10 of the Most Beautiful Day Hikes in Norway

Norway is renowned for its panoramic scenery. One of the most rewarding ways to experience it is by foot, where you feel a deep connection with nature.

Each of these 10 most beautiful hikes in Norway offers not only a unique experience but can be hiked in a day. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced hiker, you’ll find trails that let you enjoy the vast beauty of the Norwegian wilderness.

The re-assuring part? You won’t need to risk life and limb for a great experience.

These 10 beautiful Norwegian hikes range in difficulty from easy to demanding, so you can choose what suits you best. Shelley and I, avid seekers of great hikes, have road-tripped much of Norway to bring you these top 10 beautiful hikes.

Having lived in Skudeneshavn, Norway, over the years, we’ve been fortunate to visit the well-known attractions as well as many off the usual tourist route. This country’s landscapes never cease to amaze us, and it is no surprise that Norway continues to be such a popular destination for travellers.

Best Hikes in Norway Map

This detailed hiking in Norway map outlines information on each hike including parking, exact route and other important information.

Road Trips in Norway

All these hikes were completed during our series of road trips that we completed throughout Norway:

1. 🚗 Stavanger to Bergen Road Trip
2. 🚗 Bergen to Trondheim Road Trip
3. 🚗 Trondheim to Bodo Road Trip
4. 🚗 Lofoten Islands Road Trip

Most Beautiful Day Hikes in Norway – Our Top 10

Here are our favourite trails featuring our top 10 day hikes that exemplify why Norway is a premier destination for hikers.

1. Kjeragbolten Hike: Stavanger Region

🥾 Hiking Level: Demanding
📏 Distance: 11 km return
⏰ Time: 6 hours return
👣 Route Type: Out and Back
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 750m
😎 Season: Mid-May to October
🌆 Closest City:  Stavanger
🗺️ See Map Location

Kjeragbolten, one of Norway’s iconic hikes, culminates with panoramic views of a boulder 1000m above Lysefjord caught between two steep cliffs. For those who choose, you can step out onto the boulder.

The hike is rated as DEMANDING.

The challenging trail crosses rugged terrain with rapid ascents and descents, offering spectacular views of Lysebotn, rivers, mountain lakes, and lush valleys.

At the top of the mountain hiking trail, you can experience the thrill of standing on Kjeragbolten if you decide to do that.

Note: Walking out onto Kjeragbolten is not recommended if you have a fear of heights.

🔎 Explore more: You can read about my experience and what happened when I tried to face my fear when stepping onto Kjeragbolten here: Our Kjeragbolten Hike and Freezing on the Spot

2. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) Hike: Stavanger Region

🥾 Hiking Level: MODERATE
📏 Distance: 7.6 km return
⏰ Time: 4 to 5 hours return
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 350m
👣 Route Type: Out and Back
😎 Season: Year round
🌆 Closest City:  Stavanger
🗺️ See Map Location

Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock, is the most iconic of the Norwegian hikes and was famously featured in Tom Cruise’s film Mission Impossible.

The hike is rated as MODERATE.

Preikestolen is a very accessible hike from Stavanger. The hiking trail winds through forests and over boulders, featuring steps built by Sherpas and passes picturesque scenery all the way to the top.

Although less demanding than the Kjeragbolten hike, Preikestolen still challenges with some short, steep inclines. The views from Pulpit Rock of Lysefjorden far below are breathtaking.

If you’re undecided whether it’s worth visiting Preikestolen, our post below provides all the pros and cons.

🔎 READ MORE: Is Preikestolen Worth Visiting?

3. Himakana Hike: Nedstrand Region

🥾 Hiking Level: Moderate
📏 Distance: 5 km return
⏰ Time: 2 hours return
👣 Route Type: Out and Back
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 350m
😎 Season: Year Round
🌆 Closest City:  Stavanger
🗺️ See Map Location

Himakånå, often called the ‘mini Trolltunga,’ is a shorter, more accessible hike and an alternative to its famous counterpart. A round trip takes only 2 hours.

The hike is rated as MODERATE.

Despite being only 327 meters above sea level, the climb is steep most of the way, but this short hike is definitely manageable. It passes through diverse landscapes, culminating in breathtaking fjord views at its summit.

Much less crowded than Trolltunga, Himakana provides a quick, rewarding hike with ample photo opportunities. It is kid-friendly and, with a good gravel path, offers no real obstacles to the hiker.

🔎 READ MORE: Himakana Hike: Mini Trolltunga

4. Bondhusdalen Hike: Hardanger Region

🥾 Hiking Level: Easy
📏 Distance: 4.8 km return (carpark to the moraine base)
⏰ Time: 3.0 hours return
👣 Route Type: Out and Back
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 50m
😎 Season: Year Round
🌆 Closest City:  Bergen
🗺️ See Map Location

Located just past Odda, near Folgefonna National Park, the Bondhus Valley hike leads to scenic Bonhusvatnet (Lake Bondhus), where you can view the receding glacier, Bondhusbreen Glacier. A trail follows the shoreline to the moraine.

The hike is rated as EASY.

The trek starts on a gravel road and leads to the shore of Lake Bondhus and the start of gorgeous views. The landscape, framed by steep pine-clad mountains, imparts a profound sense of calm.

🔎 READ MORE: About why we loved the Bondhusvatnet Hike

5. Vindhellavegen Hike: Vestland Region

🥾 Hiking Level: Moderate
📏 Distance: 3.4 km return
⏰ Time: 2 hours
👣 Route Type: Out and Back or Loop
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 200m
😎 Season: May to November
🌆 Closest City: Bergen
🗺️ See Map Location

The Vindhellavegen is the most impressive and historic stretch of the larger 210 km long Kongevegen (King’s Road). Its many switchbacks were built to reduce the road’s steepness.

One of the best places to begin this hike is the Borgund stave church.  

The hike is rated as MODERATE.

Vindhellavegen extends the short distance between Husum and Borgund. To fully experience this magnificent feat of engineering, we recommend you return on the same route as we did.

Otherwise, once you reach Humus, you keep walking south and return on a loop to Borgund. Using this route, the total hike time is approximately 2 hours.

The drawcard is certainly the workmanship used in constructing the road in the late 1700s. Its many switchbacks make for a great photo opportunity.

It’s a relatively short walk on a solid surface and is especially popular with kids. The information boards along the way tell the story of the road’s construction phase, such as the spot under a rock overhang where the blacksmith set up his forge.

6. Dronningstien Hike: Vestland Region

🥾 Hiking Level: Demanding
📏 Distance: 16 km one way
⏰ Time: 8-9 hours one way
👣 Route Type: One Way
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1100m
😎 Season: June to September
🌆 Closest City: Bergen
🗺️ See Map Location

Dronningstien, also known as the Queen’s Panoramic Hiking Trail, is our favourite because of its breathtaking views, making it one of the most beautiful hikes in Norway.

This is rated as DEMANDING.

The trail skirts the edge of Hardangarvidda National Park, through the ‘Orchard of Norway’ in the Hardanger region, where fruit trees dot the landscape near picturesque villages by Sorfjorden.

Although the initial ascent is challenging, the trail soon levels out, offering easier walking along the vast, flat plateau. The stunning views of Hardanger Fjord are sure to distract from any muscle fatigue.

🔎 READ MORE on why we consider this our favourite: Dronningstien Hike 

7. Utsira Island Hiking: Rogaland Region

🥾 Hiking Level: Easy
📏 Distance: Optional – various routes
⏰ Time: Optional
👣 Route Type: Loop; Out and Back
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 50m
😎 Season: Year Round
🌆 Closest City: Haugesund
🗺️ See Map Location

Hiking on the Island of Utsira, just off the coast of western Norway, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. It is ideal for a full day or, even better, over a weekend.

Hiking is rated as Easy.

Known for its vibrant street art and as a bird watcher’s paradise, Utsira’s rugged, attractive coastline and steep climbs certainly reward the hiker. Although the island is compact— only 3km long by 3.5km wide—it’s packed with activities.

We recommend spending at least two days to fully appreciate everything from its street art to its natural landscapes.

For enthusiasts of nature, art, and outdoor activities like geocaching, Utsira seamlessly combines hiking with opportunities to enjoy its unique street art and rich natural environment.

🔎 Read More of our hiking exploits: Ultimate Guide to Utsira 

8. Ryten Hike: Lofoten Islands

🥾 Hiking Level: Easy/Moderate
📏 Distance: 4 km return
⏰ Time: 3-4 hours return trip
👣 Route Type: Out and Back
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 543m
😎 Season: Year Round (Winter using skies or snow-shoes)
🌆 Closest City: Svolvær
🗺️ See Map Location

The short Ryten hike in Lofoten rewards you with a stunning view of Kvalvika Beach and magnificent mountain vistas.

This hike is rated as Easy/Moderate.

The trail can be muddy and wet, but you’re soon distracted by the stunning panoramic views.

Near the top, there is the opportunity to capture the iconic shot from an overhanging rock with Kvalvika Beach in the background. You can descend to Kvalvika Beach at the halfway point of this hike.

🔎 Read More about our experiences: Ryten Lofoten Hike 

9. Dronningruta Hike: Vesterålen Islands

🥾 Hiking Level: Demanding
📏 Distance: 15 km
⏰ Time: 5-8 hours
👣 Route Type: Loop
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 448m
😎 Season: June to September
🌆 Closest City: Svolvaer
🗺️ See Map Location

The Dronningruta hike in Vesterålen, north of Lofoten, takes you across mountainsides and along the rugged coastline that looks out over the Atlantic Ocean.

The hike is named Dronningruta (The Queen’s Route) after Queen Sonja of Norway, who hiked the trail when she visited Vesterålen in 1994.

The Dronningruta hike between the fishing villages of Stø and Nyksund is a place to find solitude and enjoy the magical Arctic Circle scenery.

🔎 READ MORE on the remote Dronningruta Hike – The Queen’s Route 

10. Torghatten – Hole in the Mountain: Nordland Region

🥾 Hiking Level: Easy
📏 Distance: 2.7 km round trip
⏰ Time: 2.0 hours
👣 Route Type: Loop
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 249m
😎 Season: April to October
🌆 Closest City: Brønnøysund
🗺️ See Map Location

Torghatten, the “magic mountain” with a hole right through it, is a remarkable and unique sight in Norway. You can walk through the heart of this granite mountain.

The hike is rated as EASY.

As you traverse the path through Torghatten, you’ll encounter picturesque farmhouses and breathtaking coastal views. The seascapes at dawn and dusk are particularly stunning.

Torghatten is off the tourist radar, making the visit an intimate and memorable experience.

🔎 READ MORE on the unique Torghatten – Hiking Norway’s ‘Hole in the Mountain’ 

Essential Tips for Hiking in Norway

• Appropriate Gear: To adapt to rapid weather changes in the Norwegian mountains, always wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and layered, wind/ waterproof clothing.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Carry sufficient water to prevent dehydration and pack enough snacks and food to sustain your energy throughout the hike.
• Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with Norway’s emergency telephone numbers: Fire (110), Police (112), and Medical (113).
• Physical Readiness: Assess your physical condition to ensure it matches the hike’s difficulty level.
• Safety Measures:
  • Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
  • Use a mobile device for navigation and safety; download Yr.No for accurate weather updates and use an offline map app such as OSMAndMaps or Maps.Me

Navigating Norway’s Trails: Safety and Legal Obligations

Before you lace up your boots and hit the trails, you must familiarise yourself with the safety practices and legal rights that ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in Norway.

Norway’s Mountain Code

The Norwegian mountain code is in place to ensure that you think about your safety and that of others with you. The main points are outlined below; however, a comprehensive breakdown is given on the Norwegian Trekking Association DNT website.

• 1. Plan your trip and inform others about your selected route. 
• 2. Adapt the planned routes according to ability and conditions.
• 3. Pay attention to the weather and the avalanche warnings.
• 4. Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.
• 5. Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others.
• 6. Choose safe routes. Recognise avalanche terrain and unsafe ice. 
• 7. Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are.
• 8. Don’t be ashamed to turn around.
• 9. Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary.

Right to Roam: Norway’s ‘Allemannsretten’

A Norwegian Common Law (Allemannsretten) gives you the right to roam freely in Norway in uncultivated areas that include shores, forests, and mountains. However, individuals must still demonstrate respect for nature and consideration for others while complying with Norwegian law.

These are the main rules to follow:

• It is forbidden to walk on tended pastures and fields.
• Camping on fenced land or within 150m of a dwelling is not allowed without the landowner’s consent
• A maximum two-night stay in the same place without the landowner’s permission
• Waste must not be left behind
• No fires between 15 April and 15 September unless on the shoreline
• No motorised transport without the landowner’s permission
• Inland fishing and hunting are not covered by the right to roam
• Berry and flower picking is permitted unless signed otherwise. Cloudberries may not be picked.
• Hike at your own risk
• Dogs are to be kept on a leash between April 1 and 20th August.

You can read the full requirements of Norway’s Outdoor Recreational Act here.

Most Beautiful Day Hikes in Norway … That’s a Wrap

Exploring Norway’s rugged landscapes by foot offers a completely different experience, deeply connecting you with its natural splendour. From the challenging heights of Kjeragbolten to the serene trails of Bondhusdalen, each hike tells a story of its own beauty.

These top 10 hikes, suitable for beginners and experienced hikers, showcase the best of Norway’s dramatic scenery. Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or a stunning view, these hikes await your discovery.

Happy hiking!

Have you hiked Norway before? Any favourite hikes you can recommend? I’d love to share for all our readers.

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🇳🇴 More Information for Your Trip to Norway

NORWEGIAN FJORDS AND HIKES: Begin your adventure with our comprehensive guides to Norway’s best hikes. Discover the breathtaking views from Ryten in Lofoten, the thrill of Kjeragbolten, or the iconic Pulpit Rock. Each guide offers essential tips and stunning locations to explore.

LOFOTEN ISLANDS: Plan an unforgettable road trip through the Lofoten Islands with our Lofoten Road Trip Guide. Learn about each must-visit spot and how to make the most of your journey in this picturesque region.

CITY EXPLORATIONS: Discover the urban charms of Norway by visiting its beautiful cities. Whether you’re strolling through Trondheim or exploring Bergen, start with our guides to Trondheim to Bodø and the vibrant city life in Stavanger.

EXTENSIVE ITINERARIES: If you are beginning to plan your journey, take a look at our Two-Week Norway Itinerary for diverse ways to experience the country, from the fjords to the northern lights.

To fully explore what Norway has to offer, visit our comprehensive Norway Travel Guide.