The best walks and hikes in Norway
4.5
(11327)
77,118
hikers
13,794
hikes
Hiking in Norway offers diverse landscapes, from dramatic fjords carved by glaciers to towering mountains and lush valleys. The country features a varied terrain of rugged peaks, deep inlets, and unique rock formations. Glaciers and waterfalls are prominent features, providing a dynamic environment for outdoor exploration. This geography creates a wide range of hiking experiences, from coastal paths to high-altitude mountain trails.
Best hiking trails in Norway
- The most popular hiking route is Preikestolen Roundtrip, a 5.1 miles (8.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 20 minutes to complete. This difficult route leads to the iconic Pulpit Rock, offering views over Lysefjord.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Up to Briksdalsbreen glacier, an easy 3.8 miles (6.0 km) path. This trail provides access to the Briksdalsbreen glacier, a popular arm of the Jostedalsbreen ice cap.
- Local hikers also love the Husedalen Valley Trail, a 9.5 miles (15.2 km) trail leading through a valley with multiple waterfalls, often completed in about 5 hours 9 minutes.
- Hiking in Norway is defined by majestic fjords, rugged mountains, and impressive glaciers. The extensive network of trails offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks.
- The routes in Norway are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 72,000 reviews. More than 400,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Norway's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
4.8
(4558)
26,213
hikers
8.27km
03:20
370m
370m
Hike the difficult 5.1-mile Preikestolen Roundtrip to Pulpit Rock, gaining 1199 feet for stunning Lysefjord views.
4.8
(1067)
6,964
hikers
6.05km
01:52
230m
230m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(769)
5,718
hikers
5.74km
03:12
420m
420m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.9
(699)
3,716
hikers
4.80km
02:07
310m
320m
Hike the challenging 3.0-mile Buarbreen Trail in Folgefonna National Park to reach the impressive Buarbreen Glacier, gaining 1023 feet.
4.8
(521)
2,281
hikers
15.2km
05:09
690m
690m
Hike the difficult 9.5-mile Husedalen trail in Kinsarvik, Hardanger, to experience four powerful waterfalls and stunning valley views.
4.9
(299)
2,720
hikers
14.5km
07:16
1,110m
1,110m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(379)
1,949
hikers
10.8km
03:17
320m
320m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(218)
837
hikers
9.68km
04:43
610m
610m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(386)
1,785
hikers
13.2km
04:36
580m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(426)
1,820
hikers
6.03km
02:05
320m
320m
Hike the Himakånå Trail, a moderate 3.7-mile route offering expansive views over Lysevatnet lake and the Nedstrandsfjord.
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Other adventures in Norway
Tips from the Community
The view of the lakes, from the ridge, is incredible so be sure to allow plenty of time for breaks. It's a demanding hike so you definitely need to be sure-footed. If you hike the entire ridge, hopefully you'll find a place to stay overnight in Mermurubu.
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Iconic peak of the Lofoten Islands
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Nykkjesøyfossen is the third of Husedalen's four major waterfalls. With a drop of around 60 meters (197 ft), it's a glorious sight, cascading down its rocky ledge.
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end point of a beautiful walk
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The waterfall is easily accessible via a gravel road.
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The Tveitafossen has a flow rate of 10 000 liters/sec. It's incredible. It is the first of four waterfalls on this hike, so be sure to keep going. Wear good shoes and pack a picnic.
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More Information
Fjord focus
World famous for the breathtaking beauty of its many fjords, one glance at the numbers hints at an almost endless possibility for walks in Norway. It has Europe’s longest coastline at 15,626 miles (25,148 km); in Hornindalsvatnet it boasts Europe’s deepest lake at 1,686 feet (514 m) and Sognefjord, the ‘King of Fjords’ is the world’s longest, stretching 127 miles (205 km) inland. As if to underline its supreme landscapes, there are no fewer than 46 national parks dotted throughout the country.
As impressive as these numbers are, it’s the scenery on offer here that has the heart soaring. Many of the best hikes in Norway are found in the south west, where some of the most astonishing fjords and unforgettable sights are found. Iconic places and awesome situations abound, such as picture-postcard Trolltunga, a platform of rock suspended 2,297 feet (700 m) above Ringedalsvatnet Lake.
Islands of the midnight sun
Some of the most surreal hikes in Norway take place with the low midnight sun casting ethereal rays across the landscape. Rising monstrously from the Norwegian Sea, the Lofoten Islands offer unbelievably dramatic scenery, especially during these bewitched hours.
Seven of Norway’s many national parks are found on the rugged and remote island of Svalbard, far north in the Arctic Circle. This wondrous land of glaciers, tundra and bristling mountain ranges is one of the last strongholds of the polar bear.
When to hit the trails
Spring sees the start of the hiking season, as melting snow spawns crashing waterfalls and flowers bloom. On the high trails, there are plenty of cabins and lodges for affordable and convenient accommodation. Some offer merely the bare necessities, whilst others boast modern Scandi architecture and lavish surroundings.
Always be prepared for bad weather, even if the forecast promises wall-to-wall sunshine. Fronts coming in off the Atlantic and the changeability that goes hand in hand with mountain environments mean that blue skies can vanish remarkably quickly. Winter is the best time to see the northern lights, whilst the sight of snow-capped peaks towering above the fjords is magical. However, the high trails become the realm of mountaineers with appropriate skills and equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Norway?
Norway offers an extensive network of hiking trails, with over 13,000 routes available on komoot. These range from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks, catering to all skill levels.
Are there easy hikes suitable for beginners or families in Norway?
Yes, Norway has nearly 6,000 easy hiking routes. A great option for families or beginners is the Up to Briksdalsbreen glacier trail, an easy 6 km path that provides access to the impressive Briksdalsbreen glacier.
Where can I find hikes with impressive waterfalls in Norway?
Norway is renowned for its waterfalls, especially powerful in late spring and early summer due to melting snow. The Husedalen Valley Trail is a fantastic option, leading through a valley with multiple cascading waterfalls. You can also find the impressive Vøringsfossen Waterfall in the region.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Norway?
Many trails in Norway offer circular options. For instance, the Preikestolen Roundtrip is a popular 8.3 km loop leading to the iconic Pulpit Rock. In the Lofoten Islands, the Ryten and Kvalvika Beach hike is a moderate circular route combining mountain views with a white-sanded beach.
What are some challenging high-altitude hikes in Norway?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Norway offers several high-altitude treks. The Kjeragbolten Roundtrip is a difficult 9.7 km route to the famous boulder wedged between cliffs above the Lysefjord. Other notable challenging hikes include Trolltunga and the Besseggen Ridge in Jotunheimen National Park.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Norway?
The hiking trails in Norway are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 72,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the dramatic fjords, rugged mountains, and impressive glaciers, as well as the extensive network of well-marked trails.
Are there good hiking opportunities near Bergen?
Yes, Bergen is surrounded by excellent hiking terrain. A popular route is Across the plateau from Fløyen to Ulriken in Bergen, a moderate 13.2 km trail offering stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Can I find hikes that lead to glaciers in Norway?
Absolutely. Norway is home to numerous glaciers, and several hikes provide access to them. Besides the easy Up to Briksdalsbreen glacier route, you can also explore the To the Bondhusbreen glacier trail, a difficult 10.8 km hike offering close-up views of this impressive ice formation.
What are some unique natural landmarks to see while hiking in Norway?
Beyond the famous Pulpit Rock and Kjeragbolten, Norway boasts many unique natural landmarks. The Himakånå Trail leads to a distinctive rock formation often called 'Little Trolltunga'. You can also explore the coastal formations and caves along the Brufjell & Brufjellhålene route.
Are there any hikes in Norway that offer views of the iconic fjords?
Many hikes in Norway provide spectacular fjord views. The Preikestolen Roundtrip offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Lysefjord. The Molden Hike in Sogn also delivers 360-degree vistas of turquoise waters and surrounding fjords. The Lofoten Islands and Geirangerfjord also feature numerous trails with stunning fjord backdrops.
What is the best time of year to hike in Norway?
The best time to hike in Norway, especially in the fjords and mountains, is typically from late spring (May/June) to early autumn (September). During this period, the weather is milder, trails are generally snow-free, and waterfalls are at their most powerful. Summer (July/August) offers the longest daylight hours.
Are there any hidden gem hikes or less crowded trails in Norway?
While famous trails like Trolltunga and Preikestolen can be busy, Norway has countless less-traveled paths. Exploring national parks like Rondane, Norway's first national park, can offer a more peaceful escape with high mountains and lakes. The island of Senja also provides stunning, less crowded landscapes for nature photographers and explorers.
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