Norway is often considered one of the most scenic countries in the world, and rightfully so. From towering, snow-capped peaks to deep fjords that stretch far into the distance, Norway offers a feast for the eyes at every turn. Hiking here is a way to truly immerse yourself in the landscape, from the iconic trails that attract thousands of visitors to hidden gems that offer a sense of solitude and adventure. Whether you are an experienced hiker or someone who is just getting started, Norway has something for everyone. Some hikes are short, easy-going strolls with breathtaking views, while others are intense, multi-hour treks through rugged terrain. Regardless of your experience level, the sense of accomplishment and the scenery you’ll encounter along the way will make every step worth it. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your map (or GPS), and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Here are 10 of the best hiking trails in Norway that every adventurer should experience.
1. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
Location: Lysefjord
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 4-5 hours round trip
At the top of many hikers’ bucket lists, Preikestolen, often called Pulpit Rock is one of the most famous trails in Norway. Its allure lies in the flat-topped cliff that juts out dramatically over the Lysefjord below. The hike itself is relatively short by Norway's standards, covering only about 4 kilometers, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. There are some steep sections that will get your heart racing, especially near the top. The final stretch rewards you with one of the most iconic views in the country, making it worth every step. Visitors from all over the world come to experience this stunning panorama. Because it’s such a popular hike, it's best to start early, particularly during the peak tourist season, to avoid the crowds that swarm the trail later in the day. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn when the trail is dry and the weather is more stable. However, if you’re lucky enough to visit in the quieter months, you might find yourself alone on the rock, which is an experience that truly makes the hike feel magical.
2. Trolltunga
Location: Odda, Hardangerfjord
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 10-12 hours round trip
Trolltunga, which translates to "Troll's Tongue," is an iconic rock formation that seems to defy gravity as it stretches out over a dramatic drop. This hike is no easy feat. Spanning 27 kilometers, it is long, strenuous, and requires a certain level of fitness and stamina. If you're ready for a serious challenge, this hike delivers some of the most jaw-dropping views in Norway. The trail takes you through some of the most pristine and wild landscapes imaginable, including views of Hardangerfjord, glaciers, and vast valleys. But be prepared for long hours on the trail. The trek takes about 10 to 12 hours to complete, so make sure to pace yourself and bring plenty of water and snacks. While summer is the most popular time to visit, be mindful of weather conditions as the terrain can be tricky, and it’s easy to get caught off guard by the weather even in the warmer months. So, if you’re planning to tackle Trolltunga, make sure you're physically prepared, have a good map or GPS, and take your time to soak in the otherworldly views. The hike to Trolltunga is not for the faint of heart, but it’s undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
3. Romsdalseggen Ridge
Location: Åndalsnes, Romsdal
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Duration: 7-8 hours
Romsdalseggen Ridge is one of Norway’s more underrated gems. It offers a bit of everything from mountain views, fjord panoramas to dramatic cliffs. The hike begins in the town of Åndalsnes, and the ridge gradually ascends, offering increasingly stunning views as you go. The terrain is varied, ranging from relatively easy sections to more challenging steep ascents, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the scenery along the way. One of the most impressive aspects of this hike is the view of the Trollveggen cliff, the tallest vertical rock face in Europe. The combination of fjord views and jagged mountain peaks makes this hike one of the most visually rewarding in Norway. The trail typically takes 7-8 hours to complete, so it’s a full-day adventure. Even though the hike can be tough in parts, it’s well worth the effort when you reach the top. If you’re a seasoned hiker looking for something a bit off the beaten path, Romsdalseggen should definitely be on your list.
4. Galdhøpiggen
Location: Jotunheimen National Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 5-6 hours
As the highest peak in Norway, Galdhøpiggen towers at an impressive 2,469 meters above sea level. For those seeking to conquer the country’s highest point, this hike is the ultimate challenge. While it’s not the most difficult of Norway’s high-altitude hikes, it still requires a reasonable level of fitness, especially since the summit offers such a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. There are two main routes to reach the top, one from Spiterstulen and the other via Juvasshytta Glacier. Both routes provide access to the summit, and either one offers stunning vistas along the way. While the hike is moderately difficult, it’s accessible to fit beginners and intermediate hikers, making it a great way to experience Norway's wild beauty without needing expert mountaineering skills. At the summit, the views are absolutely worth the effort. You can see other towering peaks of the Jotunheimen mountains stretching across the horizon, making this a must-do for any hiking enthusiast.
5. Kjerag
Location: Lysefjord
Difficulty: Hard
Duration: 6-8 hours round trip
Kjerag is a hike that’s famous for its daring Kjeragbolten boulder, a massive stone wedged between two cliffs high above the Lysefjord. If you're looking for a photo-op to impress your friends back home, standing on this boulder (carefully, of course) is a must-do. But this hike isn’t just about the boulder, it's about the journey to get there. The trail to Kjerag is challenging, covering around 12 kilometers with steep climbs and sections where scrambling is necessary. The views along the way are spectacular, offering up some of the most dramatic fjord vistas you can imagine. The final reward is the chance to stand atop one of the most unique natural formations in Norway, with nothing but vast cliffs and fjords surrounding you. For those seeking an extra thrill, Kjerag is a popular spot for paragliding, adding an element of adventure that few places in the world can match. Just be sure you're prepared for the tough hike, as the trail can be grueling, but it’s the kind of challenge that’s totally worth it.
6. Aurlandsdalen Valley
Location: Aurland, Sogn og Fjordane
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6-8 hours
Often called one of the most beautiful hikes in Norway, Aurlandsdalen is a valley that captures the essence of Norway’s natural beauty. This trail winds through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, over wildflower meadows, and alongside the deep blue Aurlandsfjord. The variety of landscapes you encounter on this hike is one of its defining features. The trail can be moderate in difficulty, but it's doable for most hikers. While there are some steeper sections, the overall vibe is more relaxed, making it a great option for a day-long adventure that offers a bit of everything. Along the way, you’ll encounter some small farms and traditional Norwegian wooden buildings, adding a cultural aspect to the experience. If you’re a nature lover, the mix of alpine meadows, lush greenery, and distant fjord views will leave you in awe. Aurlandsdalen is also less crowded than some of the more famous hikes in Norway, which adds an element of tranquility to the experience.
7. Besseggen Ridge
Location: Jotunheimen National Park
Difficulty: Hard
Duration: 6-8 hours
Besseggen Ridge is another classic Norwegian hike that offers a combination of rugged terrain, panoramic views, and the chance to stand atop one of the country’s most famous ridges. The trail follows a narrow ridge that provides awe-inspiring views of the turquoise Lake Gjende below, contrasted with the dark, jagged peaks of the surrounding mountains. While the hike itself is challenging and requires some stamina, the payoff is incredible. The views are unlike anything else, and the sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit is unmatched. Besseggen is best done in the late summer when the weather is most stable, but it's also possible to hike it during the spring and fall, though weather conditions can be more unpredictable. The hike is popular among experienced hikers, and though it’s physically demanding, it remains one of the most rewarding in all of Norway.
8. Himmeltinden
Credits: Visit Norway
Location: Lofoten Islands
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 5-6 hours
If you're visiting the Lofoten Islands and looking for a hike that offers both challenging terrain and stunning coastal views, Himmeltinden is a perfect choice. While the hike may not be as grueling as some of the others on this list, it still presents a challenge with its steep ascent. Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. The Lofoten Islands are known for their rugged beauty, and hiking Himmeltinden provides a unique perspective of this incredible landscape. The Lofoten region is famous for its picture-perfect fishing villages, and from the top of Himmeltinden, you can see the traditional red cabins dotted along the shores, framed by towering peaks. It’s the kind of hike that gives you both a sense of achievement and a feeling of serenity when you take in the views from the top.
9. Rondane National Park
Location: Østerdal, Eastern Norway
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Duration: 4-8 hours
Rondane National Park is one of Norway’s oldest national parks, known for its pristine alpine landscapes and dramatic mountain vistas. With several peaks to conquer, the park offers hikes that vary in difficulty, making it an excellent destination for both novice and experienced hikers. The trails here lead through valleys, across glacial rivers, and up to breathtaking summits, providing hikers with diverse views of Norway's natural beauty. Rondane is ideal if you're looking for a more secluded hike, as it tends to attract fewer visitors compared to some of the more popular routes. Whether you choose to hike a shorter trail through the valleys or tackle one of the summits, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring scenery at every turn. Rondane is perfect for those seeking a tranquil hike in a place where nature is still wild and untamed.
10. Senja – The Northern Lights and Fjords Hike
Location: Senja Island, Troms og Finnmark
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: Varies by trail
Senja Island, often referred to as the "Norwegian Riviera," is a place of contrasts. Here, you'll find everything from rugged mountain peaks to serene fjords, with wild coastal landscapes that take your breath away. The island offers several scenic hikes that vary in difficulty, making it a great destination for hikers of all levels. One of the most striking features of Senja is the opportunity to experience the Northern Lights in the winter, making it a perfect year-round hiking destination. The Ånderdalen National Park is a popular hiking spot, offering varied terrain and stunning views of the island’s famous peaks. For those who love the idea of hiking under the Northern Lights, Senja is the place to be. Its peaceful, remote atmosphere also makes it an ideal location for those looking for solitude amidst nature.
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Norway is a hiker's dream, offering trails that range from iconic mountain ridges to secluded valleys and coastal gems. Whether you’re after an adrenaline-pumping challenge or a serene walk through Norway’s untouched nature, there’s a trail for everyone. Each of these hikes presents its own unique set of challenges and rewards, but one thing is for sure: the beauty of the Norwegian landscape will leave you awestruck at every turn. So, pick a trail, pack your bag, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. The mountains are calling, and it’s time to answer.