❄️ Winter cross-country skiing: snowshoes in Rondane – Hardangervidda – Finse

Imagine walking across a snowy mountain plateau, with only the soft sound of your snowshoes crunching through the snow and your breath making a quiet noise in this winter wonderland. Snowy mountains are all around you, sparkling in the sun, and above you is a big blue sky with a few white clouds. This is winter cross-country skiing, a snowshoe route that connects three stunning national parks in Norway: Rondane, Hardangervidda and the Fjorde area.

Go on this amazing winter trip and feel totally free in the snow, where the only footprints you'll see are your own.

❄️ Why go on a winter hike through Norway's national parks?

Winter in Norway is a special time when nature becomes really beautiful and calm. The route through Røndane, Hardangervidda and Finse is a special chance to experience a snowy landscape that is not changed by people, far from the busy life of other people.

A snowshoe trip is a great way to get some exercise and be free to move around. You can explore places that are hard to reach, get close to nature and watch animals, and enjoy the winter landscapes.

📆 Choosing the season: when is the best time to go

The best time for snowshoeing on this route is from mid-February to the end of April. At this time of year, the snow is stable, the weather becomes clearer, and the days get longer and warmer. March is a great month for this, because by then the snow is usually at its best and there's a good chance of some sunny days.

Make sure you check the weather forecast on Yr.no and look at the avalanche risk map on Varsom.no.

🚆 How to get there: transport from Oslo to Fjørn

The route starts in the village of Fjørn, which has one of the highest railway stations in Norway (1,222 metres above sea level).

The easiest way to get to Fjørn from Oslo is by train on the Bergen Line (Bergensbanen). You can buy tickets on the Vy.no website. The journey takes about 4.5 hours, during which time you will already have time to enjoy the first mountain landscapes.

🗺️ Detailed itinerary for 5 days

✅ Day 1: Fjørn – Krækkja hut (10 km)

When you arrive in Fjørnfjord, go to the Krækkja hut. This first section is easy and perfect for getting used to snowshoes. On the way, you will see views of snowy mountains and frozen lakes. In the evening, you can light the stove in the self-catering hut, cook a hot dinner and relax after your first day on the trail.

✅ Day 2: Krækkja – Tuva hut (15 km)

The second day takes you across the snowy plains of Hardangervidda, Europe's largest mountain plateau. Here, you will feel like you are at the end of the world: all around you is a white horizon, endless sky and absolute silence. Tuva is a cosy hut where you can warm up in the evening with hot tea and dried reindeer meat while enjoying the atmosphere of being alone.

✅ Day 3: Tuva – Hainsetter hut (14 km)

This section of the route goes through rolling hills and snowy valleys. Here, you can see evidence of reindeer and other animals. The Heinseter hut is in a lovely spot surrounded by pine forests, which is perfect for an evening stroll.

✅ Day 4: Heinseter – Rondvassbu hut (18 km)

The fourth day is the most impressive. You will cross part of the Røndane National Park, which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Rondvassbu is one of Norway's most beautiful mountain huts. It is a cosy cabin in the mountains with great views of the surrounding mountains.

✅ Day 5: Rondvassbu – return to Fjørnøy (10 km)

On the last day of the route, the way back to Finse will be quick and easy. Today is the perfect day to enjoy the last of the winter wonderland and take some photos to remember the trip.

🎒 What to bring: complete gear list

• Reliable snowshoes and ski poles
• High winter boots with insulation
• Membrane jacket and trousers
• Thermal underwear and fleece clothing
• Warm hat, gloves and buff
• Sleeping bag and warm clothes for sleeping
• GPS navigator and map
• Thermos and stove for cooking
• Food supplies for the route (freeze-dried food, nuts, chocolate)
• Avalanche kit: sensor, shovel and probe (for safety in the mountains)
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (the sun reflects off the snow)
• Power bank for electronic devices
• First aid kit and hand and foot warmers

⚠️ Safety rules: how to travel in winter

• Always check the avalanche conditions on Varsom.no before setting out.
• Travel in a group or in pairs and do not stray far apart.
• Study the route in advance and have a backup plan in case the weather changes.
• Leave information about your route with friends or relatives.
• Only use marked routes and official DNT huts.

🛖 Self-service huts: cosiness in the snow

All the huts along the route have firewood, stoves and kitchen equipment. Travellers prepare their own food and keep the huts tidy. This is not only handy, but also creates a friendly atmosphere where tourists help each other out.

🧠 Conclusion: a winter you will remember for a lifetime

A winter trip on snowshoes through Rondane, Hardangervidda and Fjørland is a great way to experience the winter countryside. Here, you will experience a true winter wonderland, enjoy the freedom to move around, and create lasting memories.

Don't be afraid of the cold and snow. Go on a winter route where you can see the best of nature and every minute will be part of your adventure.

Let your trip be the perfect example of winter hiking trails in Norway and an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Norway!