Trolltunga, a cliff located in Odda, Norway, has become a popular tourist destination because of its breathtaking and terrifying views. The cliff is 700 meters above the valley below and 1,100 meters above sea level. This hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
However, due to its dangerous location and the fact that it can be difficult to reach, Trolltunga is not for the faint of heart. Visitors who are brave enough to make the climb will be rewarded with some of the most amazing views in Norway.
The views from Trolltunga are truly breathtaking, and the experience of standing on the edge of the cliff is both exhilarating and terrifying. If you’re looking for an adventure, Trolltunga is definitely worth a visit.
About Trolltunga (“Troll’s Tongue”)
If you have a spirit of adventure then there is one place on the map you have to experience, the Trolltunga, Norway cliff. Jutting 2,300 feet above the surface of the Ringedalsvatnet Lake below is a massive rock formation known by the locals as “Troll Tongue”. This is known for being one of the most spectacular rock formations in the entire world.
During a long-forgotten ice age, a glacier froze a massive portion of this cliff and broke it off to the valley below. Now, all that remains is a jutting cliff rock that looks as though at any moment it too could fall off tumbling down the side of the mountain. Of course, this knowledge does not deter the thousands of hikers who make the 8-10 hour trek up to the cliff.
How do you get to Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) in Norway?
The full Trolltunga hike takes you up the mountain with a slope of 800 meters and over 1,100 meters above sea level. The estimated hiking time is 8 to 12 hours depending on your experience level. The Skjegtal main route begins and ends in P2 (1165m). For those who walk at a speed of three miles per hour, the trip will take between eight and twelve hours.
The hike to Trolltunga is lengthy and the return trip is much longer. As a result, it’s essential that you arrange your journey well ahead of time and be prepared for anything.
The GPS coordinates for the trailhead are as follows:
- N 60° 32′ 12.5″
- E 06° 53′ 55.3″
Drive west from the main parking lot and take a right on Skjegtalsvegen Road to reach the Trolltunga trailhead. There is a designated parking area at the trailhead.
The trip begins with a level stroll along a gravel road that quickly transforms into a zigzagging route up the mountain. After an hour of trekking, you’ll reach Ringedalsvhead car park, which is encircled by beautiful Lake Ringedalsvej.
The trail then follows the edge of the lake before climbing steeply up to the plateau. From here, the views are incredible and you can see all the way to the Hardangerjøkulen glacier.
The trail then undulates for a while before descending steeply again to Skjegtalsvatn lake. The last section of the trail is a steep, rocky scramble to the top of Trolltunga.
Near the top, the panoramic vistas are simply breathtaking. In every direction, you can see for miles, and it’s easy to understand why this spot is so popular with tourists.
Trails to Trolltunga are marked, and the hike begins from Skjeggedal’s main trailhead. A round-trip hike runs about 800 meters from P2 in Mgebakken. The trailhead is located at a separate point in Mekkelitopp (Mgelitopp).
See Related: Visiting the Ponte Vasco da Gama
Trolltunga Weather
As with any other adventure in nature, the weather in the mountains can change in an instant. For this reason, hikers are only allowed to venture up the path from mid-June to mid-September. However, you still put yourself at risk for rainy or foggy weather.
Best Time to Hike Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue)
The best time to visit Trolltunga (Trolls’ Tongue) is during the summer season when the weather is warm and the trails are dry. However, it’s important to note that even during the summer months, the weather in Norway can be unpredictable and changeable, so it’s always a good idea to come prepared for all types of weather.
Typical times to visit are from mid-June until mid-September. Keep in mind that later in the season there can be extremely bad weather such as heavy rain, snow, and fog. The best time to visit the amazing Trolltunga cliff is during mid-August when the weather has cooled off and changing weather conditions are not yet fully prevalent.
What to take on the Trolltunga hike
Proper equipment, food and water, and clothing are a must if you dare to take this trip. Prepare yourself well for your 12-mile hike over 2,600 feet into the height of the mountains, and if you want to stay overnight high above the Lake Ringedalsvatnet surface be sure and bring your own tent because you won’t find any hotels or campgrounds on your journey.
This is a challenging hike that should only be attempted if you are in good shape and have experience hiking in rough terrain. The trail is long (22 km) and there is a lot of elevation gain, so you will need to be prepared for a tough hike.
Make sure you bring plenty of food and water, as well as a map and compass (or GPS). In Northern Norway, temperatures may drop considerably as you move up the mountain. At higher altitudes, weather conditions can change rapidly, so be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out.
During the winter season, avalanche conditions may exist and this time of the year is generally prohibited to the public.
Here are some easy tips for your hike to Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue):
- Be prepared for extreme weather conditions; bring warm clothing and rain gear.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times; there are many dangers in the mountains.
- This is a long and challenging hike; make sure you are prepared before heading out.
- If you can, hike Trolltunga cliff with a group of friends; this will allow you to help each other during the demanding hike if you need it.
Reaching Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue)
The view from Trolltunga is truly breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. The mountains and lakes below look like tiny toys, and the sheer magnitude of the cliff is an awe-inspiring sight. The view from Trolltunga will take your breath away.
Once you reach Trolltunga, there is a short scramble up to the cliff edge. Be careful not to get too close to the edge, as it is a long way down.
Enjoy the views from the top, but be sure to take plenty of pictures, as this is an experience you will never forget.
See Related: Things To Do In Tromso, Norway
The view from Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue)
If you have the courage to make the hike, you will be rewarded with one of the most amazing views in Norway. Just be sure to take plenty of pictures.
Of course, there is a reason so many people make the long and arduous journey to Trolltunga every year and it has to do with its breathtaking beauty.
The backdrop that sets the stage for Trolltunga includes Lake Ringedalsvatnet and at its highest point, the cliff resides about 3,600 feet above sea level.
Once you finally arrive at Troll Tongue you can then dare to take those first nail-biting few steps onto the cliff’s ledge. If you feel even more daring you can position yourself all the way at the very end with your feet hanging over the ledge!
Some daredevils have even done cartwheels and jumping jacks on top of the ledge. Whatever you do be cognizant that you are looming 2,300 feet above the ground and be respectful of that fact.
Take a journey to Norway and become part of Troll Tongue, and we don’t mean literally. Take it from us this is one heck of an adventure for the daring individual in all of us.
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Guided tours with Trolltunga Adventures
The Trolltunga round trip hike is long and tough, even for experienced hikers. In this respect, it is highly recommended that you take a guided hike in addition to staying overnight in the mountain areas along the road.
If you’re looking to make the journey to Trolltunga but don’t feel confident in your ability to navigate the trail on your own, consider taking a guided hike. Trolltunga Adventures offers guided hikes to Trolltunga that include transportation, food, and lodging. This is a great option for the less experienced hiker.
Another benefit is that because you avoid overcrowding the cliff during the peak hours of the day, by going on a hike with Trolltonga Adventures, you’ll have more time to enjoy the Trolltonga cliff on a full night’s rest. Plus, you’ll be able to wake up early and see the cliff at sunrise if you’d like.
Book your Trolltonga guided hike in advance and lock in your spot to see one of the most spectacular rock formations in the entire world. Trolltunga Adventures offers:
- Guided tours where an experienced local guide will take you to Trolltunga and back safely
- Equipment rental so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own heavy gear
- Packed lunch for the hike so you can save your energy for the journey
- Transportation to and from the starting point of the hike
- A small group size so you can get personalized attention on your tour.
FAQ
How long does it take to climb Trolltunga?
The hike to Trolltunga takes you up about 1,100 meters above sea level and ascends about 800 meters at Skjeggal’s main trailhead at P 2. A typical day excursion will take between 8 and 12 hours.
How long is the Trolltunga hike?
The hike to Trolltunga is 28 kilometers (about 17 miles) long, with 800 meters (2600 feet). The trek usually takes 8 to 12 hours. A Trolltunga excursion will take some time.
Is Trolltunga a hard hike?
Yes, this is considered a challenging hike. The Trolltunga walk is a 28-kilometer trek that takes around eight to twelve hours from start to end. The road leading up to Trolltunga is challenging and the high mountain terrain can be a challenge even for experienced hikers. There will be plenty of stunning vistas along the way.
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