Fantastic nature experiences await you. But where do you start? Here are the tips you need for a great and safe trip.
“At DNT we meet many experienced outdoor enthusiasts, but one of the things that makes me happiest is meeting people who have just discovered the joy of hiking. It’s wonderful to hear them talk about their nature experiences,” says Anne-Mari Planke, Head of Outdoor Life at the Norwegian Trekking Association.
“Just think about the sense of achievement we feel when we use our bodies and senses, challenge ourselves, and learn something new. Spending time in nature is simply good for both body and soul.”
Just being in nature can provide a better quality of life
Anne Marie Planke
Nature right outside your door
Norwegian nature offers something for everyone. If you dream of big mountain adventures, famous hikes like Besseggen, Kjeragbolten, or the peaks of Romsdalen are waiting for you.
But don’t forget the many wonderful hiking opportunities close to home. In Norway, most people have great outdoor experiences right outside their front door.
The close hikes can provide great nature experiences.
“At DNT we encourage local outdoor experiences. They require little planning and equipment, and you can go for a hike even on a regular Tuesday. Local trips are also environmentally friendly – and they can be almost free,” says Planke.
If you are new to hiking, it is often wise to start small. As you gain more experience and confidence, you can gradually aim for longer and more challenging trips.
At the end of this article you will find suggestions for some of the most popular and beautiful hikes in the mountains, forests, and along the coast. On UT.no you will also find hundreds of hiking suggestions and an overview of the more than 600 DNT cabins across Norway.
Many cabins allow you to book a bed or room in advance, and in some places you can even reserve an entire cabin.
About the DNT cabins
DNT has 600 cabins across the norwegian mountains, forests, and coastline. Here you can learn about the different types of cabins, how the system works, and find practical information on how to use them.
A nature experience is best when you feel safe. Safety should always come first, especially on longer hikes.
“Read the route description carefully and start with the Norwegian Mountain Code. Ask yourself: Do I have the knowledge, experience, and physical fitness to do this hike today?” advises Anne-Mari Planke.
In Norway, the weather can change quickly – even during summer. A hike that begins in sunshine may end in heavy rain or dense fog. That is why it is important to bring extra clothing and food in your backpack.
“Always bring your mobile phone and preferably a power bank. If you have the Hjelp 113 emergency app, rescue teams can locate you more easily if you need help. But remember that phones can run out of battery, break, or lose coverage. Regular hikers should learn how to use a map and compass, and have basic first aid knowledge,” says Planke.
Planning your trip carefully is especially important if you are travelling in avalanche-prone terrain.
Always plan your trip well, especially if it is in avalanche-prone terrain.
Travel insurance makes your trip safer
It is also a good idea to have travel insurance, even when travelling within Norway.
“Many people mainly think about travel insurance when travelling abroad. But travel insurance applies from the moment you leave your home. It covers you and your belongings on the bus, in the park, by the sea, and in the mountains,” says Anne Stake Løvdahl, Product Manager at Gjensidige.
Travel insurance helps you if, for example, you need to:
Cancelling a booked trip or cabin/hotel due to an acute illness or accident.
Buying new tickets due to a delay or cancellation.
Repair or buy a new mobile. Will your mobile phone be broken during the trip? Or stolen? In this case, it will be repaired or replaced respectively for a deductible of NOK 1,000.
As a DNT member, you can receive a discount on travel insurance with Gjensidige. Members can get up to 26% discount on their Travel Plus insurance, as well as additional discounts if several insurance policies are combined.
The most expensive equipment is not always the best
Norwegians are known for their interest in outdoor gear and clothing.
But the most important thing is that your equipment is functional. And that doesn't always mean 'the latest and most expensive', Planke emphasizes.
“Invest in good hiking shoes and a backpack that fits comfortably. Much of the rest can be bought second-hand, borrowed from friends, or rented from equipment lending centres, which are available in many places across the country.”
Drømmer du om topptur i sommer? Prøv en av Norges mange fjellrygger. Noen er superbratte og setter psyken på prøve, andre kan gås selv for deg med høydeskrekk. Her er fem fine toppturer.
Endelig er det på tide å planlegge sesongens toppturer. Nybegynner eller ekspert, med eller uten barn; toppturentusiast Eivind Eidslott har plukket ut fem av sine ypperste favoritter.
