Is there still snow on the mountains around the fjords in spring?
Snow on the peaks, blossom by the water and which mountain roads are open.
Short answer
Yes, in spring the mountains around the fjords usually still have snow, and high mountain roads such as Trollstigen and Aurlandsfjellet do not open until May or June. Down by the water spring comes earlier: Visit Norway points to blossoming fruit trees along the Hardangerfjord, and by summer most of the mountain snow has melted.
Why
- Visit Norway notes that coastal areas have relatively mild and wet winters, but with snow in the mountains.
- According to Visit Norway, the scenic route over Trollstigen to Geiranger is usually open from mid-May to October or November and is closed in winter.
- Aurlandsfjellet, the Snow Road above the Aurlandsfjord, has opened between 7 May and 3 June in earlier years, and opened on 1 June in 2026.
Details
Spring usually reaches Southern Norway sometime in April, and in early spring the coast of Fjord Norway is typically the warmest part of the country. In Bergen the 1991–2020 normal is 7.2 °C in April and 10.7 °C in May. Higher up the snow lingers: plenty of Norwegians head to the mountains at Easter for the snow, and in the Hardangerfjord region you can ski all year round high above the fjord.
Tip
Pack for two seasons, with layers for sun, rain and even snow, and check which mountain roads are open before you plan a driving route.
What may differ
Spring comes later in the north: Visit Norway says true spring may not arrive above the Arctic Circle until late May or early June. Road opening dates also vary from year to year.
Common misconception
In spring the fjords are still frozen.
What actually happens
The snow lies on the mountains, not on the water. Visit Norway says the Norwegian fjords remain virtually ice-free, and ferry services operate all year round.
People also ask
- Is there snow on the mountains around the fjords in April and May?
Sources
- Visit Norway: Seasons and climateChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Spring in NorwayChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Scenic route Geiranger and TrollstigenChecked at:
- National Tourist Routes: AurlandsfjelletChecked at:
- Visit Norway: The Norwegian fjordsChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Road opening dates change every year, so check Statens vegvesen before you travel.
May ski touring in NorwayRelated questions
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What does 'there is no bad weather, only bad clothing' mean in Norway?
The saying means that bad weather is no reason to stay indoors, because the right clothes let you enjoy being outside in rain, wind or cold.
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Do I need sunscreen in Norway?
Yes, you need sunscreen in Norway, especially in spring and summer, on snow in the mountains and on the water, where reflection makes UV radiation stronger.
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Do I need ice grips (brodder) on my shoes in a Norwegian winter?
Ice grips, called brodder in Norwegian, are worth packing for a winter trip, because temperatures around freezing often leave pavements and paths icy.
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What shoes should I bring to Norway?
Bring sturdy shoes that handle rain and rough paths, and in winter warm boots with room for wool socks and a good grip on ice.