Travel Guide to Jotunheimen national park, hiking
Explore the stunning landscapes of Jotunheimen National Park, a hiker's paradise in the heart of Norway, filled with majestic peaks and diverse wildlife.
A brief summary to Jotunheimen national park, hiking
- Lom, NO
Discover the Majestic Jotunheimen National Park
Jotunheimen National Park, often referred to as the 'Home of the Giants', is a stunning expanse of rugged terrain located in central Norway. This breathtaking park is renowned for its majestic mountains, including the famous Galdhøpiggen, the highest peak in Northern Europe. Hikers flock to the park for its extensive network of trails that weave through lush valleys, past sparkling glacial lakes, and up challenging ascents that reward with panoramic views. The diverse landscapes offer something for everyone, from leisurely strolls to exhilarating climbs, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to its awe-inspiring scenery, Jotunheimen is home to a rich variety of wildlife and plant species. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for reindeer, foxes, and a multitude of bird species that thrive in this pristine environment. The flora here is equally impressive, with alpine flowers blooming vibrantly during the short summer season, creating a stunning contrast against the stark mountain backdrop. Visitors to Jotunheimen National Park can also engage in various activities beyond hiking, such as fishing in its crystal-clear lakes, kayaking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds them. With its breathtaking landscapes and abundant outdoor activities, Jotunheimen National Park remains a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Norway’s natural splendor.
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months for the best hiking conditions and to witness the vibrant alpine flowers.
- Consider hiring a local guide for challenging trails to ensure safety and enrich your experience with local knowledge.
- Pack layers, as the weather can change rapidly, and be prepared for both sun and rain while hiking.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as some trails can be long and remote with limited facilities.
- Respect the environment by sticking to marked trails and carrying out all waste.
Getting There
-
Car
To reach Jotunheimen National Park by car, start from the nearest major city, Lom. From Lom, drive east on County Road 55 (Sognefjellsvegen) for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the park entrance. Look for signs indicating Jotunheimen National Park. Ensure that your vehicle is equipped for mountain driving, especially in winter months, as conditions can be challenging.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Jotunheimen National Park using public transportation, take a bus from Oslo to Lom. The bus ride takes about 5-6 hours and is operated by NOR-WAY Bussekspress. Once you arrive in Lom, you can either walk or take a local taxi to the park entrance, which is about 5 km away. Be sure to check the bus schedules ahead of time for the latest departure times.
-
Hiking
Once in Jotunheimen National Park, there are numerous hiking trails to choose from. A popular starting point is the Besseggen Ridge hike. To reach the Besseggen trailhead from Lom, drive or take a taxi to Gjendesheim. The trailhead is well-marked, and you can enjoy stunning views of the lakes and mountains. Make sure to carry a detailed map of the area, wear appropriate hiking gear, and check local weather conditions before starting your hike.
-
Additional Transportation
If you plan to hike deeper into the park, consider taking a shuttle bus from Lom to various trailheads within the park. Shuttles operate during the summer months and can help you access trails that are further away. This service may incur additional costs, so confirm pricing and schedules when you arrive.
Attractions Nearby to Jotunheimen national park, hiking
-
NASJONAL TURISTVEG Sognefjellet - SCENIC ROUTE Geiranger – Sognefjellet - START/END
-
Lom Rural Museum
-
Lom bygdamuseun
-
Fossheim Steinsenter
-
Waterfall lookout
-
Natursti for barn
-
Norwegian fjellsenter
-
Bovra Beach
-
Lom stavkyrkje
-
Utsiktplats
-
Klimapark 2469
-
Wilhelm Rasmussen Sagasøyla Statue
-
Galdhøpiggen
-
Jotunheimen
-
Veo bridge
Landmarks nearby to Jotunheimen national park, hiking
-
NASJONAL TURISTVEG Sognefjellet - SCENIC ROUTE Geiranger – Sognefjellet - START/END
-
Lom Rural Museum
-
Lom bygdamuseun
-
Visit Jotunheimen AS
-
Fossheim Steinsenter
-
Waterfall lookout
-
Norwegian fjellsenter
-
Bovra Beach
-
Lom stavkyrkje
-
Juvasshytta
-
Klimapark 2469
-
Aktiv i lom
-
Galdhøpiggen Summer Ski Centre
-
Spiterstulen Turisthytte
-
Wilhelm Rasmussen Sagasøyla Statue