The best walks and hikes around Folldal

Folldal offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy valley walks to challenging multi-day treks in alpine environments. You'll find tranquil paths through rounded hills in the south and steep, high mountain peaks in the north, especially towards Rondane National Park. The region features trails along river systems, to waterfalls, and across vast, lichen-covered plateaus.

Yes, Folldal has several easy trails perfect for families. A great option is the Grimsa Wooden Bridge – Upper Fallfossen Bridge loop from Fallet, which is an easy 5.3 km (3.3 miles) path leading through the Grimsa River valley to the picturesque Fallfossen waterfall. This route is often completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes and is suitable for a relaxed family outing.

The region is rich in natural beauty. The Grimsa Wooden Bridge – Upper Fallfossen Bridge loop from Fallet takes you directly to Fallfossen waterfall. For more dramatic views, trails within Rondane National Park often lead to panoramic vistas over the mountains and wild lakes. You can also explore highlights like the Bridge over the Langglupbekken or the Upper Fallfossen Bridge.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the region offers demanding routes, particularly within Rondane National Park. A difficult option is the Bridge over the Langglupbekken – Myldingi Nature Reserve loop from Atnsjømyrene naturreservat, an 18 km (11.2 miles) trail with significant elevation gain, typically taking almost 6 hours to complete. These trails often lead to high mountain peaks and offer a true alpine experience.

Yes, many trails in Folldal are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Gammelsætra Cabins loop from Atnsjømyrene naturreservat is a popular moderate 13.8 km (8.6 miles) circular hike that takes about 4 hours, traversing varied terrain near the nature reserve.

The best time for hiking in Folldal is typically during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is milder, and trails are free of snow. This period offers the most accessible conditions for exploring both the lower valleys and the higher alpine areas of Rondane National Park. Autumn also provides stunning scenery with vibrant fall colors.

Beyond natural landscapes, the region offers glimpses into its cultural heritage. The Einundalen Valley, Norway's longest seter (mountain farm) valley, showcases traditional rural life. The historic Folldal Mine, now a museum, provides cultural context and panoramic views. You can also find structures like the quaint 19th-century stone Gamle Grimsa Bru (Old Grimsa Bridge) along hiking paths.

The hiking trails in Folldal are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 250 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from tranquil valleys to challenging mountain paths, and the stunning natural beauty, particularly the proximity to Rondane National Park and the scenic Grimsa River.

Yes, for more ambitious hikers, marked trails often lead to DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) mountain huts. For instance, you can find the DNT Rondvassbu within Rondane National Park, or the DNT Bjørnhollia. These huts provide accommodation and a base for multi-day treks.

Folldal and its surrounding national parks are home to diverse wildlife. Within Rondane National Park, you have a good chance of spotting wild reindeer, with an estimated 2,000–4,000 animals in the area. Moose and fox can also be encountered. Keep an eye out for various bird species as well, especially above the treeline.

There are over 25 hiking trails available around Folldal, catering to various skill levels. This includes 10 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every hiker.

Yes, many moderate trails provide excellent views. The Start of Strømburunden Trail – Sæterhaugen loop from Megrunnslia is a popular moderate 9.0 km (5.6 miles) path that offers views of the surrounding hills and takes approximately 2 hours 26 minutes, making it a great option for a rewarding day hike.