The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Hesten Naturreservat

Hesten Naturreservat offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 80 routes in total. For families, you'll find 22 easy trails and 40 moderate trails, providing plenty of options suitable for different ages and abilities.

The trails in Hesten Naturreservat offer varied terrain. You can expect sections traversing through forests, crossing small streams, and leading into rocky fields. While some paths are relatively easy, others, especially closer to the Hesten summit, can become steeper and rockier, potentially involving some scrambling. Waterproof footwear is highly recommended due to potentially wet conditions.

Yes, there are several circular routes that families can enjoy. One option is the Hesten Summit – Lakeside Rest Area loop from Erlandsdalen, which offers a moderate challenge with rewarding views. Another is the Lakeside Rest Area – Hesten Summit loop from Forsand, providing a slightly longer but equally scenic experience.

The primary draw of Hesten is the unparalleled panoramic views, most notably of the striking Segla mountain. From many trails, you can witness Segla's iconic shark-fin peak and the dramatic drop into the Mefjorden. The Seggelskaret ridge, located between Hesten and Segla, also provides spectacular views of Segla and the majestic cliffs. You'll also see vistas extending to Mefjorden to the west and encompassing Inste Kongen Mountain and Korkedalen Valley to the north.

The best time for family hiking in Hesten Naturreservat is generally during the warmer months when trails are more accessible. While winter hiking is possible, it is significantly more challenging and dangerous, requiring specialized gear. For comfortable conditions and the best views, aim for late spring, summer, or early autumn. Be prepared for potentially windy conditions at higher elevations regardless of the season.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather, it's wise to pack layers of clothing, including warm and windproof options, especially for the summit. Waterproof footwear is highly recommended. Don't forget water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and sun protection. For families, consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

While the region research for Hesten Naturreservat doesn't specifically highlight waterfalls along the main family-friendly trails to Hesten, the general landscape includes streams. If you're looking for a route that features a waterfall, the Preikestolen Camping – Jørpelandsåna Waterfall loop from Jøssang is a moderate option that includes a waterfall, though it is located outside the immediate Hesten area.

While the Hesten summit trails involve rocky sections and scrambling, making them unsuitable for strollers, there are easier sections and forest paths that might be more accessible for families with young children. For stroller-friendly options, it's best to look for designated accessible paths or wider forest roads, which may be found in the lower elevations of the reserve or nearby areas.

The komoot community highly rates Hesten Naturreservat, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 7,100 ratings. Reviewers consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views, especially of Segla, and the dramatic natural landscapes. Many highlight the rewarding experience of reaching viewpoints that offer such spectacular scenery for a relatively manageable hike.

The main trail to Hesten can be popular, especially during peak season. For a potentially less crowded experience, consider exploring some of the 22 easy trails available in the reserve that might not lead directly to the most iconic viewpoints. These often offer a quieter experience through forests and along streams, still providing a wonderful outdoor adventure for families.