How to conquer Trolltunga: a complete guide to Norway's most famous hiking trail

Trolltunga is a famous viewpoint hanging over Ringedalsvatn Lake that attracts thousands of travellers every year. The photo taken at the edge of this cliff has become the country's most famous image. However, the journey here is not easy: it is 20–28 km there and back, with a climb of 800–1,000 m. In this guide, you will learn how to prepare for the trail, what to expect along the way, and why it is worth the effort. Go on the best hike in Norway!

Where does the Troll's Tongue trail start and how do I get there?

The trail starts in the village of Skjeggedal, near the town of Odda. You can get there by car or bus from Bergen, which takes about 3 hours. There is paid parking in the car park (300 NOK per day). Important: in summer, the car park fills up quickly — we recommend arriving before 6 a.m. The first 4 km from the car park are the steepest climb (about 450 m elevation gain). Here's a handy tip: to make the start easier, take a shuttle to the upper car park. This will shorten the route by about 3 km.

How long does the hike to Trolltunga take?

The full route from the lower car park there and back takes about 10–12 hours, and from the upper car park, about 7–8 hours. It is important to pace yourself and manage your time well. Start the route before 8 a.m. to be back before dark. The best time to visit is July to September, when the trail is completely free of snow. Here's a handy tip: bring a torch in case there are delays and always check the weather — it changes quickly in the mountains.

What should you take with you on the route?

The weather on Trolltunga can be unpredictable, even in summer. Remember to take:

• You will need a waterproof jacket and thermal underwear (the temperature at the top of the mountain can be around +5...+10°C).
• Make sure you wear sturdy hiking boots because the rocks along the route are slippery.
• Make sure you have enough food and water (about 2 litres per person).
• Make sure you put on sunscreen and sunglasses (there will be very strong wind and sun at the top).
• A phone that needs charging and a portable battery.

Important: walking sticks will help take the strain off your knees when you're going downhill. And don't forget your camera, because the views are amazing!

How difficult is the route and who is it suitable for?

The route to Trolltunga is considered to be medium to high difficulty. Although children and elderly tourists regularly walk the trail, it is quite challenging. The main difficulties are that it goes up a lot (about 1,000 m) and it's long. Here's a helpful tip: take regular short breaks and keep up a steady, calm pace. If you are not sure what you are capable of, choose the two-day route and spend the night in a tent or mountain hut.

Is it possible to spend the night on the route and how to do it correctly?

Yes, many travellers like to divide the route into two days, with an overnight stay. You can only pitch a tent in special areas marked with signs (for example, on the plateau near Trolltunga). Please follow these rules: don't leave rubbish behind and don't light open fires. Important: at night, it can get below zero even in summer, so bring a warm sleeping bag and clothes. You will see an amazing sunrise at the top, and you won't have to share it with lots of other tourists.

Where should we take pictures on the route?

The best place to take photos is the Troll's Tongue itself, which is 700 metres above the lake. But there are several other unique places to visit along the way:

• You can also stop at a viewing platform around the 8th kilometre, which has a great view of the lake.
• A plateau with lakes a few kilometres before the top, where clouds and mountains can be seen.
• There are waterfalls and small streams along the way.

Here's a handy tip: take a lightweight camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the full beauty of the landscape. The light here is especially beautiful in the morning and evening.

What's the best way to organise food and drink while hiking?

There are no cafes or shops along the route. Make sure you have plenty of high-calorie snacks ready, such as nuts, chocolate, energy bars, sandwiches and fruit. The water in the streams along the route is drinkable, but you might not be able to get it depending on the season and the weather. It's important to always carry a bottle of water with you and fill it up as soon as you can. Drink some hot tea in a thermos flask to warm up on the mountain top.

A hike to Trolltunga is a real adventure that will show you the unique nature of Norway. It's a challenging route, but you'll get amazing views, feel a sense of achievement and have photos you can be proud of for a lifetime. Prepare in advance, take the necessary equipment and don't rush: the beauty of the Norwegian mountains and fjords is best seen at a leisurely pace. Try out this famous route and see for yourself why Trolltunga is one of the best hikes in Norway.