Planning Your First Hiking Trip to Norway

To hike Norway successfully, focus on the 'Allemannsretten' (right to roam) laws and pack for four seasons in a single day. You will need to book mountain huts at least 3 months in advance and plan your routes using the UT.no app.

  1. Choose your region based on terrain. If you want iconic fjords, target the Sunnmøre Alps or Hardangerfjord. For dramatic, jagged peaks, head north to the Lofoten Islands. Beginners should stick to marked trails in Jotunheimen National Park.
  2. Master the UT.no app. Download UT.no. It is the official Norwegian Trekking Association app. It maps every marked trail and indicates the difficulty level (Green=Easy, Blue=Moderate, Red=Demanding, Black=Expert).
  3. Secure DNT cabin access. Norway has a network of DNT (Den Norske Turistforening) cabins. If you plan to stay in them, buy a DNT membership to get the universal key and discounted rates. Book popular serviced cabins 3-4 months ahead.
  4. Check the weather twice daily. Use Yr.no for the most accurate localized weather forecasts. Do not trust general 'Norway' forecasts, as weather changes drastically between valleys and peaks.
Can I camp anywhere?
Yes, thanks to 'Allemannsretten'. You can camp anywhere in the wild as long as you are 150 meters away from occupied houses or cabins and stay no longer than two nights in the same spot.
Are the trails difficult?
Norwegian trails are often rugged, rocky, and involve steep elevation gain. 'Easy' in Norway is often equivalent to 'Moderate' elsewhere.