Hiking in the world heritage area
Experience the spectacular and unique natural and cultural landscape in the area around Aurland and Flåm. The sight of steep mountains, narrow fjords, mighty waterfalls, and lush valleys gives you an experience you will never forget. Below, we have listed some popular hikes in the area!
aurlandsdalen valley
Experience the best of the Norwegian natural and cultural landscape. The hike through the spectacular Aurlandsdalen Valley, often called Norway's Grand Canyon, will take your breath away.
The entire Aurlandsdalen hike, from Geiteryggen to Vassbygdi, is about 40 km long. The most popular and spectacular part of the trip stretches from Østerbø to Vassbygdi, about 20 km. The path takes you past valleys and gorges, down steep slopes, surrounded by high and jagged rock formations. You pass the old mountain farms Nesbø, Sinjarheim and Almen that are reminiscent of a bygone era. Make sure to stop at Vetlahelvete – the strange stone cauldron that surrounds a pond.
practical information
Time: Actual hiking time is between 6-8 hours.
Distance: Hike is a total of 20 km in length.
Height difference: from 820–70 m.a.s.l
How to get there: The trip starts at Østerbø Fjellstove (820 masl) and goes to Vassbygdi (70 masl). There is a bus round trip starting in Flåm in the morning, otherwise we recommend parking the car in Vassbygdi and take a bus / taxi to Østerbø before the trip starts.
Level of difficulty: red. These are longer hikes for experienced and trained hikers. The hike requires good hiking equipment. The hike go both along (marked) paths, in open terrain and on stones. Not recommended if you have knee or back issues.
We recommend combining the hike with our 2-nights stay package deal!
Brekkefossen Waterfall
Easily accessible with beautiful views of Flåm and the Aurlandsfjord!
On the hiking trip to Brekkefossen waterfall you will have a grand view of the fjord and into the valley. Start the walk from Flåm town centre on asphalt road up the valley alongside the Flåm river. After 1,5 km easy walk, continue up the mountain side to the Brekke Waterfall platform. The rocky and steep trail quickly gains elevation and soon the small city of Flåm is visible through the trees. After about 30 minutes uphill hiking, the trail opens up on a grassy ledge, offering beautiful views of the area.
practical information
TIme: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Distance: Hike is a total of 5 km in length (return from Flåm center)
Height difference: Ca. 155m
Suitable for everyone. Good shoes are recommended.
Hike with guide is available on request
Flåm valley
Start your adventure with the famous Flåm Railway. The train ride takes you 20 km up through the Flåm Valley, from sea level to 867m amsl. At Myrdal you start the hike and may enjoy the views and the numerous waterfalls as you follow the river back down the valley. We recommend stopping at Rallarrrosa goat-farm (open from mid-June to mid Sept). Here you can buy delicious local produce from the milk-maids and meet the goats. If you`re feeling adventurous, include the Flåm Zipline as part of your hike!
Alternative starting point can be Vatnahalsen or Blomheller, or you can make the hike shorter by taking the train from Berekvam to Flåm (half way down the valley).
practical information
Time: About 5 hours with a guide
Distance: Hike is a total of 18 km in length.
Height difference: Maximum altitude will be 866 meters. Downhill hike.
Suitable for everyone. Good shoes are recommended.
Hike with guide available on request
Prest (Røyrgrind cairn)
Panorama view of the Aurlandsfjord!
The hike starts near the famous Stegastein Viewpoint and follows a well trodden track that leads up the north edge of the mountain towards Mt. Prest. The hike is steep uphill, with considerably steep drops on the fjord side of the track. At around 1000m height, there is a steeper section where the track narrows to a path with loose stones. After passing this, you begin to be rewarded with even better views of the fjord. Also, the cairn at 1363mas. is visable above you. The path is wider and easier on the final stretch to the cairn. This part of the mountain is called Røyrgrind and this is where many choose to complete the hike. The cairn is an impressive size, and there is a little box with a notebook where you can leave a record of your visit. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, enjoy a Norwegian hiking treat and take your fjord view selfie before making your way back down the same way.
practical information
Time: Actual hiking time is approx. 4 hours t/r
Distance: 6,5 km hike
Height difference: Ca. 545m. up and down (highest point is 1457 masl.)
How to get there: Parking available in Kvammadalen, about 800masl. During summer there is also bus service from Flåm - click here for information.
Level of difficulty: red. These are longer hikes for experienced and trained hikers. The hike requires good hiking equipment. The hike go both along (marked) paths, in open terrain and on stones. Not recommended if you have knee or back issues.
Rimstigen
Panorama view of the UNESCO listed Nærøyfjord!
Rimstigen is an old trail that was used by farmers living along the Nærøyfjord when the only way to connect to nearby villages and cities was over the mountains. Rimstigen is the steepest trail in the area with a climb of 720 meters in just over 2km of trail. The hike is challenging and steep uphill, with high drops on the fjord side of the track. Enjoy fantastic views as you get to the top of Rimstigen, breath in the fresh air and make sure to take some pictures before returning the same way.
practical information
Time: Actual hiking time is approx. 4-5 hours t/r
Distance: 4,6 km hike t/r
Height difference: Ca. 720m. up and down (highest point is 720 masl.)
How to get there: Parking available in between Bakka and Tufto at about 2masl.
Level of difficulty: red. These are longer hikes for experienced and trained hikers. The hike requires good hiking equipment. The hike go both along (marked) paths, in open terrain and on stones. Not recommended if you have knee or back issues.
Hovdungo
View of the Aurlandfjord!
Follow the trail from Vikesland (460masl) to the old mountain farm Hovdungo. Hovdungo is situated 780 metres above the beautiful Aurlandsfjord, and you get to enjoy spectacular views of the fjord – and mountain landscape. The hike is medium challenging, however some parts of the trail is very steep. On top you get awarded with one of the best fjord views in the area, before making your way back on the same trail.
practical information
Time: Actual hiking time is approx. 3 hours t/r
Distance: 5,4 km hike
Height difference: Ca. 320m. up and down (highest point is 780 masl.)
How to get there: Parking available at Vikesland farm, about 460masl.
Level of difficulty: The hike is steep and requires medium fitness level. Not recommended if you have knee or back issues. Good shoes and outdoor clothing.
