Are you unsure how demanding a trip is? Most of DNT's guided tours are marked with both the target group and the difficulty level. We recommend reading the descriptions carefully to ensure you choose the trip that is right for you.
It is important to familiarize yourself with the grading. Pay particular attention to any requirements for specific skills or equipment. You should then assess your own ability based on the information provided.
Please note: These are general classifications. Terrain can be highly variable. For example, a summit hike may be short in distance but still be graded as "demanding" due to steep or technical terrain. Contact the organizing association for more detailed information.
Hiking, Skiing, and Summits
Easy
Simple day trips on marked trails, or events open to everyone.
Medium
Daily stages of up to 15 km, mostly on marked trails. Suitable for those used to hiking with a backpack and who are in good physical shape.
Demanding
Daily stages of up to approx. 25 km, partly off-trail. Suitable for those in good shape with previous mountain experience.
Extra demanding
Daily stages exceeding 25 km, often outside marked routes. Suitable for those in excellent physical condition with extensive mountain experience.
Backpacks and Pace
Participants carry their own gear (typically up to 8 kg in summer and 15 kg in winter). Groups are out all day, with an average hiking/skiing pace of about 3 km per hour.
Weather and driving conditions change quickly in the winter mountains. The twigs show the way, but no tracks are driven.
Important Information for Winter Tours
The winter mountains are beautiful but unpredictable. Even a "simple" ski trip can become demanding in challenging weather or snow conditions. In the mountains, trails are rarely groomed; you must be prepared to break your own tracks. While "twigs" (waymarkers) show the route, weather and visibility can change rapidly. Packing your backpack correctly and having the right equipment is essential for a safe and memorable experience.
Rowing and Paddling
Easy
Requires basic knowledge of weather, wind, currents, and boat traffic. Skill level equivalent to a basic sea kayaking course.
* - ** Highly sheltered - sheltered waters
Medium
Proficient in interpreting weather, wind, and currents. Skill level equivalent to a technical or activity leader course.
Some exposed waters
Demanding
Strong skills in navigating weather, wind, and currents. Skill level equivalent to an advanced or leadership course.
Exposed waters.
Extra demanding
Expert skills in all conditions. Equivalent to advanced supervisor courses. Very experienced.
Highly exposed waters
What Is Included on a DNT Guided Group Hike:
Qualified Leadership: Hiking itineraries led by certified tour leaders from DNT's regional member associations.
Premier Destinations: Excursions through Norway’s core mountain regions and established hiking destinations.
Local Expertise: Access to lesser-known trails and points of interest off the main tourist routes.
Advanced Routing: The opportunity to participate in more demanding mountain treks than would be feasible when hiking independently.
Social Community: The chance to meet other outdoor enthusiasts and participate in a shared hiking community.
Note: Most group hikes are conducted in Norwegian.
Easy
