Hiking in Norway: your complete guide
Majestic fjords, rugged mountains, Arctic wilderness: Hiking in Norway is one of the best ways to experience the country's dramatic landscapes. And it’s the ultimate way to live like a Norwegian.
Deeply rooted in friluftsliv – our word for connecting with nature – hiking is more than just an activity here; it's a way of life.
Whether you're seeking gentle coastal walks, challenging mountain ascents or multi-day treks, Norway offers trails to suit every experience level. All hikes in Norway are graded by difficulty: there’s Green (easy), Blue (medium), Red (demanding) and Black (expert), making it easy to find the right hike for you.
Sailing with Hurtigruten gives you unmatched access to hiking in Norway. Go hiking at the beginning or end of the trip, turning your holiday into a longer adventure. Or join a hiking excursion and discover Norway's spectacular landscapes with expert local guides.
From the polar wilds of Svalbard to the towering peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps, unforgettable hiking experiences await around every corner of the coast.
When is the best time to go hiking in Norway?
The best time to hike in Norway depends on the type of adventure you're looking for. Every season offers something unique.
Spring (Mar-May)
As the snow begins to melt, lower-altitude trails come back to life with wildflowers, waterfalls and fresh greenery. Spring is an excellent time for hiking in southern Norway and around the fjords, particularly during weekdays when trails are often quieter. Higher mountain routes may still be snow-covered, so it's important to check conditions before setting out.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Summer is peak hiking season in Norway, for Norwegians and visitors alike! Most mountain trails are accessible, temperatures are mild, and the famous Midnight Sun allows for extended hiking days. In places such as Lofoten, Tromsø and Finnmark, it’s possible to hike late into the evening without losing daylight.
Autumn (Sep-Oct)
Autumn brings crisp air, changing landscapes and fewer visitors. The once-green fjords and valleys turn shades of gold, orange and red, making this a fantastic time for nature photography while hiking. October is also the start of the Northern Lights season, especially in the far north, meaning you can go walking by day and aurora chasing by night.
Winter (Nov-Feb)
Winter hiking can be extraordinarily rewarding, especially in the Arctic where snow-covered landscapes and Northern Lights skies create a magical atmosphere. However, winter adventures require suitable clothing, proper equipment, route planning and experience in snowy conditions. Always check weather forecasts and local guidance before setting out.
Types of hiking in Norway
Norway's dramatic geography means there are varied types of hiking. Before planning your trip, it's worth deciding what terrain interests you most.
Plateau hiking in Norway
Norway is home to some of Europe's most impressive mountain plateaus, including Hardangervidda, the largest on the continent, and Finnmarksvidda. Hardangervidda is a must-visit hiking destination showcasing rugged landscapes entirely above the treeline, while Finnmarksvidda features glacier-carved hills and pine and birch forests.
Plateau hiking is often less technically demanding than mountain hiking (depending on the route), making it a great option for those seeking longer days on the trail without steep ascents.
Cabin-to-cabin hiking in Norway
Cabin-to-cabin is Norway’s answer to the famed hut-to-hut hiking of the Alps. The Norwegian Trekking Association maintains a network of more than 500 cabins across the country, allowing hikers to travel for several days while staying in simple mountain lodges along the route.
This style of hiking removes the need to carry a tent and offers a unique opportunity to explore remote areas while enjoying rustic accommodation. Popular cabin-to-cabin routes can be found throughout Jotunheimen, Hardangervidda, Rondane and other national parks.
Mountain hiking in Norway
Norway’s unique geology means that the country is filled with rugged peaks and impressive rock formations ideal for memorable hikes. There’s the iconic Lofotveggen, or Lofoten Wall, which rises dramatically from the sea and offers a variety of routes graded from easy to challenging. Or visit Svolværgeita, the famous Svolvær Goat, named for its two spires that evoke the horns of a goat – with panoramic views across the Lofoten Islands.
Torghatten, with its remarkable natural rock tunnel and well-marked trail, attracts hikers from around the world, while the Seven Sisters mountain range offers challenging routes for experienced walkers. Hestmannen, another legendary peak, is the place for sweeping coastal views for those willing to tackle the ascent.
Alpine hiking in Norway
Alpine hiking takes mountain adventures to the next level. These routes often involve steep terrain, exposed ridges and the use of specialist equipment such as ropes, crampons and ice axes. Areas including the Sunnmøre Alps and parts of Jotunheimen offer opportunities for experienced climbers and mountaineers to challenge themselves among Norway's highest and most dramatic peaks. These hikes should only be attempted by suitably skilled hikers or with qualified guides.
Glacier hiking in Norway
There are more than 1,500 glaciers across Norway, some only reachable by foot on specialist guided hikes. In Svalbard, Longyearbreen glacier holds 60-million-year-old fossils embedded in ancient gravel beds. Glacier hikes here provide a fascinating glimpse into the archipelago's geological history.
Further south, Svartisen glacier is the lowest-lying glacier on the European mainland and is surrounded by peaks that rise more than 1,500 metres above sea level. On a guided tour, you can walk across the glacier’s famous dark ice.
Practical hiking tips
Before setting off, keep these essential guidelines in mind:
Stay on marked trails whenever possible to avoid getting lost.
Leave No Trace: take all rubbish with you and leave nature as you found it or better.
Treat wildlife with respect and maintain a safe distance.
Carry sufficient food, water and safety essentials (such as a headlamp and first aid supplies), even on shorter hikes.
Dress in layers and prepare for changing weather conditions.
Make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving and bring a battery pack for longer hikes.
Consider carrying GPS navigation or emergency communication equipment on remote routes.
Check weather conditions regularly, particularly in mountain environments.
If in doubt, adhere to the Norwegian Mountain Code.
Packing list for hiking in Norway
Packing the right equipment can make all the difference.
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Moisture-wicking base layers
Warm mid-layer or fleece
Hiking backpack
Sturdy hiking boots
Water bottle(s) or water pack and enough water for the duration of your hike
High-energy snacks and meals for overnight hikes
Mobile phone
Portable battery pack
Torch or headlamp
Map or GPS device
Sunglasses and sunscreen
First-aid supplies
Hiking excursions with Hurtigruten
To explore some of Norway’s most iconic hiking destinations with no logistical issues, join one of our guided excursions and learn from local experts.
Svalbard Hike and Fossil Hunt
Journey across Arctic terrain towards Longyearbreen glacier while searching for fossils dating back over 60 million years. This guided hike combines incredible scenery with fascinating geological discoveries.
Duration: 3 hrs
Mountain Hike in Hammerfest
Explore the dramatic Arctic landscape above mainland Norway’s northernmost town. An expert guide leads the way through mountain terrain, revealing the stories and scenery that make this region unique.
Duration: 1hr 30 min
Mountain Hike in Hjørundfjord
Hike far above the spectacular Hjørundfjord and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Sunnmøre Alps. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of fjords, peaks and remote valleys.
Duration: 2 hrs 45 min
Hike with a Visit to a Shieling
Discover one of the most scenic valleys in the Hjørundfjord region on this guided walk that combines beautiful scenery with local heritage. Walk along the fjord before visiting a traditional Norwegian summer farm.
Duration: 2 hrs 45 min
Hiking in Urke Valley
Hike through the Urke river valley in the Hjørundfjord region on this guided walk along gravel paths. Soak up views of the Sunnmøre Alps and learn about local history before enjoying lunch at the Urke Port House.
Duration: 3 hrs 10 min
Hike to Torghatten Mountain
Follow the trail to the famous hole through Torghatten Mountain and enjoy panoramic views over the Helgeland archipelago. Your guide will bring local legends and Norse folklore to life along the way.
Duration: 2 hrs
FAQs: Hiking in Norway
Pack layers, waterproof clothing and suitable footwear. For safety and navigation, bring a phone, battery pack and navigation tools. And don’t forget sufficient food and water, as well as a sweet treat for the summit!
Not necessarily. Norway offers routes for every ability level, from easy forest walks and city hikes to demanding mountain and glacier expeditions. If you’re unsure, our guided hikes ensure you’re alongside an experienced guide.
Norway uses a four-level, colour-coded trail system to grade hiking difficulty:
Green (Easy): Flat, short walks on even paths.
Blue (Medium): Rougher terrain for average fitness.
Red (Demanding): Steep, challenging mountain hikes for experienced trekkers.
Black (Expert): Exposed, alpine terrain requiring scrambling skills.
For our guided excursions, we grade activities from easy to challenging, with moderate and active options.
Yes. Oslo is surrounded by forests and marked trails, making it one of the easiest places in Norway to enjoy a day hike using public transport.
The ‘Big 3’ in Norway comprises of Trolltunga, Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) and Kjeragbolten, all located in Western Norway near the cities of Stavanger and Odda. Many Hurtigruten voyages begin and end in Bergen, our closest port to these iconic hikes. So, if you want to attempt the ‘Big 3’, it’s best to add a few days to the start or end of your trip to travel and hike.
Explore more highlights on the Norwegian coast
The North Cape
Neverending sea views and a world-famous monument, this dramatic plateau is one of Norway’s top coastal highlights.
The Helgeland Coast
Stretching across the Arctic Circle from Rørvik up to Ørnes, the Helgeland Coast is often singled out as one of the most enjoyable parts of a Norwegian cruise.
Vesterålen
Wild and striking, Vesterålen is where towering peaks meet open skies and fishing villages cling to the coast. It's also one of Norway's premier whale-watching destinations.