Frequently Asked Questions About Norwegian Outdoor Life

Cabins

What is the difference between the cabins you have?

What is the difference between the types of cabins? We have three categories of cabins: staffed lodges, self-service cabins, and unserviced cabins. For a detailed overview, please visit our Cabins page.

Can I book cabins in advance?

It is possible to book beds at many self-service and unserviced cabins, but it is not strictly required. We ensure that everyone who reaches a cabin has a place to sleep. During the high season (Easter and summer), a cabin warden is often present at the most popular cabins to help organize sleeping arrangements.

Booking is mandatory at some staffed lodges (such as Sæteren Gård and Kobberhaughytta) and is advisable at others if you plan to stay for more than one night. Most staffed lodges offer online booking. For lodges without online booking, please contact them directly via email or telephone. See Booking for more information.

Are the cabins and lodges licensed to serve alcohol?

All DNT staffed lodges are licensed to serve beer, and most of the larger lodges, as well as private lodges in the trail network, are licensed to serve wine as well

Can I pay by credit card at the cabins?

Most staffed lodges have Point-Of-Sale (POS) terminals for debit and credit cards. When visiting a self-service or no-service DNT cabin, you can easily pay for accommodation and provisions using the DNT-app

When are the cabins open?

You can check opening dates for any cabin on UT.no. Most self-service and unserviced cabins are open year-round, but those in Jotunheimen, Skarvheimen, Hardangervidda, and certain other mountain areas are closed from October 15th until mid-February or early March. Staffed lodges are primarily open during the summer, though some also open for the winter season.

How can I get the key for the cabins?

The key can be purchased at DNT’s outdoor shops and tour information centres. Additionally, all staffed DNT lodges have keys available. You can find a full list of retail locations across Norway on the DNT online shop website.

Note: You must be a DNT member to purchase or borrow the key.

Planning Your Trip: Summer

How can I plan my trip and get the information I need?

How can I plan my trip and get the information I need? Use UT.no as your primary planning tool. There you will find an online map featuring all cabins and marked trails, updated opening dates, key requirements, and tour suggestions. (Please note: The site is currently in Norwegian; we recommend using a browser translator like Google Translate for assistance).

Are there bridges across the rivers?

Be aware that "summer bridges" are removed once the nearest staffed lodge closes for the season. While it may still be possible to hike in the off-season, crossing rivers without these bridges can be difficult and depends heavily on the weather.

Are there routes for cycling?

Yes. Most trekking areas below the tree line, and some above, offer cycling on roads closed to ordinary traffic. On larger lakes, scheduled boat services often accept bicycles, allowing you to traverse mountain areas by bike.

Are there easily accessible paddling waters?

Yes. Many lakes and rivers are suitable for canoeing and kayaking. Rental services are available at the most popular paddling destinations.

Is it easy to find your way?

Yes. Trails are marked with red "T"s painted on cairns and rock faces and are clearly indicated on maps. However, you should always carry a paper map and compass and know your exact location 

Do I need special gear?

You need weatherproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a comfortable backpack. If you are staying at DNT cabins, you do not need a sleeping bag—only a sleeping liner (also called a "hut sleeper"). The cabins provide duvets, blankets, pillows, and mattresses. Check our recommended packing lists for summer tours. 

How can i get to the mountains by public transport?

Several mountain areas and national parks are easily accessible by train or long-distance bus. Finse, located between Hardangervidda and Skarvheimen, is a perfect starting or ending point. Use www.entur.no to plan your journey

Planning the trip, winter:

Are there prepared ski tracks in the mountains?

No, there are no groomed (machine-cut) ski tracks in the high mountains. Instead, there are waymarked routes marked temporarily with tree branches ("twigs") or poles. These are not groomed, and most are only marked until Easter 

Is the weather harsh?

Norway's climate is milder than other regions at the same latitude due to the Gulf Stream. On a dry summer day, you might hike in a T-shirt and shorts. However, the weather is highly variable. Even from June to August, you must be prepared for sleet and snow. On glaciers, winter conditions can occur year-round.

Is the weather harsh?

- Norway is a coastal country warmed by the Gulf Stream of the Atlantic Ocean, so its climate is far milder than that of inland countries at the same latitude. On a dry summer day you may hike in only a T-shirt and shorts. However, the weather is variable. Even in summer, june - august, you should be prepared to cope with sleet and snow, and on glaciers you may meet winter conditions year-round.

Are there good maps available?

Yes. Detailed topographic maps (normally 1:50,000) are available for the entire country, along with special maps for popular trekking and boating areas. You can order these from dntbutikken.no.

What does DNT mean in English?

Den Norske Turistforening (DNT) translates best as "The Norwegian Trekking Association.

If I only visit for one trekking trip, do I need to join DNT?

DNT cabins are open to everyone, but members receive significant discounts. To access locked self-service huts, you must be a member. Generally, if you plan to stay more than three nights at staffed lodges, the membership pays for itself through the discounts. Members also receive discounts on outdoor gear at selected shops in Norway.

Can I get along speaking English?

Yes. English is taught in Norwegian schools from an early age. You can communicate in English with staff at the lodges and with most other trekkers. Additionally, map legends and many publications are bilingual.