The best hiking routes in Folgefonna nasjonalpark

Folgefonna nasjonalpark is defined by its massive plateau glaciers, steep valleys, and dramatic transition from fjord level to high-alpine ice. Unlike flatter mountain plateaus in southern Norway, walking here involves navigating either the sheer, rocky fingers of land that rise directly from the Hardangerfjord or the stark, grey moraine fields left behind by retreating ice. The landscape is split between lush, wet deciduous forests on the lower western slopes and a barren, wind-scoured world of granite and blue ice at the top.

Underfoot, the terrain demands careful attention. Lower trails often consist of rough, slippery stone steps built by sherpas, muddy forest paths, and wet slabs of bedrock. As you ascend toward the glacier tongues like Buerbreen or Bondhusbreen, the vegetation disappears, replaced by loose gravel, polished granite slabs, and suspension bridges over rushing meltwater torrents. There are no boardwalks here; instead, you will find red T-marked routes painted on rocks, which can require scrambling over boulders.

By July and August, the lower valleys are rich with meltwater streams and green vegetation, while the high glacier margins remain cold and stark. This park is not a place for gentle, rolling strolls or dry, sandy pine forests. It is a vertical landscape where hikers must be prepared for sudden changes from damp, mossy woodland to exposed, rocky terrain right at the edge of the ice.