Hiking in Norway: Everything You Need to Know

When to Go

When traveling to Norway, you should prepare for a variety of climates and temperatures. Precipitation and cool weather are commonplace due to Norway’s coastal landscape. Rainfall is the highest on the west coast near Bergen. This moisture creates vibrant green colors and allows a variety of plant life to grow in the region. Further inland, the climate is noticeably more dry and predictable.

Due to the extreme north-south length of the country, you can expect to experience warmer temperatures towards the south and colder weather in the north towards the Lofoten Islands and beyond. Despite Norway being situated far north on the globe, it is located next to the Gulf Stream – a warm ocean current. This current makes the country’s average temperatures much milder than one might expect.

High Season

Summer, from June to August, is the high season for visiting Norway. Over the last five years, summers have been getting warmer, so you can expect summer temperatures to stay around 60-70º Fahrenheit,  with occasional jumps into the ’80s. However, don’t forget to take into account which region in Norway you will be visiting. Depending on which part of the country you’re in, you’ll find slight differences in average temperatures.

The summer months are an ideal time to enjoy all of the outdoor activities Norway has to offer. The mountains usually become accessible in early to mid-July, as the remaining winter snows melt. During this time, the coastal and inland areas also become warmer. If you plan to be in the mountains, remember that the weather can change very quickly. You might sunny warm days mixed with windy, cold, rainy days. Additionally, some days may provide a mixture of weather — from occasional showers to warm temperatures and sun. On average, the weather is the most stable in July and August when the rain falls less.

What’s more, thanks to the country’s extreme northern position, summer has a period of time when the sun does not set. This natural phenomenon, known as the “Midnight Sun,” is more pronounced the farther north you travel.

Shoulder Season

Shoulder season consists of both fall (September-November) and spring (March-May.)

Fall offers a cozy and colorful environment: as the leaves change, rich variations of gold and red colored leaves coat the forest floors. Spring offers the birth of wildflowers, fruit trees, and gushing waterfalls as the snowmelt gives life to the landscape. Additionally, Norway will emerge from the long, dark days of winter.  More daylight gives way to more adventuring (and warmer temperatures.)

Both fall and spring overlap with summer and winter activities. For example, you can find good skiing at the beginning of spring, with the benefit of warmer days and more sunlight. In the mountains, snow can fall as early as September, blocking trail access. Or, other years, snow doesn’t fall until November, allowing you to explore stunning views of the autumn forests without needing to travel on snow.

In these shoulder seasons, you should expect less predictable weather, as temperatures vary significantly throughout each season. However, don’t let this deter you. Viewing nature’s magic in the changing seasons offers a unique and enriching experience, with significantly reduced crowds.

Low Season

Spanning December through February, the low season transforms Norway into a winter wonderland of snow. Temperatures often hover around 20-30º Fahrenheit but vary depending on how far north or south and how far inland you are. No matter your location, Norway is world-renowned for its cross country skiing, downhill skiing, and dog sledding.

Unlike the summer, the winter days are fairly short. In the far northern regions, the sun does not rise for some time towards the end of January. One perk to the long nights and cooler temps is the Aurora Borealis – often called the Northern Lights. If you want to improve your chances of viewing this magnificent dance of electrical charge across the sky, travel north. The temperatures become more cool and dry towards midwinter, allowing for this magical display of lights.

Deeper Dive: More About When to Visit

Natural Phenomena

As mentioned above, a unique phenomenon that occurs in the summer is the “Midnight Sun” or a “polar day.” This phenomenon, when the sun never sets or falls below the horizon, occurs across the country during the summer months. The earth’s tilt and rotation align during this time, pointing the northern hemisphere towards the sun. The further north you go, the more days without night you will experience. During this magical time, you’ll soak in the alpine glow as light casts a soft gold and cotton candy pink and purple color across the landscape during dusk and dawn.

Another phenomenon that is prevalent in northern Norway is the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. This phenomenon occurs as charged particles in the earth’s atmosphere collide, causing a spectrum of colors that appear to dance across the sky. This beautiful sight is something that only occurs in very far north or very south regions of the globe.

Trip Dates

We offer a select few trips to Norway every year, so be sure to book your spot in advance. Head to our Trip Dates Page to view which trips we have scheduled; they are organized by month. When you select the month you’re interested in, scroll down to “N” for Norway, and look at your options. If Norway isn’t listed, it means we don’t have any trips scheduled for that particular month.

Weather Information

We very seldom cancel trips due to weather. Therefore, keep a close eye on the forecast during the weeks and days leading up to your trip to ensure that you’re properly prepared! Once you know what weather to expect, make sure you pack appropriate clothes so you’re comfortable in all potential conditions.

Wildland Trips by Month

Need to Know

Primary Starting City For Norway Adventures

All Lofoton lodge-based trips will convene in Bodo, Norway, and all hut-to-hut trekking trips will meet in Oslo, Norway.

If you’re heading out for a lodge-based trip, you’ll find that navigating Bodo is extremely easy. Once you have arrived, you will meet up with your guide and group at the Bryggerkaia restaurant in Bodo around 3:30 pm. This restaurant is conveniently located next to the airport, a quick 3-minute taxi ride or a 15-minute walk away. You should land no later than 2:30 pm on the first day of your trip.

Hut-to-Hut trekkers will have the opportunity to explore Norway’s capital city, Oslo, before heading out on your adventure. You’ll meet your guide approximately 1.5 hours before the first day’s bus ride out to your hike.

We highly recommend arriving in Norway a day early if you’re able. This extra time will allow for a buffer for any flight or travel interruptions, as well as help you recover from jet-lag. Trust us, you will not regret the extra time to feel more adjusted, rested, and relaxed.

Booking Advice

Be sure to register as soon as possible; trips fill up fast. When you are ready to register online, click on the green dates on the dates section of the trip page.

Any dates listed in blue must be reserved by emailing our customer service team. In this process, we confirm the availability of the trip you want and minimize any booking hiccups along the way.

Keep in mind that children 12 and older may join standard groups on scheduled tours. However, children 5-12 years of age will need to be a part of a private tour with separate logistical requirements judged on a case-by-case basis. Please feel free to direct any questions to our customer service team who are available to answer help you 7 days a week!

Transportation

Please keep in mind that accommodations before and after the trip – and transportation to the starting city – are not included in the cost of your tour. But don’t worry! It is very straightforward to arrange both lodging and accommodation in Norway, and we’re certain that you’ll love the opportunity to explore a new country.

Norway has very reliable standard public transportation. For many Norwegians, buses, trains, and ferries are common ways to travel in daily life, so these services are extremely well managed. They are clean, up to standard, and very timely. If you are going to use these public options, be timely and efficient — they will not wait for you!

Lodging

Norway’s lodging is highly valued for its feeling of “koselig”-ness. This Norwegian word means a blend of “cozy” and “homey.” Unlike the United States and other countries, privacy in shared spaces is not as important in Norwegian society.

Norwegian cabins or “rorbuers” — refurnished fishermen’s cabins — often have shared bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces with separate bedrooms. These bedrooms are often bunk-style. Unless there is an option to book a single room, you can expect to share space with your fellow travelers.

When you stay in this type of lodging, all are encouraged to cozy up in shared spaces and feel at home. Board games, drinks, and a good book are common ways to enjoy cabin life during poor weather. Candles are a must – otherwise, the “koselig” factor decreases significantly.

Visa Information for Norway

Norway is a member of the European Schengen Zone. This means that your 90-day visa – which is granted upon arrival with no pre-application required – is also valid for all members of the Schengen zone. Such a system makes it very easy to include a stopover in one or more other countries while you’re on the far side of the Atlantic! We recommend you consult the U.S. Department of State for the most up-to-date travel information and advisories.

Phones, Wifi, and Electricity

Norway has excellent cell phone service, but certain portions of the mountains will not have reliable service. The cabins for hiking hut to hut vary in terms of wifi access. Some have wifi while others don’t — and generally, it is not very reliable if you need it.

You will need a European adapter in order to charge your electronics in Norway.

Deeper Dive: More Need to Know Info

Language

Naturally, Norwegian is the primary spoken language in Norway. But don’t fret! The vast majority of Norwegians are fluent in English and will be very willing to help you with directions, should you need it.

Trip Insurance

Life is uncertain, and that is part of what makes travel so great. Discovering the unknown of new culture and landscape makes traveling so thrilling. On the other hand, we never know what may happen at home or abroad. Preparation and safety are key ingredients to a worry-free trip, so we highly recommend purchasing insurance for field evacuation, repatriation, and medical emergencies. Travel insurance is a small cost compared to the overall expense of an international trip and can have great rewards when we most need them.

More information about our international travel policies can be found on our Trip Insurance Page.

If you wish to purchase insurance through other providers, please consult with the provider to make sure you will be getting the coverage you need, as many other providers have policy exclusions.

Packing List

Norway is a coastal country, therefore, it is wise to prepare for all conditions as rain and adverse weather are common. Sturdy hiking boots, rainwear, non-cotton base layers, and wool or synthetic hiking socks are essential. These layers, paired with a fleece or warmer mid-layer, will help keep you warm and dry!

Moreover, a water bottle, bug repellent, sunscreen, and other toiletry items will be your responsibility to bring. If you need to purchase some items, please refer to Wildland Trekking Outfitters to acquire any gear items you may need.

Lastly, keep an eye out for the trip packet, which will be emailed to you upon registration. This packet will include a recommended clothing list and more detailed information about other recommended packing essentials and gear.

Permits and Maps

You do not need a permit to hike in Norway. The “free to roam” rule prohibits this.

You can purchase hiking maps locally in Norway for your trip, but keep in mind the maps will be in kilometers and meters so reading the maps will be different than USGS maps in the USA. We also recommend you download the apps NorgesKart and UT.no onto your mobile device if you prefer an electronic map. Paper maps to consider for your trip include:

Jotunheimen Hut to Hut Tour

DNT – Jotunheimen Aust 1:50,000 Turkart (for 4 days of the trip)
DNT – Jotunheimen Vest 1:50,000 Turkart (for 1 day of the trip)
Nærøyfjorden 1:50,000 Turkart (for 1 day of the trip)

Lofoten Inn-Based Tour

DNT – Vest Lofoten 1:50,000 Turkart
DNT – Vestvågøy 1:50,000 Turkart
DNT – Vågan 1:50,000 Turkart

Overview Map

DNT – Lofoten 1: 100,000 Turkart

water

You can drink the water from any tap in Norway. There is no need to buy bottled water, bring your favorite water bottle and continue to fill it up! Norwegian hikers do not treat their water in the mountains but drink directly from streams and creeks. Norwegian water is known for its purity and excellence!

traditional Food

Norwegian food culture is largely based on traditional food. Norway was very poor until the 1970s when oil was discovered on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. Therefore, many traditional foods are based on local, hearty, and easy-to-grow foods that farmers grew themselves. Potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic make up most of the vegetable scene, and hefty meats such as lamb, cow, reindeer, and moose make up the meat scene. Traditional sauces are poured over the meal to make them delicious, with some freshly pickled lingonberries on top.

Fish is another common Norwegian dish, and you will eat a lot of it if you visit Lofoten. You can expect to eat seafood fresh from each morning’s catch. You may also consider trying whale meat (it is available and regulated in Norway) and Stockfish, the traditional way of drying and preserving cod in the north of Norway.

Fresh apples, pears, and plums grow readily in Norway, and you can expect them in your dessert alongside wild strawberries, blackberries, and cloudberries (Yes, cloudberries. Just wait until you try them!) Although the food culture in Norway is limited in terms of variety, the farm-to-table availability is truly stunning. If you value sustainable food from local farms, Norway is the place to get it.

Last but not least, we need to talk about the Norwegian “Matpakke”. This is lunch for 95% of Norwegians. It consists of open-faced slices of bread with a single slice of cheese, or a single slice of meat on each piece. This is how Norwegians have eaten lunch for generations. Be prepared to be amused, they cannot break from this ingrained habit.

dietary needs

Special dietary needs are not as common outside of the big cities in Norway. At restaurants, your Wildland guide will ensure the server knows about your dietary restrictions in advance, but it is important to check in with your guide or your server to make sure your needs can be met. Being vegetarian or vegan while traveling in Norway can be challenging, as much of the traditional food is meat or fish-based. Gluten-free, lactose-free and other restrictions are also not as common in Norway, but when you have an allergy such as those named above, the restaurant business is ready to support you. Double-check with your guide and server at each meal, but there will be alternatives available for you.

Your servers and guides can work together to find a good solution no matter your dietary restrictions. Just be open to the food presented to you — it will be delicious, if simple. Don’t expect too many leafy vegetables while traveling in Norway, meat and hearty veggies are the backbone of Norwegian food culture.

Grocery Shopping

Norway, again, is a bit limited in this regard compared to the United States. Stores are small with little variety and contain very little ready-to-eat foods. However, the simplicity of the stores makes your choices easier! If you have a food intolerance or dietary restriction, you will have a limited number of snacks available to you for hiking. If you have specific hiking snacks you enjoy eating while on trail, please bring them. You won’t find the hiking snacks, such as bars (Clif bars, Probars, Larabars or the like). Nuts and trail mix are available but will be expensive!

Responsible Trekking and Cultural Considerations

The mountain culture in Norway is accessible and available to everyone. Generally, the rules are the same as other mountain areas. For example, please follow the 7 Leave No Trace principles.

• Plan Ahead & Prepare.
• Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces.
• Dispose of Waste Properly.
• Leave What You Find.
• Minimize Campfire Impacts.
• Respect Wildlife.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors.

Norwegians value silence in the mountains. Being loud or disturbing others, playing music or being disruptive to the general hiking population is seen as rude and obtrusive.

a. LNT

Historically, Norway has had a small population of people with a vast amount of natural space to roam. The ecosystem in Norway is robust with high amounts of rain and strong soil for biodegradation. Tourism just began to boom in Norway the last 5-7 years, and with the high influx of tourists, the landscape is facing a much higher impact. Norway is still discovering how to manage the large numbers of tourist to keep the ecosystems intact and pristine. Its our responsibility as guests in this country to act as good role models by following Leave No Trace (LNT) guidelines and encouraging others to do the same. Norwegian culture has a strong tone for doing what is best for everyone and following the rules in place- therefore Wildland International Trips will follow LNT principles by leaving the space better or the same as we found it.

b. Cultural/Religion/Customs

Norway is a largely Christian country, but there is no dominant religion or religious rules in society travelers need to be aware of. Culturally, it is generally considered polite in Norway to “not disturb others”. Whether that is how loud you are speaking in a public place, talking on the phone on the bus, or sitting too close to someone when you could sit further away. Norwegians tend to be more reserved and quiet. For Americans, it can appear rude or uninterested, but this is normal socially in Norway. Norwegians can be direct, to the point and straightforward. Making conversation, greeting or waving at a stranger is deemed odd in Norway. Feel free to be yourself, but Norwegians will classify you as the outgoing tourist- which most likely you are! Ah, also, nudity is not as sexualized as in the United States. You will likely see a few people bathing naked in the ocean, alpine lake or river – this is completely acceptable and a normal part of being out on a trip. Alsok highly respected. Going for a sauna, or just finished a long hike? Get ready to jump in glacial water- the Norwegians will respect you for it!

c. Staff/Porter treatment

In any culture, anywhere in the world, staff and porters should be treated with respect and dignity. In Norway, you can treat your local Guide as you would your Wildland Trekking guide.

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Join Wildland Trekking in Norway

Wildland Trekking’s Norway tours are premier adventures to some of the very best hiking and trekking areas in Europe. Soak up amazing solitude as you discover not only stunning scenery but also a friendly, welcoming culture with a fascinating history.

Enjoy a Hut to Hut tour across mountains and dramatic fjords; or join us on a lodge-based trip dedicated to enjoying the splendor of the dramatic Lofoten Islands.

For more information about all your options, check out our Norway page on the website with the button below! Individual trip pages have detailed itineraries, trip specifics, travel information, and more.

See Main Norway Page!

Have more questions? Send us an email or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453). We’re here 7 days a week from 9:00 to 4:30 Mountain Time to make sure your trip planning goes as smoothly as possible.