❄️ Ice up close: safe tracks in Jostedalsbreen
You are standing on the edge of a huge glacier. Under your feet is see-through blue ice, formed over thousands of years by nature. Massive walls of glacial crevasses tower around you, reflecting amazing shades of turquoise and sapphire, and in the distance you can hear the quiet but powerful sound of centuries-old ice melting.
Welcome to Jostedalsbreen, Europe's largest continental glacier and the jewel of Norway's national park. It is the perfect place to safely and comfortably experience glacier hiking, see the breathtaking power of nature with your own eyes, and take photos that will become your personal symbol of an incredible adventure.
🧭 Why Jostedalsbreen?
Jostedalsbreen National Park is one of the few places in the world where you can get so close to glaciers, and they are safe and you can take amazing photos of them. Here you can find walks of all levels of difficulty, from easy walks to serious glacier climbs.
Even beginners can feel like real ice explorers thanks to experienced local guides and carefully prepared routes.
🚗 How to get there and choose a base for hiking
The easiest way to get to Jostedalsbreen is to drive to the small village of Jostedalen, which is located in a pretty valley right at the foot of the glacier. You can get here by car or bus from the towns of Sognadal or Strøna.
This is where you will find the Jostedalsbreen tourist centre and the starting points for routes to the famous Nigardsbreen and Briksdalsbreen glacier tongues. Here you can also get advice from guides, rent equipment and book a tour.
Tip: Make sure you book a guided tour before you go (especially if you're going in July or August).
🥾 Route 1: Classic trek to the Nigardsbreen glacier (3–4 hours)
The track starts from the car park at Lake Nigardsbrevatnet, where you will already get your first amazing view of the glacier. After a short safety talk and equipment check (crampons, helmets and ice axes are provided), you will take a short boat trip across the lake.
When you get to the bottom of the glacier, your guide will attach a safety harness to the group and lead you along a specially prepared safe route. Every step is a real discovery: you will look into deep ice wells, examine incredibly beautiful crevasses and enjoy the unearthly blue of the ice.
At the top of the route, stop and take in the amazing views of the valley, and take a photo to remember the moment.
🥾 Route 2: Scenic walk to Briksdalsbreen Glacier (2–3 hours)
The route to Briksdalbreen is perfect for families and beginners. A wide, well-prepared road takes you past noisy mountain rivers and waterfalls straight to the foot of one of Norway's most famous glaciers.
At the glacier, there is a safe and comfortable viewing platform where you can take stunning photos. If you want, you can also go on a short trip directly to the edge of the glacier. There, a guide will explain how glaciers are formed and show you the most impressive ice formations.
⚠️ Preparation and safety on the glacier
Travelling on a glacier is an incredible experience that requires minimal preparation and adherence to safety rules. Here are some basic recommendations:
- Never go out on the ice alone — always choose tours with professional local guides.
- Use the right equipment (crampons, ice axe, safety harness) — everything you need will be provided on site.
- Wear waterproof and windproof clothing, and don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen (the sun's reflection on the ice is very bright).
- Be careful and follow all the guide's instructions — glaciers are alive and constantly changing.
📸 Best places for photos
Jostedalsbreen is a real open-air photo studio:
- Blue ice caves and tunnels (Blue Ice tour) — fantastic shades and ice formations.
- Viewpoints near the Briksdalsbreen and Nigardsbreen glaciers — ideal for panoramic shots.
- Lake Nigardsbrevatnet — beautiful reflections of the glacier in the mirror-like surface of the water.
- Kleivafossen Waterfall — mesmerising photos of rushing water and ice walls.
Tip: don't forget to bring a power bank — cold weather quickly drains batteries.
🛌 Where to stay
- Jostedal Hotel — a cosy family hotel with a restaurant and a warm atmosphere.
- Nigardsbreen Lodge — a traditional Norwegian cottage with views of the glacier.
- Jostedal Camping — an excellent budget option with amenities and magnificent views.
🎒 What to bring
- Comfortable waterproof shoes with sturdy soles.
- A warm jacket and gloves (the temperature on the glacier can change dramatically).
- A backpack with a thermos and snacks.
- A camera or smartphone with a good camera.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
Trekking on the Jostedalsbreen glacier is an amazing journey that everyone should experience at least once. Here, you will experience the power and beauty of nature in its pure state. You will take photos that will make you proud and have an experience that you will want to talk about again and again.
Jostedalsbreen is not just a glacier; it is a special chance to feel like you are part of a wonderful icy world and to experience the eternity of the glacier.
This will be one of the most memorable outdoor adventures you've ever had in Norway!
