Jotunheimen National Park, often called the ‘Home of the Giants’, is a hiker’s paradise tucked away in the heart of Norway. This haven makes part of the country’s most alpine areas with rigged peaks and deep valleys. It is a protected wilderness area boasting towering mountains, ancient glaciers, and emerald-green valleys. Moreover, it proudly showcases its dramatic and awe-inspiring landscapes, the most beautiful in Scandinavia.
Jotunheimen’s hiking trails promise adventure, serenity, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Norwegian wilderness. It does not matter if you’re trekking to the summit of Galdhopiggen, Norway’s highest peak, or simply hiking the rugged trails along shimmering glacial lakes; hiking in Jotunheimen National Park will blow you away either way!
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The Best Time for Hiking in Jotunheimen National Park
The best time for hiking in Jotunheimen National Park is from mid-July to the end of August. This is because, during mid-summer, temperatures are at their warmest, making it ideal for hiking and various outdoor activities. Plus, there are also longer days during these times. Yes, daylight hours are extended, giving you more time to hike in this magnificent wilderness area.
This period also favours safer climbing conditions, especially if you choose to climb Goldhopiggen and Glittertind. Also, from July to August the alpine meadows explode with vibrant Wildflowers, which draws millions of hikers every year. But lastly, this time marks a few months of convenience as well. Many mountain lodges, referred to as DNT huts, and cabins that cater to hikers open for the summer season. Because of this, it’s easier to plan multi-day hikes and treks with reliable shelter and supplies.
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Most Popular Route for Hiking in Jotunheimen National Park
Besseggen Ridge is arguably the most popular route for hiking in Jotuheimen National Park. With its breathtaking views over dramatic lakes such as Gjende Lake and Bessvatnet Lake, and panoramic mountain scenery, it is evident that nature has prepared its most breathtaking façade simply for our amazement.
Also, Besseggen Ridge is the most popular route for hiking because of its iconic status. Let me explain. It is iconic because it has been featured in many magazines, travel guides, TV shows and articles as a must-do hike for locals and tourists. It seems to hold a special place in Norwegian outdoor culture.
However, it also profoundly impacts Norwegian folklore and history, as it has been referred to across various Norwegian literature works and the famous play Peer Gynt by Heinrich Ibsen. If it can inspire artists, it can inspire all! Moreover, the Besseggen Hike is moderate in difficulty, not overly technical, and features a thrilling ridge walk that adds to the trail’s excitement. It is the perfect day hike, typically taking 6-8 hours to complete.
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Knutshoe Loop for Hiking in Jotumheimen National Park
This 12.7-kilometre loop trail is near Beitostolen, Innlandel, and is known as Besseggen’s tough little brother. It’s a fantastic hike stretching along the mountain ridge, offering breathtaking views. This trail is a calmer alternative to Besseggen, taking you over diverse terrain and a gorgeous, lush landscape.
You’ll get fantastic views of Besseggen and the surrounding area through the trek. The trail starts with a steep stretch that requires some climbing, though easy, then continues on an excellent, vibrant path to the final higher section before the top.
If you select the circular route, the trail winds up along the green Leirungsdalen valley, passing the lovely Lake Ovre Leirungen and its excellent sandy beaches. While there is a nice trail throughout, it is only intermittently designated. Therefore, appropriate shoes are advised for optimal grip. To prevent disrupting golden eagles nesting at Knutshoe throughout the spring and summer, it’s best to visit after July 1.
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Something of Everything: Hiking in Jotunheimen National Park
This trail moves through Gjendesheim, Besseggen, and Bessheim. It is a 15-kilometre point-to-point trail that commences in Gjendesheim and takes you over the infamous Besseggen Ridge, where spectacular views await to blow you away.
A walk on Besseggen provides an iconic vista highlighted by the colourful lakes Gjendevatneet and Bessvatnet. The emerald-green Lake Gjende is extraordinarily long and narrow, truly something to behold. Bessvatnet has a deep blue colour and is one of Norway’s purest lakes. There is an elevation gain of 952 metres and can take an entire day to complete.
Hiking on the Besseggen ridge is strenuous. In wet conditions, the route becomes difficult. So, be sure to check the weather forecast and chat with locals and other hikers before you go. This is the most challenging way compared to the easy walk by boat from Gjendesheim to Memurubu. Dogs are, unfortunately, not allowed, and it is recommended to wear warm clothing and avoid sneakers.
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Ovre Leirungen for Hiking in Jotunheimen National Park
This out-and-back, 12.6-kilometre trail has been described as an incredibly idyllic trail for hiking in Jotunheimen National Park. The trail has many beautiful highlights of natural beauty that are sure to sketch itself into your long-term memory.
Although the Ovre hike is more on the lengthy side, it’s mostly in open and clear terrain. Essentially, the trail is super easy to follow, and with the various spots along the way to enhance the trail, you’ll be done with the 12 kilometres in no time.
Some of the highlights to look forward to include a majestic fjord, the lush valley of Leirungsdalen, the mighty mountains and finally, the river basin. There is a slight elevation gain of 265 metres, and it takes about 3 hours to complete. However, although the trail is relatively straightforward and, it is incredibly muddy during certain stretches. Also, this trail is dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash.
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If you enjoy this article, be sure to read about the top ski resorts in Norway.
Thinking of Hiking in Jotunheimen National Park?
Hiking in Jotunheimen National Park offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Norway’s wild and untouched beauty. If you’re looking for a challenging route or a peaceful promenade in nature, chances are that a route will tickle your fancy.
From ice-blue and turquoise glacial lakes to towering peaks, the park’s trails provide a journey into a landscape that is both timeless and awe-inspiring. Norway truly is a hiker’s paradise; hopefully, this article provides you with the tools for a happy hiking experience in Norway. So, if so, happy hiking!
