Østre Torfinnstind

Østre Torfinnstind or “Eastern Torfinnstind” is the highest one of the mountain Torfinnstindane’s three peaks. At 2119 meters above sea level, it rises majestically in the sky behind Torfinnsbu, and can be seen from most mountains in the southern area of Jotunheimen. The hike is of the more challenging sort, and requires you to be in good physical health. But once you reach the top, the trip is well worth the challenge. In addition to magnificent views of the spectacular surroundings; one can – on a clear day – see almost all the way to Oslo.

 

Interactive map of Østre Torfinnstind hike

 

 

Guided hike: Østre Torfinnstind

Difficulty: Difficult
Time: 5-6 hour(s)
Distance: 6 kilometers
Elevation at peak: 2119 meters
Ascent height: 1060 meters

About Østre Torfinnstind

Østre Torfinnstind or “Eastern Torfinnstind” is the highest one of the mountain Torfinnstindane’s three peaks. At 2,119 meters above sea level, it rises majestically in the sky behind Torfinnsbu, and can be seen from most mountains in the southern area of Jotunheimen. The hike is of the more challenging sort, and requires you to be in good physical health. But once you reach the top, the trip is well worth the challenge. In addition to magnificent views of the spectacular surroundings; one can – on a clear day – see almost all the way to Oslo. Do not forget to bring your camera!

For an even bigger challenge we also offer tours across all three Torfinnstind peaks.

Eastern Torfinnstind is located in the southern part of Jotunheimen, by the shores of lake Bygdin in the municipality of Vang. You can access the area by catching the Bitihorn ferry from Bygdin (the place), and hopping off at Torfinnsbu.

The hike takes anywhere from 3 to 5 hours (breaks not included) and can easily be carried out as a daytrip. From the boat docks at Torfinnsbu at 09:50 am, you have just over 6.5 hours before you have to be back for the return to Bygdin.

Østre Torfinnstind Hike Description

This hike should not be attempted without a guide. The terrain can be difficult and dangerous if you do not know the route well. There is also the possibility of accidentally loosening rocks who can hit hikers further down the mountain side.

History

Eastern (Øystre) Torfinnstind lies at 2120 m.a.s.l. and is the highest of the three peaks. It was first ascended by Emanuel Mohn, British William Cecil Slingsby and Knut Lykken in 1876. The first was professor and mountaineer, and the second a well travelled alpinist and climber. The two set out to make several first ascents in Jotunheimen in the year of 1876. Because they knew that they would encounter glaciers they got a third person, Knut Lykken, involved. Knut Lykken was a local farmer, reindeer hunter and mountaineer from Østre Slidre.

Nature and the Surroundings

Torfinnstindane is located in the southern part of Jotunheimen, by the shores of lake Bygdin, in the municipality of Vang. This iconic mountain makes up the most Southern part of a long line of twelve peaks all over 2000 m.a.s.l, stretching from Bygdin going North.

Bygdin Mountain Lake is one of the most characteristical reference points in Jotunheimen. It lies in the southern part of the national park and measures 28 km long and 2 km wide. During the months of July and August the boat, M/B Bitihorn, takes you across the lake to access Eidsbugarden and Torfinnsbu. M/B Bitithorn is in fact Northern Europe’s highest lying boat route and and has been active since the summer of 1912!

Who is this Hike Suitable for

This hike is challenging and only suitable for those in good physical shape with previous experience for similar activities.

Season

The main season is summer/late summer. This is when the area is most suitable for trekking. To access Torfinnsbu, one needs to travel by M/B Bitihorn that runs from late June to the beginning of September.

Accommodation

Stay at Bygdin Mountain Lodge or Fondsbu DNT which are located on the opposite sides of Bygdin Lake. Or spend a night at Torfinnsbu, a self-service DNT cabin right at the foot of Torfinstindane.

How to Get There

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