NORWAY

World → Europe → Norway

One of the best hiking regions in the world is
Norway

As a hiking destination, Norway is as astonishing: steep-sided fjords; jagged coastlines; snowy mountains; otherworldly coastal islands; bleak Arctic landscapes.

AT A GLANCE

• • Norway is expensive. Very expensive.
  • we love allemannsretten (pronounced ALL-eh-mahns-ret-en), Norway’s Freedom to Roam law:

Anyone 164 yards from an inhabited dwelling can camp there for up to two days. Free.

• well marked trails
• superb tourist infrastructure
• network of 500+ hiking cabins run by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT in Norwegian) available at reasonable cost
• great hiking for all levels of ability
• best weather July-Sept. Some lower hikes are advised May-June, as well.

• the Lofoten archipelago is fantastic. Famed Reinebringen, for example.

• easy to get into wilderness
• very little crime
• hiking in Norway is excellent, but comparatively few foreigners will be found on all but the most famous day hikes
• the Outtt app – hikes in Norway offline with premium membership

CONSIDERATIONS

• some of the most popular trails are crowded high season
• accommodation may be full
• rain, rain, rain
• in fact, be prepared for all weather every day of the year. That includes snow.
• keep a dry set if clothing, including footwear, in a waterproof bag
• travel in Norway is expensive. Everything is expensive aside from hiking and tenting.
• getting to the trailhead can be challenging and expensive, but there are many domestic flights, rent-a-car locations, trains and buses. Bicycle is your best inexpensive transportation.  Auto or motorbike the most convenient.
• many areas have no mobile phone service

See our Norway BEST HIKES on our Europe page.