Hydrography

Water systems of this unique mountainous Jotunheimen region.

Hydrography of the Jotunheimen Mountains

The Jotunheimen Mountains in Norway are renowned for their striking water features, including soaring waterfalls, deep glacial lakes, fast-flowing rivers, and powerful glaciers. These elements define the unique landscape and natural beauty of the region. Below is a closer look at the main waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and glaciers that characterize Jotunheimen.

Galery of the historical places

Dji 0414 Kopie
Home Of Giants
Besseggen©DNT Gjendesheim
Tyin Panorama
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Major Waterfalls

  • Vettisfossen: One of Norway’s highest waterfalls, with a free fall of 275 meters, located in Utladalen Valley and protected as a natural monument.
  • Fannaråki and Hjelledalen: Smaller waterfalls in the Hurrungane area, especially visible in summer during glacial melt.
  • Avdalsfossen: A picturesque waterfall in Avdalen, popular for its access to traditional mountain farms.

Major Lakes

  • Gjende: An 18-kilometer-long lake known for its iconic green color from glacial sediments, a favorite starting point for the Besseggen hike.
  • Bygdin: A 25-kilometer lake ideal for boat trips and fishing, linking mountain lodges across its length.
  • Tyin: Located in the southwest of Jotunheimen, used for recreation and as a reservoir for hydropower stations.

Main Rivers and Streams

  • Utla: Flows through the Utladalen Valley, rich in fish, and a resource for traditional fishing.
  • Leira: Originates from glaciers near Leirvassbu, with cold waters that feed the surrounding lake system.
  • Sjoa: A river that originates from Lake Gjende and is popular for rafting and kayaking.

Glaciers

  • Smørstabbreen: The largest glacier in Jotunheimen, covering over 15 km², feeding many mountain streams and contributing to surrounding rivers and waterfalls. It’s a popular destination for glacier hiking.
  • Leirbreen: A smaller but dramatic glacier accessible from the Leirvassbu Valley, often visited for its scenic views and easy access.
  • Austre Memurubre: Melts into Lake Gjende, significantly contributing to its iconic green color. Though harder to reach, it offers a unique glimpse into the glacial ecosystem.

Ecosystem and the Importance of Water Resources

Water from glaciers and lake systems supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including trout and salmon. Glaciers, lakes, and rivers shape the landscape and have a significant economic impact; they provide resources for hydropower plants supplying energy to nearby regions and support tourism activities like fishing, hiking, and boat trips.

The Jotunheimen Mountains thus blend history, nature, and sustainable use of natural resources, remaining a key location for preserving Norway’s natural heritage.

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Vettisfossen is one of Norway’s tallest waterfalls, plunging 275 meters in a breathtaking free fall into the Utladalen valley in the southern part of the Jotunheimen Mountains.