My Story

Hiking Norway’s spectacular Trolltunga was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. A few years ago, I teamed up with my buddy Dave, who lives in the UK and we planned our trip to Norway. Our plan had us spending most of our time in the Western portion of the country exploring Bergen, hiking, rafting the Stranda in Vossevangen, biking to and around Flam (among other things) and finishing the trip with the 14 mile Trolltunga hike.

We left Bergen before dawn and drove to Odda, approximately a 3 hour drive, and arrived in the early morning. The weather that day was horrific, but we are both experienced hikers and we came well equipped. I had come all this way and was not about to turn back. We paid our parking, rechecked our packs, and headed out in some of the worst conditions I had ever hiked in. It was raining and it was windy, really windy (probably 50+ mph gusts). Here’s a short video I took on the mountain to give you a sense of it all:

Conditions Change Quickly

The trail was rocky, but well marked (see the images below). It rose quickly and steeply up the side of a mountain and then onto rolling ridges along a cliff-side. We made good time, occasionally trotting at a double-time pace. This was mainly because we didn’t know if the conditions might worsen further (and we wanted to have adequate time to return). You’ll notice the picture below of Dave pointing out a waterfall that is actually going UP instead of DOWN (did I mention that it was REALLY windy).

There’s really no view of the Trolltunga as you approach it, you come over some rocky hills around mile mark 7 and there it is! We spent about an hour at the site, eating lunch and taking turns photographing each other in this awe inspiring setting – the rain and wind adding a dramatic air to the photography. There were perhaps 2 or 3 other people there, but for the most part we were alone. I could imagine how crowded it might get on a clear day – we were lucky to have it to ourselves.

The trek back was uneventful, with the wind and rain lessening a bit. Back at the car, we mapped out our way to a local inn where we later enjoyed a fine bottle of wine and some authentic Norwegian cuisine.

Get started on your own adventure to Norway’s spectacular Trolltunga!

Nestled amidst Norway’s stunning fjords, Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) beckons adventurers with its breathtaking views and iconic rock formation. I hope the information provided here along with my own personal story will motivate you to plan an unforgettable journey to Trolltunga.

Location: Odda, Hordaland County, Norway
Distance: Approximately 23 kilometers (14.3 miles) round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous with challenging terrain and significant elevation gain
Best Time to Hike: Mid-June to September, when the trail is free of snow and weather conditions are favorable

Scenery – Trolltunga offers jaw-dropping views of Ringedalsvatnet Lake, cascading waterfalls, and the dramatic landscapes of the Hardangervidda National Park. The iconic rock ledge itself provides an unparalleled vantage point over the fjords.

Natural Wonders – Encounter Norway’s pristine wilderness, including alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear glacial lakes along the trail.

Norway’s spectacular Trolltunga – Photography

Trailhead and Route – The trail begins at the Skjeggedal parking lot near Tyssedal village. From here, follow well-marked signs and ascend through birch forests, rocky terrain, and eventually alpine landscapes.

Terrain and Elevation – Prepare for a challenging ascent, gaining approximately 900 meters (2,950 feet) in elevation. The trail features steep sections, rocky paths, and narrow ridges, requiring sturdy footwear and trekking poles.

Norway’s Spectacular Trolltunga – Points of Interest

• Tysso Via Ferrata: Optional route featuring ladders and chains for adventurous hikers.
• Ringedalsvatnet Lake: Stunning views of the glacial lake from above.
• Trolltunga Ledge: The iconic rock formation extending 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet.

Preparation

• Fitness Level: Assess your fitness and prepare for a strenuous hike lasting 8-12 hours round trip.
• Gear: Pack essentials including layers for changing weather, plenty of water (minimum 2 liters), snacks, a map, and a fully charged phone or GPS device.
• Weather Conditions: Check local forecasts and be prepared for rapid weather changes. Dress in layers and carry rain gear.

Permits and Regulations

• Parking: Arrive early to secure PAID parking at Skjeggedal. Also, consider carpooling or using public transportation.
• Guided Tours: Optional for those seeking additional guidance and safety assurance.

Leave No Trace

Respect the environment by staying on designated trails, packing out all trash, and minimizing your impact on fragile ecosystems. Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve Trolltunga’s natural beauty for future generations.

Checkout our article: How to Leave No Trace: A Guide to Responsible Outdoor Recreation.

Embark on an epic adventure to Trolltunga and immerse yourself in Norway’s unparalleled natural beauty. From challenging terrain to awe-inspiring vistas, this hike promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the majestic fjords and rugged landscapes.

Have you conquered Trolltunga or planning your trip? Share your stories, tips, and photos in the comments below. Please feel free to submit questions so we can inspire and support fellow adventurers in their journey to Trolltunga!

Learn more at Norway’s Official Troll Tunga Site – HERE

Checkout our accessories and gear for hikers to compliment your next journey!