Ah! Magic Norway, the land of the midnight sun. What a breathtaking country filled with so many wonders for you to explore. From its medieval castles to spectacular mountains and fantastic architecture, you will never have a dull moment in Norway, because the country will always find a way to pew-pew! (blow your mind). There are many wellness activities to do in Norway but none is as popular and as sought after as hiking.
With over 40 national parks, tall mountains, and a coastline stretching thousands of kilometres, it comes with little surprise that hiking is one of the central components of the Norwegian lifestyle. But what if you have just travelled to Norway and have no clue which hiking trail to choose? Fear not, dear reader, I’ve got you covered. After analysing numerous review websites and dozens of hiking trails, these are the 5 best ones to pursue if you want to witness the magic of Norway.
1. Galdhøpiggen in Lom
Do you want to climb Norway’s tallest mountain? Well, then you will have to conquer Galdhøpiggen. Not only is it the tallest mountain in Norway, but it is also the tallest in northern Europe, so you will have to bring your A-game.
You have many hiking trails at your disposal when seeking to surmount Galdhøpiggen. Some trails are strenuous and you might need to have a guide. The slightly easier options are those that will require you to cross a couple of glaciers. But do not worry, you will not fall into the freezing water.
Accommodation in Lom – Booking.com
If you are planning to go on this hike with your child, then it is important to note that the child should be at least 7 years of age to cross the glaciers. If you are in Norway then grab your coat, and hiking gear, and go tackle Galdhøpiggen. Are you a hiking enthusiast outside of Norway? Don’t you think it’s time to climb the highest mountain in Northern Europe?
Fun fact: in 1950, Steinar Sulheim became the first person to summit Galdhøpiggen. He was 35 years old.
2. Reinebringen in Lofoten
If you are new to hiking then this trail should be your first pick. Hikes to and from Reinebringen are short and fairly moderate in difficulty. However, what Reinebringen lacks in height is compensated for by the vivid views of the surrounding nature. That is a win-win setup if you ask me.
Some of the beautiful archaeological wonders that you will see when climbing the Reinebringen include the Lofoten Wall. It’s a natural collection of stone contortions that emerged from the Arctic’s blue waters.
Accommodation in Lofoten – Booking.com
Reinebringen is very popular and highly sought-after in the district of Lofoten. This is because of its magnificent views and short hiking trails. The mountain is also a desirable place for fishing and meditation. Why not even practice the Wim Hof Method here before, during, or after your hike to enhance your wellness experience? It’s best to visit Reinebringen between May and December to avoid the rainy season because the trail gets slippery when it’s wet.
(Not so) fun fact: there are no dogs allowed on Reinebringen trails, dog lovers will have to leave their best friends at home.
3. Kjerag and Kjeragbolten in Rogaland
Kjerag has to be the most daring and breathtaking hiking trail known to mankind. Just the thought of laying a foot on the Kjeragbolten boulder makes my body shiver. This trail is definitely for the pros so you might want to sit this one out until you have enough hiking experience.
If you’ve ever wanted to do something crazy, this is your chance. The hike gets muddy, steep, and extreme. It typically takes a full day to complete the hike and newbies are recommended to get a guide to ensure success.
Hotels in Rogaland – Booking.com
The Kjerag involves three ridges, an 800-meter elevation gain and some regions that require slipping and sliding with cables. This trail is not for the faint of heart. Fortunately, you don’t have to cross the Kjeragbolten boulder while standing on your feet. Crawling is an option if you are not comfortable.
Fun fact: Kjeragbolten is a highly popular attraction for mountain climbers, jumpers and stunt performers. Eskil Rønningsbakken performed one of the most memorable stunts ever by doing a bike drop on the Kjeragbolten boulder. Absolutely insane!
4. Trolltunga in Vestland
Trolltunga is one of the most loved hiking trails in Norway. This marvellous mountain has been ranked number one on many user review sites such as AllTrails – where it was ranked number one and scored an average rating of 96% from over 650 hikers.
Trolltunga’s impressive user reviews are the least of its attractive features. What makes the trail a sight to see is its tongue-like edge which is projected at 1180 meters above the beautiful Lake Ringedalsvatnet.
To surmount Trolltunga, you will need to be in tip-top shape and have the right gear. This goes without saying for most hiking trips. So, before you face the troll’s tongue, make sure you wear some warm clothes, strap on some decent boots, and bring a bivouac in case it rains or the temperature becomes too cold. Food, water, sunglasses, headlamps, and first aid kits are also essential to have a great hiking experience.
Accommodation in Vestland – Booking.com
Trolltunga is a very difficult and demanding trail but the ‘top of the world’ feeling that you will get when you reach the top will make it all worth it.
Fun fact: Trolltunga means “troll’s tongue” in English. This is because of its tongue-like peak. What a beauty and beast!
5. Preikestolen in Rogaland
Ta-dah! Drum roll, please. And the number one hiking trail to explore in Norway goes to…Preikestolen! Throughout all the consulted sources, Preikestolen was the only hiking trail to be ranked number one more than once. Preikestolen was ranked number one in four sources, including Forbes’ list of the 7 most famous Norwegian hiking trails.
You should visit this mountain if the opportunity to do so arises. If Lysefjord’s blue waters won’t woo you then the finger-like granite rock will captivate you. Just be sure not to tread too close to the edge because, if you fall, your chances of survival will be super slim.
Preikestolen hiking trails have a medium level of difficulty but do not take them lightly. Reaching the top of this mountain will not be a walk in the park. The trails are scattered with many untidy boulders which you might have to tackle in windy, boggy, and steep conditions. However, it will all be worth it when you reach the top and descend with a heightened sense of wellness. With over 300,000 people visiting the trails every year, Preikestolen has become a perfect destination to meet new like-minded people.
Fun fact: although Preikestolen was already highly popular, its popularity reached global acclaim after being used for a scene in Mission: Impossible – Fallout.
Getting the Right Hiking Gear
Now that you have learned all about the top 5 hiking trails in magic Norway, here is a summarised list of hiking gear and items that you will need to have a smooth hike in the land of the midnight sun.
- Good hiking shoes
- Warm clothes
- Portable camping equipment
- Headlamps
- Food
- Water
- First aid kit
If you are not yet ready to go hiking in Norway and are looking for something a bit more exotic and relaxing, why not explore the 7 top cities that you can visit in Brazil? There is a wealth of wellness activities that you can do while there. Have a wonderful time!
