The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Gjende

Our guide features 22 hiking routes around Gjende, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging day hikes. While many are suitable for families with older children or those seeking a longer adventure, we specifically highlight routes like the View of the Sjoa River – DNT Gjendesheim loop from Gjendesheim as an excellent easy option for younger children.

The hiking season in Gjende typically runs from mid-June to mid-October. For families, the peak season in July and early August offers the most stable weather conditions and full operation of facilities like the ferry service and staffed cabins. However, be prepared for varying weather, even in summer, and always check forecasts before heading out.

Yes, for families with toddlers or very young children, the View of the Sjoa River – DNT Gjendesheim loop from Gjendesheim is an excellent choice. This easy, 2.6 km loop takes about 40 minutes and offers a gentle introduction to the beautiful Gjende landscape without significant elevation gain.

Gjende is renowned for its dramatic mountainous surroundings and the distinctive emerald-green lake, a result of glacial rock flour. Many trails offer stunning views of this unique lake and the surrounding peaks. You'll also encounter a rich flora with over 700 different species, especially near Gjendebu, and potentially glimpse the contrasting deep blue Bessvatnet lake from higher vantage points.

Yes, several routes in our guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For an easy family-friendly option, consider the View of the Sjoa River – DNT Gjendesheim loop from Gjendesheim. For families seeking a longer, more challenging loop with older children, routes like the View of Lake Gjende – Bessa Waterfall loop from Gjendesheim offer rewarding experiences.

The Gjende area is well-equipped for hikers. Key hubs like Gjendebu and Gjendesheim offer staffed cabins, often with cafes and information points. The Besseggen Kiosk Gjendeosen at Gjendesheim provides services, and the ferry terminals (Gjendeheim Boat Dock, Memurubu ferry, Gjendebu Ferry Terminal) are central to many hiking plans, offering convenient access across the lake.

Gjendesheim, a primary starting point for many hikes, is accessible by bus. The ferry service across Lake Gjende is also a crucial part of public transport in the area, connecting Gjendesheim, Memurubu, and Gjendebu, allowing for various one-way hikes and convenient returns.

The komoot community highly rates the Gjende area, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking views of the emerald-green lake, the well-maintained trails, and the convenience of the ferry system for planning diverse routes. The sense of accomplishment after completing a hike in such a dramatic landscape is frequently highlighted.

The Besseggen Ridge Trail is a challenging 14-kilometer hike with significant elevation, typically taking 6-8 hours. While incredibly rewarding, its steep and exposed sections make it generally unsuitable for young children or families seeking an easy outing. It's best reserved for families with older, experienced hikers who are comfortable with demanding mountain terrain.

Absolutely! While Besseggen is iconic, there are other trails that offer fantastic views without the extreme difficulty. For instance, the View of Lake Gjende – Bessa Waterfall loop from Gjendesheim provides beautiful vistas of Lake Gjende and a waterfall, offering a challenging but less exposed experience than Besseggen. Always choose a route that matches your family's fitness and experience level.

Parking is available at key access points, most notably at Gjendesheim. This is a primary starting point for many hikes and the ferry service. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly, especially for popular routes like those involving the Besseggen ferry.