The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Mørkridsdalen Landskapsvernområde

Mørkridsdalen Landskapsvernområde offers over 30 hiking trails, including 12 easy routes and 15 moderate routes, making it an excellent destination for families with varying experience levels.

For an easy and scenic loop, consider the Storetjørni Lake loop from Hyrnavollen. This 6 km trail takes about 2 hours and offers beautiful views around the lake.

Yes, the area is famous for its waterfalls! You can experience the impressive Drivandefossen Waterfall on several routes. While some are longer, even getting close to the powerful falls is a memorable experience for families.

Beyond the stunning waterfalls like Drivandefossen, families can explore beautiful mountain lakes such as Storetjørni Lake and Åsetevatnet. There are also traditional mountain pastures and viewpoints offering expansive vistas of the valley and the Hurrungane peaks.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in Mørkridsdalen Landskapsvernområde. However, it's always important to keep them on a leash, especially during lambing season or when near grazing animals, and to follow local regulations to protect wildlife and livestock.

The best time for family hiking in Mørkridsdalen Landskapsvernområde is typically during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is milder, trails are clear of snow, and the natural beauty of the glacier-fed river and lush landscapes is at its peak.

Parking is generally available at the starting points of many popular trails, such as near Hyrnavollen or Mørkri. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot.

For families with older children looking for a moderate challenge, the Dulsete Mountain Pasture loop from Hyrnavollen is a great option. This 10.3 km trail takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes, exploring varied scenery and traditional mountain pastures.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 230 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse and dramatic natural features, the well-maintained trails, and the breathtaking views of waterfalls and mountain landscapes.

While public transport options might be limited directly to all trailheads, the main village of Skjolden, near the entrance to Mørkridsdalen, can be accessed by bus. From there, local transport or a short drive would be needed to reach specific starting points.

Many trails offer fantastic viewpoints. For example, from higher elevations, you can enjoy fine views over Mørkridsdalen and the majestic Hurrungane peaks. The View into the valley highlight is a popular spot to take in the scenery.