Falketind hike

Falketind was first ascended in 1820 and was the first mountain of "alpine character " to be climbed in Norway. This discovery is considered "the awakening of Jotunheimen", as people became aware of the real potential and all the breadth of opportunities in the area. It is probably the most demanding, and at the same time best tour in Jotunheimen! A wonderful tour including crossing a glacier on the way up to the 2067 meter high peak. The last part is very steep and will require some crawling. The view from the peak is breathtaking, and the route in itself is as well scenic. The tour starts in Koldedalen and set off for a 12-13km hike to the peak.

 

Interactive map of Falketind 

 

 

Guided hike: Falketind

Difficulty: Difficult
Time: 10-12 hour(s)
Distance: 13 kilometers
Elevation at peak: 2067 meters
Ascent height: 1000 meters

About Falketind

Falketind is a very well-known mountain peak and hiking destination. The tour includes hiking to the Falkebree glacier and then climbing, to the Stølsnobree glacier. Here proper climbing gear is required. The last part you will follow the ridge of Falketind to the summit.

The real discovery of Jotunheimen started with Falketind, one of the most strenuous yet popular hikes in the national park. The impressive profile inspired its name, given by the poet Aasmund Vinje; he saw the bent beak of a falcon where the spiky "tine" on the summit was, and the surrounding spots of snow on the mountain side looked like the white specked chest of this bird of prey.

The hike offers mesmerising and unique views, as most peaks at this elevation do; on the way up to the peak you'll see Morka-Koldedalen Valley spread out below you, and the Hjelledalstinden and Falketind rising in front of you.

Hike Description

The most popular route is the one that the pioneers hiked, called Pioneer-ruta. This route takes you from Koldedalen Valley, over the Falkebre Glacier and up the Eastwall of the peak. An arduous climb, but very rewarding when you reach the top of the Falcon. The hike requires some climbing and maybe crawling.

This hike should not be attempted without the support from a certified guide!

History

The first ascent was back in 1820, which is very early given the character of the summit. The first city folk who would travel to explore the mountains were often students and scientist, and the city explorers of Falketind were no different. Peter Christian Bianco Boeck and Baltazar Mathias Keilhau, both students, together with the local reindeer hunter Ola Urden, set out to explore this unknown mountain. Having successfully crossed the Falkebree Glacier, Keilhau felt that it was unwise to carry on in this direction and suggested a different route to reach the peak. He wrote that he felt that his companions were under a sort of spell or compulsion that drove them to continue.

Keilhau tried a different route, but the sound of a snow slide nearby prompted him to follow his peers to warn them. He hurried up the path the others had taken and eventually joined them at the top.

The first ascent of Falketind is also known as the real discovery of Jotunheimen, as the potential and breadth of the of opportunities in the area became more apparent.

Nature and the Surroundings

Falketind lies South West in Jotunheimen, outside the National Park, but inside Utladalen Protected Area. Together with the south-lying Hjelledalstinden, it creates a majestic portal to the national park.

Who is this Hike Suitable for

This hike is very demanding and only suitable for experienced hikers in good physical shape.

Season

The main season is summer/late summer. This is when the area is most suitable for trekking.

Accommodation

Stay at Fondsbu DNT which is located by the shore of Bygdin Lake.

How to Get There

You can access the area by catching the M/B Bitihorn ferry from Bygdin (the place), and hopping off at Eidsbugarden.