4.8
(44)
142
hikers
Kjemåfossen Loop Trail
03:30
9.50km
310m
Hiking
Hike this moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) loop to Kjemåfossen waterfall in Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park, offering diverse scenery.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
3.12 km
Kjemåfossen
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
3.65 km
Bridge across Kjemåfossen
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
5.57 km
View of Kjemåfjellet
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
9.50 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.46 km
1.90 km
1.51 km
632 m
Surfaces
5.46 km
2.14 km
1.27 km
632 m
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Elevation
Highest point (350 m)
Lowest point (100 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 26 May
9°C
4°C
98 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail start and where can I park?
The trail conveniently starts at the Nordland National Park Center in Storjord, Norway. There is parking available at the center, making it an accessible starting point for your hike.
How do I get to the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail by public transport?
The trail is located near Storjord, which can be accessed by public transport. You can look for bus connections to Storjord, Norway, which will bring you close to the Nordland National Park Center where the trail begins.
Is the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail dog-friendly?
The trail is generally dog-friendly, but always ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially in national park areas and during certain times of the year to protect wildlife. Please clean up after your pet.
What is the best time of year to hike the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail?
The trail is typically accessible from May to October. During these months, you can expect the best conditions for hiking, with the waterfall in full flow and the surrounding nature vibrant. Winter access may be limited due to snow and ice.
Are there any permits or fees required to hike the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail or enter Saltfjellet–Svartisen National Park?
No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail or to enter Saltfjellet–Svartisen National Park. However, always respect national park regulations regarding nature and wildlife.
How difficult is the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail and what is the terrain like?
The trail is rated as moderate. It begins on a well-maintained path through a forest, then transitions to a steeper trail alongside the waterfall. Sections include installed steps and bridges, and some parts may require sure-footedness, especially through scree. Good fitness is recommended.
How long does it take to hike the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail?
The full loop is approximately 9.5 kilometers (9495.7 meters) and typically takes around 3.5 hours (12573 seconds) to complete. The one-way ascent to the waterfall is estimated to take 1 to 1.5 hours.
What are the main sights and viewpoints along the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail?
The centerpiece is the powerful Kjemåfossen waterfall itself. You'll also cross a Bridge across Kjemåfossen offering excellent views, and enjoy a View of Kjemåfjellet. Other notable spots include pleasant picnic areas, a natural climbing jungle, and the historic Futhellaren rock shelter.
Is the Kjemåfossen Loop Trail suitable for families or beginners?
While parts of the trail are well-maintained and accessible, the sections alongside the waterfall are steep and may require sure-footedness. It's considered moderate, so families with younger children or beginners should be prepared for some challenging sections and ensure they have good fitness.
Are there any facilities or amenities near the trailhead, such as cafes or accommodation?
Yes, the trail starts at the Nordland National Park Center in Storjord, which often has visitor facilities. Storjord itself is a small community where you might find cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options. It's advisable to check local listings for current availability.
Are there any specific safety considerations or unique features to be aware of on the trail?
When hiking alongside Kjemåfossen, be mindful of the powerful rushing water, especially if taking detours for closer views. The trail features installed steps and bridges in steeper sections for safety. The waterfall was famously saved from power generation, making it a symbol of nature conservation.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
At first, a slightly different route was planned. We then spontaneously decided to take the path along the waterfall. It was beautiful and lonely, but in places very steep and difficult. We needed all fours several times, it wouldn't be fun if it was wet. 😁 We are a little above the Arctic Circle and it's up to 30 degrees today, but there's always a breeze. 🌞 We've now returned to Sweden through the tunnel. The next 250 km are still unknown to us and we've marked a few things in our brochures. This time we have more goals than time. 🤔 It's supposed to get cooler again and there might be some precipitation. The midnight sun is missing again today because the view to the north is blocked by the mountains. It's still bright. 🍀🙋♀️🙋♂️
jogged downhill. With a normal gait, the travel time is significantly longer.
The hike is quite challenging, as it runs from the base of the waterfall almost to the highest point in/on the mountain. The return route then winds down the mountain for almost 5 km. ... If you don't want to climb, you can also do the return route as an outward journey – but then you'll only see the uppermost parts of the waterfall. 😉 Marking: red dots/areas on tree trunks and stones. Not recommended during or immediately after rain. -> Danger of slipping on the various rocky sections.