5 Beautiful Hikes in Norway You Need to Know

Norway's dramatic landscapes offer some of the world's most spectacular hiking opportunities. From jagged mountain peaks to pristine beaches, the country's diverse terrain is unbeatable. One of our the main reasons we were excited to visit Norway was to hike there, so now we're excited to share our favourite hikes in Norway to inspire your trip. 

This blog will include some of the famous and popular hikes but also some lesser known gems so that you can experience the quiet and peace of Norway's nature too. 

1. Reinebringen: The Iconic Lofoten Experience

Distance: 5.7km

Elevation: 521m 

Route type: Out-and-back

Difficulty: Not technically difficult (no scrambling) but physically demanding due to the stone step ascent

Parking: Parking in the village of Reine 

Arguably one of the most famous hikes in Norway and one of the most incredible views we've seen. This is certainly the gem of the Lofoten Islands, although definitely not a hidden gem.

This is a moderately challenging trail but will reward hikers with a breathtaking view of Reine's fishing village and Reinefjorden with its surrounding peaks creating a landscape that seems almost too perfect to be real.

The most challenging aspect of this hike is the relentless climb up the 1,974 stone steps built by Nepalese Sherpas, this has made the route more accessible than its previously muddy state but they still demand good physical condition and proper footwear, it pretty much feels like an hour on the stair master.

Reinebringen can get very busy during the day so if you're visiting in the summer months, we really recommend taking advantage of the 24/7 daylight and hiking in the evening. Even setting off at 10pm, we shared the trail and the summit with other hikes, but only a fraction of the amount we saw hiking up during the day. 

Important note: Reinebringen is not recommended during winter months unless you're accompanied by an experienced guide or are well-versed in winter hiking. The steps become treacherously icy, transforming this moderate hike into a potentially dangerous adventure.

2. Vøringsfossen: Accessible Natural Wonder

Distance: 1.8km

Elevation: 68m

Route type: Circular

Difficulty: Easy

Parking: Large, free car park

Vøringsfossen is one of the best hikes in Norway if you’re looking for hike that is relatively low effort but high reward.  It’s one of Norway's most visited waterfalls featuring a a vertical drop of 182 meters (597 feet).

The well-maintained boardwalk system allows visitors of varying physical abilities to enjoy magnificent views of the waterfall and the Måbødalen valley below. This infrastructure makes Vøringsfossen one of the easiest experiences on this list, yet the views rival those of much more challenging hikes.

The strategic viewing platforms provide perfect photo opportunities of the waterfall cascading dramatically into the valley. If you visit during the summer months, you might even catch glimpses of rainbows forming in the mist.

3. Hesten: The Ultimate Segla Viewpoint

Distance: 5.1km

Elevation: 541m

Route type: Out-and-back

Difficulty: Short but demanding

Parking: Fjordgard’s school car park

While many visitors to Senja Island set their sights on conquering the famous Segla mountain, those in the know head to Hesten instead. This moderate hike offers what many consider to be the best view on the entire island, a perfect panorama of the iconic peak of Segla rising dramatically from the sea.

It's important not to confuse this hike with climbing Segla itself. Hesten is a separate mountain that provides the ideal vantage point for appreciating the majestic Segla against the backdrop of fjords and the Norwegian Sea.

The trail to Hesten's summit is well-marked and once at the top, you'll understand why this viewpoint is considered superior, the sweeping views focus on not just Segla, but the surrounding peaks, fjords, and open sea. 

4. Hovdsundet Beach: Arctic Circle's Hidden Paradise

Distance: 6.4km (not including the scramble down to the beach)

Elevation: 112m

Route type: Out-and-back

Difficulty: Easy

Parking: Carpark next to Mulstrandtind trailhead

Some of Norway's best treasures remain off the beaten path, and Hovdsundet Beach near Bodø is the perfect example. Located within the Arctic Circle, this pristine stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water feels more like it belongs in the Caribbean than Norway. 

Reaching this hidden gem requires commitment though as the journey involves a relatively long walk followed by a sketchy descent to the beach itself. However, this effort serves as a natural filter and virtually guarantees you'll have this paradise all to yourself. 

It’s best to plan your visit earlier in the day so that you can make the most of the sun and the beach without shadows from the surrounding mountains. 

5. Raksetra: Stryn's Historic Mountain Farm

Distance: 2.7km

Elevation: 262m

Route type: Out-and-back

Difficulty: Easy

Parking: Carpark next to Mulstrandtind trailhead

Our final recommendation takes us to Stryn, where the Raksetra mountain farm hike offers a perfect blend of Norwegian culture and natural wonder. The trail itself is varied including forests and open mountainsides, before reaching the beautifully preserved old mountain farm featuring traditional structures with living roofs.

The historical farm buildings alone would make this journey worthwhile, but you'll be treated to spectacular views over Olden and the turquoise waters of Loen Lake, it’s got to be one of the most beautiful hikes in Norway. 

Final Thoughts

We think these hikes in Norway are some of the best, ranging from easily accessible natural wonders to challenging summits with once-in-a-lifetime views.