The best walks and hikes around Femsjøen

Femsjøen offers a variety of hiking trails characterized by picturesque lake scenery, dense woodlands, and features of the historic Halden Waterway. You'll find paths ranging from easy strolls to more challenging moderate routes, often with views of the lake and surrounding forests. There are 23 routes in total, with 10 easy and 13 moderate options.

Yes, Femsjøen has 10 easy routes perfect for beginners or families. An example is the Gørrtjern loop from Asak kirke, which is about 6.4 km long and features gentle terrain through the forest.

A significant attraction is the Brekke Locks, located on the eastern side of Femsjøen. This impressive lock system is part of the Halden Waterway, and the area around it offers marked trails with views of both the water and the forest. The lake itself, with its islands like Lilleøya and Storøya, provides beautiful natural scenery.

Yes, many of the routes around Femsjøen are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Store Erte Lakeside Trail – Start of Trollstien loop from Ormtjernhytta is a moderate 9.5 km loop offering lakeside views and forested sections.

The trails in Femsjøen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 18 reviews. Hikers often praise the picturesque lake scenery, the dense woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that offer a diverse outdoor experience.

Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in Norway, but it's important to keep them on a leash, especially during the bird nesting season (April 1 to August 20) and in areas with livestock. Always check local regulations for specific leash requirements in the Halden municipality.

While Femsjøen is accessible, public transport options directly to all trailheads might be limited. The city of Halden serves as a main hub, and some routes, like the bike route 'Around the Femsjøen' which can be adapted for hiking, start from Halden's guest harbor. For specific trailheads, checking local bus schedules from Halden towards areas like Tistedalen or Asak would be advisable.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular starting points, such as those near Kruseter or Asak kirke, often have designated parking areas. For example, routes like the Høgås – Gørrtjern loop from Asak kirke would typically have parking facilities near the church.

The best time for hiking around Femsjøen is typically from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the natural scenery, with lush forests and the lake, is at its most vibrant. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage, while spring brings fresh greenery. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice.

Yes, Femsjøen offers several moderate routes that are longer and have more elevation gain. For instance, the Store Erte Lakeside Trail – Start of Trollstien loop from Kruseter is a moderate 14.7 km path with an elevation gain of 194 meters, exploring forested shores and offering expansive lake views.

The city of Halden, located just east of Femsjøen, offers various options for dining and accommodation, from cafes to restaurants and hotels. While direct facilities on the immediate hiking trails might be limited, you can find amenities in nearby towns and villages like Tistedalen.

Femsjøen is characterized by its significant lake scenery, being the fifth and lowest lake in the Halden Waterway system. It boasts a surface area of 10.64 square kilometers and a shore length of nearly 31 kilometers, featuring several islands. The surrounding landscape is dominated by lush greenery and extensive forests, providing a rich natural environment for hikers.