Aurlandsdalen Valley - Norway's Most Beautiful Hike

Take the historic hike down the beautiful Aurlandsdalen this fall. The hike is often referred to as "Norway's Grand Canyon" and is listed high on many people's bucket lists.

From the Mountain to the fjord - The landscape is among the most beautiful in the Norwegian mountain ranges, with majestic waterfalls plunging down steep cliffs into an area known for its rich and unique fauna.

Getting to Aurlandsdalen
 

The easiest way to reach Aurlandsdalen is by taking the train from Bergen or Oslo to Myrdal Station, then the Flåm Railway to Flåm, and finally a bus to Aurlandsdalen. You can also take the Norled express boat from Bergen to Aurland, and then a bus to Aurlandsdalen. If you’re driving, you can park in Flåm or Aurland and take the bus to Aurlandsdalen. Norway's Best operates a daily bus service to Aurlandsdalen from June to October. Find the schedule here.

The hike starts at Østerbø, 820 meters above sea level, and ends at Vassbygdi, 80 meters above sea level.

Aurlandsdalen begins at Finse station, 1222 meters above sea level, and continues through several stages, but this article focuses on the last stage from Østerbø to Vassbygdi in Aurland.

The hike from Østerbø to Vassbygdi takes you through truly stunning nature along gorges and ravines, through imposing mountain formations. The terrain is not technically challenging but does include some steep descents and passes through wet marshland. Some sections are exposed, but most have wires for support.
 

You can find the hike on ut.no – click here.

Route Description

Hiking Aurlandsdalen from Østerbø to Vassbygdi is just under 19 km, and you should allow between 6-8 hours of walking. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. The hiking season runs from June to the end of October, and if you plan to hike outside of this season, you should check conditions before setting out.

It’s always important to check the weather forecast before your hike.

Hiking Tips

Bring: Plenty of food, trekking poles if you have bad knees, extra clothes like wool and a warm jacket, a first aid kit, toilet paper, map, and compass.
Wear good shoes, as it can be wet, and you’ll need to cross some small rivers. Safety is important in the Norwegian mountains—following the Mountain Safety Code will help you plan and complete your hike. Read the Mountain Safety Code here.

There is no mobile coverage between Vetlahelvete and Vassbygdi.

Weekend in Flåm

Consider combining a hike in Aurlandsdalen with a stay in Flåm for a complete and unique experience. Bring your friends, colleagues, or family to Flåm and stay at the historic Fretheim Hotel, where local food is the foundation of the hotel's dining concept. Book your stay here.

Wangen Apartments - Fjord Resort

Combine the hike in Aurlandsdalen with a comfortable stay by the fjord in Aurland, at Wangen Apartments.

Special offers in September and October – click on this link or click the box below.