The best walks and hikes around Jostedalsbreen

Jostedalsbreen National Park offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 160 trails recorded. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks across glacial terrain.

The terrain around Jostedalsbreen is incredibly diverse, ranging from lush valleys to barren alpine zones and vast ice fields. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult trails. There are over 60 easy routes, 70 moderate, and more than 30 challenging hikes, including glacier crossings and mountain ascents. The landscape is dramatically sculpted by glacial activity, featuring U-shaped valleys, rugged peaks, and numerous meltwater rivers and waterfalls.

Yes, there are many family-friendly options. Easy trails like the Up to Briksdalsbreen glacier route or the Flat hike to Bergsetbreen glacier are excellent choices. These paths are generally well-maintained and offer stunning views without requiring extensive hiking experience, making them suitable for families with children.

The park is rich in natural wonders. You can witness the massive Jostedalsbreen glacier itself, along with its prominent arms like Briksdalsbreen and Bergsetbreen. Many trails feature spectacular waterfalls, glacial lakes like Briksdalsbreen Glacial Lake, and dramatic U-shaped valleys. For panoramic views, consider routes that lead to viewpoints overlooking the fjords and the glacier, such as the trail To the viewpoint at Haugabreen Glacier.

Generally, dogs are allowed on most hiking trails in Jostedalsbreen National Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Always check specific trail regulations, especially in areas with grazing animals or sensitive ecosystems. It's also advisable to carry enough water for your dog, as natural water sources might not always be accessible or safe to drink.

Yes, while many routes are out-and-back to glacier viewpoints, there are also circular options available. These routes often combine different sections of trails, allowing you to experience varied landscapes without retracing your steps. You can use komoot's route planner to discover and create circular tours that suit your preferences.

The best time for hiking in Jostedalsbreen is typically during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the snow has largely melted from lower and mid-elevation trails, temperatures are milder, and daylight hours are long. This is also when guided glacier tours are most readily available. Early spring and late autumn can offer beautiful scenery but may involve more challenging conditions due to snow and ice.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3500 reviews. Hikers often praise the monumental ice formations, the dramatic glacial valleys, and the cascading waterfalls. The diversity of trails, from easy walks to challenging glacier crossings, is also frequently highlighted, allowing everyone to find a suitable adventure.

Yes, Jostedalsbreen offers excellent opportunities for multi-day hikes, especially for those seeking more remote and challenging experiences. Trails like the Lodalskåpa from Bødalssetra Trail can be part of longer expeditions. These often involve traversing varied terrain, including higher alpine sections, and may require proper gear and experience. There are also DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) cabins, like Skålatårnet, that can serve as overnight stops.

Accessibility varies depending on the specific trailhead. Many popular starting points, especially those leading to major glacier arms like Briksdalsbreen, have designated parking areas, often for a fee. Public transport options to some trailheads exist but can be limited, particularly for more remote routes. It's recommended to research specific access points for your chosen hike. For general information about the park, you can visit visitjostedalsbreen.no.

As a national park, Jostedalsbreen has regulations in place to protect its unique environment. These typically include rules about keeping dogs on leashes, not disturbing wildlife, staying on marked trails where applicable, and proper waste disposal. Camping is generally permitted in designated areas or following 'allemannsretten' (right to roam) principles, but specific restrictions may apply near glaciers or sensitive areas. Always check local signage and official park information for the most current regulations.

While popular glacier arms like Nigardsbreen and Briksdalsbreen can attract crowds, the vastness of Jostedalsbreen National Park means there are many opportunities for more secluded hikes. Exploring areas around Austerdalsbreen or Tunsbergdalsbreen, or choosing longer, more challenging routes like the Bødalsseter to Bodalsbreen Glacier Trail, can lead to a more tranquil experience away from the main tourist paths. These often require more planning and self-sufficiency.