Besshøe Summit Trail

This hike is consistently rated as difficult, requiring a high level of fitness, sure-footedness, and appropriate footwear. The terrain is varied and challenging. You'll start with an uphill climb, then follow the northern edge of Bessvatnet Lake, which can be muddy, rocky, and waterlogged. The final 3-kilometer ascent to the peak is steep, gaining around 850 meters, and involves a rough moraine landscape with large, scattered stones. Alpine experience is recommended for some technical sections.

The hike is a full-day endeavor, typically taking between 8 to 12 hours to complete. This duration accounts for the 22 km distance and the significant 1267 meters of elevation gain.

The trail offers tremendous views throughout. You'll see the iconic Besseggen ridge, the striking turquoise View of Lake Gjende, and Bessvatnet. From the summit, you're rewarded with sweeping panoramic vistas of Jotunheimen's glaciers, dramatic valleys, and many recognizable peaks. You'll also pass near Besshøbrean, a small cirque glacier.

The trail usually begins with an uphill climb from Gjendesheim Lodge. Parking is available at Gjendesheim, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. For public transport, you can often find bus services connecting to Gjendesheim, which is a common starting point for many hikes in the area.

There are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike Besshøe or to enter Jotunheimen National Park itself. However, parking at trailheads like Gjendesheim may incur a fee. Always check local regulations before your trip, as conditions can change.

The best time to hike Besshøe is typically during the summer months, from late June to early September, when the snow has largely melted and the weather is most stable. Outside of this period, you can expect snow, ice, and more challenging conditions, making it suitable only for experienced winter hikers.

While dogs are generally allowed in Jotunheimen National Park, specific rules may apply to this challenging trail. Given the difficult and rocky terrain, and potential for steep sections, ensure your dog is fit and accustomed to such conditions. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially during nesting seasons or when near livestock.

No, the Summit hike to Besshøe is not suitable for beginners. It is rated as difficult, requires a high level of fitness, sure-footedness, and some alpine experience for its technical and strenuous sections. Beginners should look for less demanding trails in the region.

Besshøe is often recommended as a challenging alternative to the popular Besseggen ridge. It offers similar spectacular views over Lake Gjende and the surrounding Jotunheimen landscape but is generally less crowded, providing a more solitary and demanding experience for those seeking to avoid the throngs on Besseggen.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other official trails. You will find that it covers parts of the Signatur Omveien (Dag 10), Gjendesheim-Besseggen-Memurubu, and Signatur Omveien (Dag 9).

Given the difficult terrain and long duration, you should bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, waterproof and windproof layers, plenty of water and high-energy snacks, a map and compass (or GPS device), a first-aid kit, and sun protection. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on the steep and rocky sections.