Hut-to-Hut Pro: the perfect week in DNT huts without the extra weight

A week-long hike through Norway's national parks from hut to hut is the perfect combination of comfort and outdoor adventure. You don't need much equipment, there are pre-planned routes of less than 15 km per day and DNT automatic food depots where you can get food. You can enjoy the beautiful nature and be as free as you like.

Why is Jotunheimen National Park a great place to hike from one mountain hut to another?

Jotunheimen has well-marked and varied trails that are perfect for day hikes of less than 15 km. The DNT cabins, such as Gjendesheim and Glitterheim, are comfortable and conveniently located. They have everything you need to rest and relax. Every day brings new views and feelings, without any extra stress.

Which easy-to-reach, beautiful areas of Norway are best for day trips?

The routes around Rondane and Hardangervidda are really great. Rondane has easy trails and you might see reindeer, while Hardangervidda has great views of glaciers and pretty lakes. The paths between the huts Bjoreidalshytta and Finsehytta, and between Rondvassbu and Bjørnhollia, are great for leisurely day trips.

Which DNT campsites and huts are best for overnight stays on the Hut-to-Hut route?

The Gjendesheim huts in Jotunheimen and Rondvassbu in Rondane are both excellent options. They offer comfortable conditions, cosy rooms and places where you can buy food and pay for it yourself. You don't need to carry heavy food with you in these huts, so your backpack is lighter and you can move more easily and quickly.

What's the best way to plan your meals using DNT's automatic food stores?

DNT has a special system where you can get things for yourself. The huts have food stores with basic supplies (dried soups, porridge, pasta, canned food and snacks). Travellers can take the food themselves and pay for it via the app or in cash in a special box. Take some snacks with you, like energy bars, to keep your energy levels up during the day. And remember to restock your supplies in the huts in the evening.

Which animals can you see most often on the paths between the huts?

During the day, you might see deer, moose and even musk oxen in Dovrefjell. It is important to keep your distance and not to feed or bother the animals. National parks are great places to see wildlife without getting too close.

What are some easy ways to make your life easier?

Wear layers of clothing, use lightweight titanium cookware instead of heavy metal ones, choose a small sleeping bag weighing less than 1 kg and a lightweight mat to keep warm. Don't take too much water with you — there are plenty of places to get more along the route. For hygiene, use small toiletries, and for food, use lightweight containers that can be folded up. All equipment should fit into a backpack weighing up to 10kg to make sure your trip is comfortable and enjoyable.

How do I book places in DNT huts in advance?

You can easily book places in the huts via the official website or the DNT app. It is best to plan your route in advance, especially during the summer when demand is high. If you book in advance, you'll be sure to get a room and a comfortable bed for your hike.

What documents or apps should I have with me?

Make sure you download the DNT app, which has route maps, hut reservations and food payment. The yr.no weather app and lavin.varsom.no forecasts are also useful for travelling safely. Make sure you keep your hut reservation confirmation and ID with you.

A week of hiking from hut to hut through Norway's national parks lets you see the most beautiful and interesting places without any extra hassle. Use the DNT services, enjoy nature and comfort, and come back with great memories and photos.

Tell us about your experience by commenting below. Which routes and huts did you like the best? Share your photos and tips — we will publish the best stories and pictures in our catalogue!