Aurlandsdalen Trek
Duration: 6 days
Trails: T3 trails
Distance: 10 - 15 km per day
Ascent per day: 250 - 500 m ascent per day
> Discover the Aurlandsdalen Valley, Norway's "Grand Canyon"
> Hike past centuries-old mountain farms
> Accommodation before and after the trek is included for your convenience
The Aurlandsdalen Valley is a dream for hikers who want to combine adventure, nature and a touch of Norwegian culture. This iconic trail takes you from Finse to Vassbygdi, straight through a landscape that seems straight out of a postcard. From verdant valleys to rugged gorges, every step brings a new view and a piece of history.
The trek takes you past babbling rivers, deep blue mountain lakes and impressive rock formations, such as the mysterious Vetlahelvete Pit. Waterfalls thunder down steep mountain sides as you walk along well-marked trails. Suitable for the moderately experienced hiker, challenging enough to put your calves to work, but without extreme technical passages.
And the best part? Each day you finish in a cozy mountain hut, where a hearty Norwegian meal awaits you. Think freshly baked bread, creamy fish soup and game stew - just what you need after a day in the great outdoors. With comfortable accommodations before and after the trek, you won't have to think about anything except the view and maybe ... what Norwegian beer you've earned in the evening.
Itinerary
Day
1
Arrival day
Arriving in Finse, a hidden gem in the Norwegian mountains, is the perfect start to your walking adventure. Accessible by the iconic train, this remote and picturesque hamlet is steeped in history, having once served as a training ground for legendary polar explorers.
At the heart of Finse is Finsehytta, your cozy first stop on this multi-day trek. Surrounded by rugged peaks and glaciers, it's the ideal place to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Norway before embarking on your Aurlandsdalen trek.
Fun fact: Finse was chosen as the location for one of the episodes in the Star Wars saga. This remote but idyllic location was used to film an important battle on the snowy planet of Hoth, did you know that?
Finsehytta
Day
2
From Finsehytta to Geiterygghytta
Duration: 06:30 h
Distance: 14.5 km
Ascent: 440 m
Descent: 430 m
On the second day, your trek begins with a gentle walk along the base of Jomfrunuten, providing a tranquil introduction to the day. You'll cross a picturesque suspension bridge over a river gorge, adding a touch of adventure to the walk. The route, marked by steady climbs and gentle descents, weaves through towering mountains with breathtaking views of peaks and shimmering alpine lakes.
A highlight of the day is the 400-metre climb to Klemsbu, where the trail runs alongside the beautiful Omnsvatnet lake. Your journey ends at Geiterygghytta, a cozy mountain cabin that combines historic charm with modern comforts. Here you can enjoy a warm welcome, a delicious three-course dinner, and even a refreshing swim in the tranquil Geitryggvatnet lake. The perfect way to end a rewarding day!
Geiterygghytta
Day
3
From Geiterygghytta to Steinbergdalshytta
Duration: 05:00 h
Distance: 10.5 km
Ascent: 250 m
Descent: 420 m
Day three begins with a steady climb up the western slope of Sundhellerskarvet, rewarding you with sweeping views over the breathtaking Aurlandsdalen valley. The trail then takes you across vast alpine plains, where you'll pass the tranquil lakes of Vestredalsvatnet and Vetlebotnvatnet, with a winding path stretching to the horizon.
The journey continues over Rossdalen Lake and across a sturdy aluminium bridge over a rushing stream, a perfect place to stop and take in the wild beauty of the landscape. A final descent through the steep Stemmerdalshalli valley brings you to the charming Steinbergdalshytta. This historic mountain lodge welcomes you with hearty traditional food and a cozy atmosphere, making it the ideal place to rest after a busy day on the trail.
Steinbergdalshytta
Day
4
From Steinbergdalshytta to Aurlandsdalen Turisthytte (Østerbø)
Duration: 04:45 h
Distance: 9.5 km
Ascent: 240 m
Descent: 490 m
After leaving Steinbergdalshytta, the trail enters a lush landscape full of flowers and ferns as it climbs steeply along the edge of Nosafjellet. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the shimmering Øyestølsvatnet lake and the tranquil meadows of the Skoradn valley.
The trail zigzags through the vibrant Sauavaddalen valley, where wildflowers add splashes of color to the alpine landscape. After crossing the Grøna River, the trail begins a steep descent into a tranquil forest area and finally emerges on the shores of Aurdalsvatnet lake. Your day ends at the cozy Aurlandsdalen Turisthytte by the lake— the perfect place to relax after an exhilarating day on the trail.
Aurlandsdalen Turisthytte
Day
5
From Aurlandsdalen Turisthytte to Flåm via Vassbygdi (challenging)
Duration: 07:15 h
Distance: 14.5 km
Ascent: 290 m
Descent: 1030 m
The final leg of your trek takes you along the historic Aurlandselvi River Trail from Østerbø to Vassbygdi, renowned for its breathtaking scenery. The route winds through deep gorges, past cascading waterfalls, and the striking Vetlahelvete mine, a natural wonder in the lush Aurland valley.
Along the way, you'll pass historic farms, evidence of life in this rugged yet beautiful valley. You climb Bjørnstigen with its incredible views and finish in the picturesque hamlet of Vassbygdi. A fitting end to your journey through the natural and cultural wonders of Aurlandsdalen.
After arriving at Vassbygdi, take the bus to Flåm where you will spend the night. Relax, rest and reflect on this unique adventure!
Brekke Gard Hostel (Flåm)
Day
6
Departure Day
After waking up, the journey to your next destination in Norway marks the end of your unforgettable hiking experience. As you wind your way along the scenic route, you will have one last chance to take in the natural beauty of Norway—a fitting and peaceful end to an exciting trek. See you soon!
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Justa Atema
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