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Jotunheimen National Park, Norge - Things to Do in Jotunheimen National Park

Jotunheimen National Park

Jotunheimen National Park, Norge - Complete Travel Guide

Jotunheimen National Park, known as the 'Home of the Giants,' is Norway's premier mountain wilderness and one of Europe's most spectacular alpine destinations. Located in south-central Norway, this 1,151-square-kilometer park encompasses the country's highest peaks, including Galdhøpiggen (2,469m) and Glittertind (2,464m), along with pristine glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and dramatic valleys that have inspired Norwegian folklore for centuries. The park offers unparalleled hiking opportunities ranging from gentle valley walks to challenging glacier crossings, with a well-maintained network of mountain huts operated by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). Jotunheimen attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world who come to experience its raw Nordic beauty, traditional mountain culture, and some of the most rewarding trekking in Scandinavia. The park serves as a gateway to understanding Norway's deep connection with nature and the concept of 'friluftsliv' - the outdoor way of life.

Top Jotunheimen National Park

Hiking to Galdhøpiggen Summit

Conquer Norway's highest peak at 2,469 meters above sea level through a challenging but rewarding day hike. The journey offers impressive panoramic views of glaciers, peaks, and valleys stretching to the horizon. This iconic climb is considered a must-do for serious hikers visiting Norway.

Booking Tip: Book guided glacier tours (400-600 NOK) through Jotunheimen Travel or local operators from June to September. Best attempted in July-August for optimal weather conditions. Look for operators providing glacier equipment and certified mountain guides.

Besseggen Ridge Hike

Experience Norway's most famous hiking trail along a dramatic knife-edge ridge between the emerald Gjende lake and the deep blue Bessvatnet. This 17-kilometer trek offers spectacular views and is considered one of the world's most beautiful day hikes. The trail features the famous Besseggen ridge where you'll walk between two distinctly colored lakes.

Booking Tip: Reserve boat transport across Gjende lake (150-200 NOK each way) well in advance during peak season (July-August). Start early (7-8 AM) to avoid crowds and ensure boat connections. No guide needed but check weather conditions carefully.

Glacier Walking and Ice Climbing

Explore the pristine glaciers of Jotunheimen with professional guides who provide equipment and instruction for safe glacier travel. Experience the otherworldly beauty of crevasses, ice formations, and blue glacier ice. Advanced options include ice climbing on frozen waterfalls during winter months.

Booking Tip: Book glacier walking tours (800-1200 NOK) through certified operators like Jotunheimen Breførerlag from June to September. All equipment provided but bring warm layers. Winter ice climbing courses (1500-2000 NOK) available December-March.

Mountain Hut to Hut Trekking

start multi-day treks using the extensive network of DNT mountain huts, experiencing traditional Norwegian mountain hospitality. Stay in historic stone huts with communal dining and shared experiences with fellow hikers. Popular routes include the classic Gjendesheim to Memurubu trek and longer circuits around the park's major peaks.

Booking Tip: Purchase DNT membership (500 NOK annually) for significant hut discounts. Book hut beds (300-500 NOK per night for members) in advance for July-August. Bring sleeping bag liner and consider half-board meal options (200-300 NOK).

Wildlife Photography and Northern Lights

Discover Jotunheimen's diverse wildlife including reindeer, arctic foxes, and golden eagles while capturing the park's dramatic landscapes. During winter months, the park offers excellent opportunities for Northern Lights photography away from light pollution. Summer brings midnight sun photography opportunities with endless golden hour lighting.

Booking Tip: Join photography workshops (1000-1500 NOK) during shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) for best wildlife activity and fewer crowds. Winter Northern Lights tours (800-1200 NOK) run October-March. Bring telephoto lens and sturdy tripod.

Getting There

Jotunheimen National Park is accessible via several gateway towns, with Lillehammer (2 hours by train from Oslo) serving as the main transportation hub. From Lillehammer, take buses operated by Oppland Kollektivtrafikk to towns like Gjendesheim, Spiterstulen, or Lom, which serve as trailheads into the park. Alternatively, rent a car in Oslo or Lillehammer for maximum flexibility, as many trailheads are only accessible by private vehicle or infrequent bus services during summer months.

Getting Around

Transportation within Jotunheimen relies primarily on hiking, as no roads cross the park's interior. Boat services operate on lakes Gjende and Bygdin during summer months (June-September), providing crucial links for popular hiking routes like Besseggen. Local bus services connect major trailheads and gateway towns, but schedules are limited and seasonal. Most visitors use the park's extensive network of marked hiking trails and DNT mountain huts, with distances between huts typically ranging from 4-8 hours of hiking.

Where to Stay

Gjendesheim (park gateway)
Spiterstulen (high mountain access)
Lom (historic stave church town)
Boverdalen valley
Vågå (cultural center)
Lillehammer (main hub)

Food & Dining

Dining in Jotunheimen centers around mountain huts serving traditional Norwegian fare including hearty stews, fresh fish, and locally sourced game meats. The DNT huts offer communal dining experiences with set menus featuring dishes like reindeer, cloudberry desserts, and warming soups perfect after long hiking days. Gateway towns like Lom and Vågå feature restaurants specializing in regional cuisine, while many visitors opt for self-catering using hut kitchens or camping equipment, purchasing supplies in larger towns before entering the park.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Norway

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Mamma Pizza

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Riviera Restaurant & Bar

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Girotondo

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Ruffino

4.7 /5
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Mamma Pizza Vika Osteria di Mare

4.5 /5
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Basso Social - Oslo

4.5 /5
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When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Jotunheimen is from late June through early September when hiking trails are snow-free and mountain huts are fully operational. July and August offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, but also the largest crowds and highest accommodation prices. Shoulder seasons (late May-June and September) provide excellent hiking conditions with fewer visitors, though some high-altitude trails may still have snow patches. Winter visits (December-April) are possible for experienced mountaineers and cross-country skiers, offering Northern Lights viewing opportunities and pristine snow conditions.

Insider Tips

Purchase a DNT membership before arrival for significant savings on mountain hut accommodation and access to detailed trail maps
Pack layers and waterproof gear even in summer, as mountain weather can change rapidly from sunshine to snow
Book the Besseggen boat transport and popular mountain huts well in advance for July-August visits, as they fill up months ahead

Activities in Jotunheimen National Park