0847E
GPS Coordinates (Trailhead)	67 degrees 55’20.4”N, 13 degrees 04’42.1”E
Season	Late May through October
Winter Status	PROHIBITED (dangerous conditions)
Cost	Free (no fees, free parking)
June 2024 Visitors	41,000

Understanding the Difficulty Rating

Norwegian hiking difficulty classifications:

• Grønn (Green): Easy, suitable for all
• Blå (Blue): Moderate, some hiking experience helpful
• Rød (Red): Challenging, good fitness required
• Svart (Black): Expert, technical skills needed

Reinebringen earns its “rød” (red/challenging) rating through:

• Sustained steep gradient throughout
• No recovery sections on ascent
• Significant cardiovascular demand
• Knee stress on descent
• Exposed summit area

The Sherpa Staircase: A Remarkable Engineering Achievement

Historical Context:

Before 2019, Reinebringen’s explosive popularity was literally destroying the mountain. The original trail—never designed for heavy traffic—eroded into a dangerous gully of loose rock and exposed roots. Search and rescue teams frequently responded to injured hikers, and the environmental damage became untenable.

The Solution:

Norway’s national hiking organization (DNT—Den Norske Turistforening) partnered with Nepalese Sherpa stonemasons—the world’s foremost experts in high-altitude trail construction—to build a sustainable path.

Project Details	Specifications
Total Investment	NOK 20+ million (~$2 million USD)
Construction Period	2017-2019
Stone Steps	1,978 individual hand-laid stones
Craftsmen	Nepalese Sherpa stonemasons
Design Standard	Himalayan trail-building techniques
Environmental Purpose	Stop erosion, protect vegetation
Safety Improvement	Dramatically reduced accidents
Equivalent Climb	~130 flights of stairs

The Craftsmanship:

Each stone was individually selected, shaped, and placed by hand. The Sherpa technique creates steps that:

• Drain water effectively
• Remain stable in freeze-thaw cycles
• Provide consistent footing
• Blend with natural surroundings
• Require minimal maintenance

Insider Tip: Take a moment during your hike to appreciate the craftsmanship—each stone represents hours of skilled labor by craftsmen who travel from Nepal specifically for such projects.

Detailed Trail Section Breakdown

Section 1: Trailhead to Staircase Start (0-200 meters)

Aspect	Details
Duration	5-10 minutes
Terrain	Gravel path, minor elevation
Markers	Clear signage at trailhead
Facilities	None (use Reine facilities beforehand)

From roadside parking, follow the obvious gravel path toward the mountain. The trail crosses a small stream via footbridge before reaching the base of the stone staircase. This section serves as your only “warm-up.”

Section 2: Lower Staircase (200-600 meters)

Aspect	Details
Duration	30-40 minutes
Terrain	Stone steps, varying heights
Gradient	Steep from the start
Views	Glimpses of fjord begin

The climb begins immediately—no gradual introduction. Steps in this section traverse rockier terrain with some larger boulder sections between constructed stairs. Pace yourself here; the climb doesn’t ease.

Insider Tip: Many hikers burn out in this section by starting too fast. Find a sustainable rhythm immediately—you’ll need energy for the full ascent.

Section 3: Main Staircase (600-1,400 meters)

Aspect	Details
Duration	30-45 minutes
Terrain	Continuous stone steps
Gradient	Consistently steep
Views	Increasingly spectacular

This section represents the heart of the climb—continuous stone steps ascending the mountain’s spine. The craftsmanship is most visible here, with uniform step heights creating a predictable (if demanding) rhythm.

Section 4: Final Approach and Summit (1,400-1,600 meters)

Aspect	Details
Duration	10-15 minutes
Terrain	Steps transitioning to rocky plateau
Summit Area	Open rock with multiple viewpoints
Exposure	Significant—steep drops nearby

The staircase gives way to natural rocky terrain as you approach the summit plateau. Multiple viewpoints offer different angles on the famous vista below.

The View: What Makes Reinebringen Legendary

Understanding the Panorama

The Reinebringen viewpoint offers a composition that seems almost impossibly perfect—as if nature designed this mountain specifically to photograph the village below.

Primary Elements:

Feature	Description
Reine Village	Red rorbu cabins spread across peninsula
Hamnøy	Connected village with iconic bridge
Sakrisøy	Yellow cabins on nearby islet
Reinefjorden	Turquoise waters below
Olstinden (675 m)	Dramatic pointed peak to the left
Navaren (609 m)	Mountain ridge to the right
Norwegian Sea	Endless water stretching west

Why This View Works

Photography experts note that Reinebringen succeeds because it combines multiple elements that rarely align:

1. Elevated perspective: High enough to see patterns, close enough for detail
2. Leading lines: Bridge, shoreline, and mountains guide the eye
3. Color contrast: Red/yellow cabins against blue water and green peaks
4. Layered depth: Foreground, midground, and background clearly separated
5. Natural frame: Mountains create boundaries without feeling constrained

Photography Guide: Capturing the Perfect Shot

Optimal Lighting Conditions

Time Period	Light Quality	Crowds	Best For
3-6 AM	Soft sunrise, pink tones	Very low	Solitude, soft light
6-10 AM	Morning light, warming	Low-moderate	General photography
10 AM - 6 PM	Harsh overhead	High (peak)	Avoid if possible
6-10 PM	Evening golden light	Moderate	Warm tones
10 PM - 1 AM (June-July)	Midnight sun, golden	Low	Best overall conditions

Camera Settings Recommendations

Scenario	Aperture	Shutter	ISO	Notes
Standard daylight	f/8-11	Auto	100-400	Sharp throughout
Low light/blue hour	f/4-5.6	1/60+ or tripod	800-3200	Tripod recommended
Northern Lights + village	f/2.8	10-20 sec	1600-6400	Tripod essential
Fast-moving clouds	f/8	1/250+	400-800	Freeze cloud motion
Long exposure effects	f/11-16	30+ sec	100	ND filter required

Essential Gear for Photography

Priority	Item	Purpose
Essential	Wide-angle lens (16-35mm)	Capture full panorama
Essential	Tripod (lightweight)	Low light stability
Highly Recommended	ND filters	Long exposures
Highly Recommended	Polarizing filter	Reduce glare, enhance colors
Useful	Telephoto (70-200mm)	Detail shots of village
Useful	Remote shutter release	Eliminate camera shake

Composition Techniques

Classic Compositions:

1. Standard panoramic: Full village with mountain frame
2. Vertical/portrait: Emphasizing depth for social media
3. Foreground interest: Include summit rocks for depth
4. Human scale: Include hiker for size reference
5. Reflection focus: When water is calm below

Insider Tip: The summit has multiple viewpoints—don’t just shoot from the obvious main spot. Explore 50-100 meters in each direction for unique angles most photographers miss.

Official Trail Information

When to Hike: Seasonal Analysis

Monthly Conditions Guide

Month	Trail Conditions	Temperature	Daylight	Crowds	Rating
May (late)	Snow possible above	5-12°C	20-24 hrs	Low	Good
June	Clear, excellent	8-15°C	24 hrs (midnight sun)	Moderate-High	Excellent
July	Optimal conditions	10-18°C	24 hrs (midnight sun)	Very High	Excellent
August	Excellent	10-16°C	18-20 hrs	High	Excellent
September	Good, autumn colors	6-12°C	12-16 hrs	Moderate	Very Good
October	Variable, cold possible	2-8°C	8-12 hrs	Low	Fair

Midnight Sun Strategy (Late May - Mid July)

The midnight sun period transforms Reinebringen into a 24-hour destination, offering unique advantages:

Benefits:

• Summit at midnight with golden light
• Far fewer hikers (most stay in bed)
• Magical, surreal atmosphere
• Best photography conditions
• Calmer weather often (less daytime heating)

Practical Considerations:

• Still need sunscreen (sun is low but present)
• Bring warm layers (nighttime temperatures drop)
• Sleep schedule disruption is real
• Headlamp not needed for hiking

Recommended Schedule:

Time	Activity
10:00 PM	Depart trailhead
11:30 PM - 12:30 AM	Summit time, photography
12:30 AM	Begin descent
2:00 AM	Return to accommodation

Avoiding Crowds: Practical Strategies

With Lofoten’s growing popularity, Reinebringen summit can feel crowded during peak hours. Effective strategies:

Strategy	Effectiveness	Trade-off
Midnight sun hike (10 PM - 2 AM)	Excellent	Unusual schedule
Early morning (5-7 AM)	Very Good	Early wake-up
Weekday vs weekend	Good	May not fit schedule
September visit	Good	Shorter daylight
Poor weather forecast	Moderate	Risk of bad conditions

Getting There: Transportation Guide

Finding the Trailhead

Location: Along E10 (King Olav’s Road), between Reine and Sakrisøy villages

GPS Coordinates: 67.9367°N, 13.0764°E

By Car (Recommended)

Route	Distance	Time	Notes
From Reine	2 km	3 min	Most common
From Leknes	40 km	45 min	After airport
From Svolvær	120 km	2.5 hrs	Full Lofoten drive

Parking:

• Informal roadside pull-offs along E10
• No fee
• Capacity: ~30-40 vehicles
• Fills completely by 9-10 AM in peak summer
• Don’t block driveways or emergency access

Insider Tip: If parking is full, continue to Reine village (2 km), park there, and walk back to trailhead along E10. The 30-minute road walk adds to your hike but guarantees a spot.

By Bus

Route	Operator	Frequency
Leknes-Reine	Nordland Fylkestrafikk	3-5 daily
Svolvær-Reine	Nordland Fylkestrafikk	Limited

Get off at Reine and walk 2 km to trailhead (30 minutes). Check schedules at 177nordland.no.

Without a Car

Reinebringen is accessible without a car but requires planning:

• Bus to Reine + walking to trailhead
• Taxi from Leknes (expensive)
• Organized tour (includes transport)
• Bicycle from accommodation

What to Bring: Complete Packing List

Essential Gear

Item	Importance	Notes
Hiking boots	Critical	Ankle support, good grip essential
Water (1-2 L)	Critical	No water sources on trail
Rain jacket	Essential	Weather changes rapidly
Warm layer	Essential	Summit exposed, wind
Snacks	Important	Energy for sustained climb
Sunscreen	Important	Arctic sun intense
Sunglasses	Important	Glare from water below
Camera	Optional	This is THE photo opportunity

Recommended Additions

• Trekking poles (especially for descent)
• Hat (sun or warmth depending on conditions)
• Windproof layer
• Small backpack (20-30 L)
• Charged phone
• Cash (for café in Reine after)

What NOT to Bring

Item	Reason
Heavy camera equipment	Unless serious photographer—weight matters
Cotton clothing	Gets cold when wet from sweat
Sandals/flip-flops	Absolutely inappropriate for this terrain
Laptop/unnecessary tech	Adds weight with no benefit
Large backpack	Unnecessary—this is a day hike

Safety: Comprehensive Guidelines

Trail Safety

Essential Do’s:

• Use ONLY the marked Sherpa trail
• Maintain steady pace—rushing causes accidents
• Stay back from summit cliff edges
• Turn back if weather deteriorates
• Supervise children constantly
• Tell someone your hiking plan

Critical Don’ts:

• Never use the old, closed trail
• Don’t rush the descent (knee injuries common)
• Avoid hiking in severe weather conditions
• Don’t approach cliff edges for photos
• Never underestimate the physical demands

Weather Awareness

Lofoten weather is notoriously changeable. Before hiking:

1. Check Yr.no (Norwegian Meteorological Institute)
2. Look at the mountain from below
3. Watch for incoming weather from the west
4. Understand that conditions can change within an hour

Hazardous Conditions:

Condition	Risk	Action
Heavy rain	Slippery steps	Postpone or extreme caution
Strong wind	Dangerous at exposed summit	Postpone
Fog/low visibility	Navigation difficulty, cliff edges	Postpone
Thunder/lightning	Extremely dangerous	Descend immediately
Snow/ice	Trail becomes impassable	Don’t attempt

Physical Fitness Requirements

Honest Assessment:

Reinebringen requires:

• Cardiovascular fitness for 45-60 minutes sustained climbing
• Leg strength for 1,500+ steps
• Knee stability for demanding descent
• Comfort with exposed heights (summit area)

Self-Assessment Question: Can you comfortably climb 100 floors of stairs without stopping? That’s roughly the equivalent of Reinebringen.

If Unfit:

• Train 2-4 weeks before attempting
• Practice on stairs with a weighted pack
• Consider easier Lofoten hikes first (Kvalvika Beach)
• Don’t be embarrassed to turn back if struggling

Emergency Information

Service	Number	Notes
Emergency (all)	112	Police, fire, ambulance
Medical emergency	113	Direct ambulance
Trail rescue	Norwegian Red Cross	Via 112
Nearest hospital	Gravdal	45 minutes drive
Mobile coverage	Generally good	Can be patchy at trailhead

Guided Lofoten Tours

The Hike Experience: Section-by-Section Guide

Section 1: Approach (0-10 minutes)

From roadside parking, cross the small footbridge over the stream and follow the obvious gravel path toward the mountain. Signage at the trailhead confirms you’re in the right place. Use this short section to adjust your pack and settle into hiking mode.

Section 2: Lower Staircase (10-50 minutes)

The climb begins immediately and without mercy. Stone steps interspersed with rocky terrain ascend steeply. This section offers the most variety—some larger boulder scrambles break up the staircase pattern.

Technique Tips:

• Find a sustainable rhythm immediately
• Place your full foot on each step (not just toes)
• Use your glutes and quads together
• Rest when needed—no shame in stopping
• Stay right to allow faster hikers to pass

Section 3: Main Staircase (50 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes)

The heart of the climb follows meticulously constructed stone steps. The consistency makes rhythm easier to maintain, but the unrelenting gradient becomes wearing.

Key Milestones:

• First significant viewpoint opens at ~200m elevation
• Halfway mark where gradient briefly eases (slightly)
• Final push where summit becomes visible

Section 4: Summit (1 hour 30 minutes - 2+ hours)

The staircase gives way to rocky plateau. Multiple viewpoints offer different perspectives on the famous panorama below. Explore the area—don’t just shoot from the first obvious spot.

Summit Etiquette:

• Share prime viewpoint positions
• Don’t monopolize space for extended photo sessions
• Keep voices down—others having meaningful experiences
• Take your photos, then make room for others
• Watch children near exposed edges

Descent (30-60 minutes)

Descending requires different muscles and presents different challenges:

• Knees absorb significant impact
• Steps feel higher going down
• Fatigue increases fall risk
• Take your time—rushing causes injuries

Insider Tip: Trekking poles significantly reduce knee strain on descent. If you have them, use them. Some hikers bring poles specifically for the down climb.

Combining with Other Activities

Before Your Hike

Reine Village Exploration:

• Traditional rorbu architecture
• Working fishing harbor
• Galleries and craft shops
• Cafés for pre-hike breakfast

After Your Hike

Recovery and Reward:

• Coffee and cinnamon buns at Bringen Café
• Explore Hamnøy’s iconic bridge viewpoint
• Visit Å at the end of E10
• Kayaking to see the village from water level

Nearby Hikes

Hike	Distance	Duration	Difficulty	Highlight
Ryten	9 km	4-5 hrs	Moderate-Hard	Kvalvika Beach views
Kvalvika Beach	5 km	2-3 hrs	Moderate	Stunning beach
Munken	Variable	4-6 hrs	Hard	Technical scrambling
Helvetestinden	8 km	5-6 hrs	Hard	Highest local peak

Practical Information Summary

Costs

Item	Cost (NOK)	Notes
Trail access	Free	No fees
Parking	Free	Informal roadside
Coffee (Reine)	40-60	Post-hike reward
Lunch (Reine)	150-250	Café options
Rorbu (per night)	1,500-4,000	Accommodation in area

Facilities

At Trailhead: None—no toilets, water, or services

In Reine (2 km):

• Public toilets at harbor
• Cafés and restaurants
• Small grocery shop
• ATM (can run empty)

Best Practices Summary

• Check weather at Yr.no before departing
• Use facilities in Reine before starting
• Bring minimum 1L water per person
• Carry rain layer regardless of forecast
• Tell someone your hiking plan
• Start early or late to avoid crowds
• Take your time—this isn’t a race
• Respect other hikers at summit
• Leave no trace

Final Thoughts: Why Reinebringen Matters

Reinebringen delivers exactly what it promises—one of Norway’s most spectacular viewpoints earned through honest physical effort. The rebuilt Sherpa staircase has transformed a dangerous, eroding trail into a sustainable path that will serve generations of hikers. Standing on that summit, gazing down at Reine village surrounded by Lofoten’s impossible peaks and turquoise waters, you understand instantly why this vista has become legendary.

Yes, the 1,500+ steps are genuinely demanding. Yes, it can feel crowded during peak summer hours. Yes, the perfect photograph requires patience, luck, and likely multiple attempts. But when conditions align—when golden midnight sun light bathes the landscape, when the fjord lies still as glass reflecting the mountains, when you share the summit with only a handful of others—Reinebringen delivers one of those rare travel moments that genuinely lives up to its reputation.

Time your visit wisely. Train if needed. Respect the mountain and your fellow hikers. And when you reach that summit, take a moment before reaching for your camera to simply absorb where you are—above the Arctic Circle, atop a staircase built by Himalayan craftsmen, overlooking a fishing village that has endured for centuries.

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

Comparing Reinebringen to Other Norwegian Iconic Hikes

Reinebringen vs. Preikestolen

Aspect	Reinebringen	Preikestolen
Distance	5 km round trip	8 km round trip
Elevation Gain	400m	334-500m
Time Required	2.5 hours	4-5 hours
Difficulty	Challenging (steep)	Moderate
Steps	1,978 Sherpa steps	Natural rock
Iconic Feature	Lofoten village view	Fjord cliff platform
Region	Arctic Norway (Lofoten)	Western Norway (Stavanger)
Annual Visitors	~150,000+	300,000+

Recommendation: Reinebringen is shorter but steeper and more intense. Preikestolen offers a longer, more varied journey. Both deliver world-class views.

Reinebringen vs. Trolltunga

Aspect	Reinebringen	Trolltunga
Distance	5 km round trip	20-28 km round trip
Elevation Gain	400m	320-1,317m
Time Required	2.5 hours	7-12 hours
Difficulty	Challenging	Demanding
Altitude	448m	1,100m
Type	Sherpa staircase	Rocky mountain trail
Region	Lofoten	Hardangerfjord

Recommendation: Reinebringen offers a world-class view with much less time commitment. Trolltunga is an all-day expedition for experienced hikers.

Winter Hiking Prohibition

Detailed Weather Considerations for Lofoten

Understanding Arctic Coastal Climate

Lofoten’s position above the Arctic Circle (67 degrees N) creates unique weather patterns. The Gulf Stream moderates temperatures, but conditions can change rapidly.

Monthly Weather at Reinebringen:

Month	Temperature	Daylight	Precipitation	Conditions
May (late)	5-12C	20-24 hrs	Moderate	Season opening
June	8-15C	24 hrs (midnight sun)	Low-Moderate	Excellent
July	10-18C	24 hrs (midnight sun)	Lowest	Best conditions
August	10-16C	18-20 hrs	Increasing	Very good
September	6-12C	12-16 hrs	Moderate-High	Variable
October	2-8C	8-12 hrs	High	Late season

Weather Hazards:

1. Rain: Stone steps become slippery. Exercise extreme caution on descent.
2. Wind: Exposed summit experiences strong gusts. Dangerous at edges.
3. Fog: Reduces visibility. Stay on trail; avoid cliff edges.
4. Rapid Changes: Arctic weather shifts quickly. Bring layers regardless of forecast.

Weather Resources:

• Yr.no - Norwegian Meteorological Institute (most accurate)
• Check Reine/Moskenes forecast specifically
• Monitor wind speeds—above 15 m/s is dangerous at summit

Complete Equipment Checklist

Essential Gear

Item	Why Essential
Hiking Boots	Grip on stone steps, ankle support
Water 1-2L	No water on trail
Rain Jacket	Weather changes rapidly
Warm Layer	Summit exposed, cooler
Snacks	Energy for steep climb
Camera	THE Lofoten photo opportunity
Charged Phone	Emergency contact, photos

Recommended Additions

Item	Purpose
Trekking Poles	Significant help on descent, reduce knee strain
Sunscreen	Arctic sun intense (24-hour daylight)
Sunglasses	Glare from water below
Hat	Sun or warmth depending on conditions
Windproof Layer	Summit exposed to wind
Small Backpack	Carry essentials hands-free

What NOT to Bring

• Sandals/Flip-flops: Absolutely dangerous on stone steps
• Cotton clothing: Becomes cold when wet
• Heavy camera gear: Unless serious photographer—you’ll carry it 1,978 steps up and down

Midnight Sun Photography Guide

Reinebringen during midnight sun (late May to mid-July) offers one of Norway’s most magical photography experiences.

Midnight Sun Facts for Lofoten

Period	Dates (approximate)	Sun Behavior
Polar Day Begins	May 28	Sun doesn’t set
Peak Midnight Sun	June 21	Sun highest at midnight
Polar Day Ends	July 14	Sun begins setting again
Best Photo Hours	10 PM - 2 AM	Golden light, minimal crowds

Midnight Sun Photography Strategy

Recommended Schedule:

Time	Activity
9:00 PM	Arrive at trailhead
9:15 PM	Begin ascent
10:30-11:00 PM	Reach summit
11:00 PM - 1:00 AM	Photography during golden hour
1:00 AM	Begin descent
2:00-2:30 AM	Return to car

Why This Works:

• Golden light bathes landscape
• Crowds are minimal (most people sleep)
• Temperature cooler for comfortable hiking
• Surreal, magical atmosphere
• Best photos possible

Camera Settings for Midnight Sun:

Scenario	Aperture	Shutter	ISO
Golden hour landscape	f/8-11	1/60-1/125	200-400
Low light village	f/4-5.6	1/30-1/60	800-1600
Long exposure	f/11-16	1-10 sec	100
Silhouettes	f/8	1/125+	200

Transportation and Access

Getting to Lofoten

By Air:

• Nearest airports: Leknes (LKN) or Svolvaer (SVJ)
• Flights from Oslo, Bodo, Tromso
• Rental car recommended from airport

By Car from Bodo:

• Ferry: Bodo to Moskenes (4 hours)
• Scenic crossing through Vestfjorden
• Book in advance during summer

By Car via E10:

• Drive from mainland via bridges and tunnels
• Scenic route through entire island chain
• ~170 km from Svolvaer to Reine

Finding the Trailhead

GPS Coordinates: 67 degrees 55’20.4”N, 13 degrees 04’42.1”E

Location: Along E10 between Reine and Sakrisoy villages

Parking:

• Informal roadside pull-offs
• Free (no fees)
• Limited capacity (30-40 vehicles)
• Fills by 9-10 AM in peak summer
• Don’t block driveways or emergency access

Alternative Parking:

• If full, park in Reine village (2 km away)
• Walk 30 minutes along E10 to trailhead
• Guaranteed parking but adds to journey

Nearby Accommodation in Lofoten

Reine Area (Closest)

Traditional Rorbu Cabins:

Property	Price Range (NOK)	Features
Eliassen Rorbuer	1,500-3,500	Historic, waterfront
Reine Rorbuer	2,000-4,000	Premium location
Sakrisoy Rorbuer	1,500-3,000	Yellow cabins, iconic

Hotels and Guesthouses:

• Limited hotel options in Reine
• Better selection in Leknes (40 km)
• Book well ahead for summer

Budget Options

Type	Price Range (NOK)	Notes
Hostels	400-800	Available in Leknes, Svolvaer
Camping	200-500	Several campgrounds in area
Airbnb	800-2,000	Good selection throughout Lofoten

Booking Strategy

• Peak summer (June-August): Book 2-4 months ahead
• Rorbu cabins: Often fully booked year in advance
• Shoulder season: 2-4 weeks usually sufficient

Practical Cost Summary

Item	Cost (NOK)	Cost (USD)
Trail access	Free	Free
Parking	Free	Free
Coffee (Reine)	40-60	$4-6
Lunch (Reine)	150-300	$14-28
Rorbu cabin (per night)	1,500-4,000	$140-375
Hotel (Leknes)	1,000-2,000	$95-190
Rental car (per day)	500-1,000	$47-95
Ferry (Bodo-Moskenes)	400-800	$37-75

Emergency Information

Service	Number	Notes
Emergency (all)	112	Police, fire, ambulance
Medical emergency	113	Ambulance
Mountain rescue	Via 112	State “Reinebringen, Lofoten”
Nearest hospital	Gravdal	45 minutes drive

Mobile Coverage: Generally good at trailhead and summit. Can be patchy in some areas. Download offline maps before hiking.

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

Combining Reinebringen with Other Lofoten Hikes

Popular Lofoten Hiking Combinations

Hike	Distance	Time	Difficulty	Highlight
Reinebringen	5 km	2.5 hrs	Challenging	Village view
Ryten	9 km	4-5 hrs	Moderate-Hard	Kvalvika Beach view
Kvalvika Beach	5 km	2-3 hrs	Moderate	Stunning beach
Munken	Variable	4-6 hrs	Hard	Technical scrambling
Helvetestinden	8 km	5-6 hrs	Hard	Highest local peak

Sample Lofoten Itineraries

Three-Day Active Itinerary:

Day	Activity	Notes
1	Arrive, Kvalvika Beach hike	Easier warm-up
2	Reinebringen (midnight sun or early AM)	Main event
3	Explore Reine, A village, depart	Cultural day

Five-Day Lofoten Experience:

Day	Activity
1	Arrive, explore Svolvaer
2	Reinebringen hike
3	Ryten and Kvalvika Beach
4	Drive to A, fishing village museum
5	Departure or additional hiking

Final Thoughts

Reinebringen delivers exactly what it promises—one of the world’s most spectacular viewpoints earned through honest physical effort. The 1,978 Sherpa steps represent not just a trail but a remarkable engineering achievement that has transformed a dangerous erosion gully into a sustainable path serving generations of hikers.

The view from the summit—Reine village spreading across its peninsula, surrounded by turquoise Arctic waters and dramatic granite peaks—is genuinely world-class. It has graced countless magazine covers, travel documentaries, and social media feeds for good reason.

But Reinebringen demands respect. The climb is genuinely demanding—1,978 steps gaining 400 meters with no respite. Time your visit wisely. Respect the winter closure. Check the weather. And when you reach that summit, take a moment before reaching for your camera to simply absorb where you are—above the Arctic Circle, atop a staircase built by Himalayan craftsmen, overlooking a fishing village that has endured for centuries.

For the midnight sun experience, there is nothing quite like standing on Reinebringen at midnight with golden light bathing the landscape and the summit nearly to yourself. This is Norway at its most magical.

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

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This comprehensive guide draws from Visit Norway, Lofoten Tourism, and the Norwegian Meteorological Institute (Yr.no). June 2024 saw 41,000 visitors to Reinebringen. The Sherpa staircase consists of 1,978 steps gaining 400m elevation over 5km round trip. Winter hiking is PROHIBITED. Trail conditions change—always verify current status before hiking. GPS coordinates for trailhead: 67 degrees 55’20.4”N, 13 degrees 04’42.1”E. Last updated January 2026.