Discover Jotunheimen: Black Route (8-days)
Join us for some of the highlights in Jotunheimen. Uranostind, Besseggen and Østre Torfinnstind! We support you with a guide and equipment for the two most demanding hikes.Our 8-day Jotunheimen Black Route Itinerary was designed to meet the demands of those accomplished hikers, in good physical shape and condition, with previous hiking experience from alpine mountain areas, who really wish to challenge themselves and discover the highest and most panoramic scenes in the area. You’ll be accompanied by accomplished local guides for the two most strenuous hikes, Østre- Torfinnstind and glacier hike to peak Uranostind, but sure-footedness is required to enjoy it. Become a real Norwegian mountain goat and discover that hard work does pay off. The total route is 77km long.
This route gives you the most exciting hikes and peaks in the area. Hike the popular Besseggen trail, a classic adventure for Norwegians. Over the years more and more tourists have been drawn to take the journey across this mountain ridge, in the footsteps of great adventurers. In recent years, an estimate of around 60 000 hikers cross this popular ride annually. It’s attraction lies both in its mesmerising scenery, from the turquoise waters of the Gjende lake, to the spectacular view of mountain ridges and peaks into the far distance, as well as in its demanding terrain; steep descents and ascents, and long trails. Its cultural significance and strenuous nature has made it an important point of reference in Norwegian culture and it is a true rite of passage for Norwegian hikers.
Climb the majestic Østre-Torfinnstind (2119 masl), a steep and exciting peak that towers over the Bygdin Lake, and trek through the valleys Svartdalen and Veslådalen. The journey through Svartdalen is one of the most appreciated and respected treks among Norwegian outdoor adventurers. The arduous walk combined with dramatic mountains towering over you from all sides can make you feel like you’re in an old folk tale. On misty days this sentiment is emphasised as the pale light allows for the “reveal” of indistinct faces in the mountains and mythical mountain creatures hiding behind the cliffs. On clearer days, you can see the magnificent white peaks rising on either side of you, including Knutsholstiden, once believed to be the tallest mountain in Norway. The hike to Fondsbu via Veslådalen is a very popular hike that connects two traditional lodges, Gjendebu and Fondsbu DNT.
You will also hike from Memurubu to Gjendebu across Bukkelægret; walking along the Ridge of Sjugurdtinden you will have access to the panoramas on all sides of the ridge; overlooking the Gjende lake in the East, the mesmerising valley of Memurudalen going North-West, the mountainous landscape in the West and the steep peaks towering over the Gjende Lake in the South. This is arguably one of the best and subsequently one of the more heavily underrated views in the area. This hike offers an exciting blend of mountain and nature hiking as well as it allows you to put your climbing skills to the test.
The last day you will explore the glacier journey to the iconic Uranostind (2157 masl). This demanding trek takes you over a glacier with crevasses, and you will do some easy climbing and then crawl out on the top ridge and admire the spectacular view from the summit. The weather at high altitudes in Norway can change quickly, and snowstorms can happen every month of the summer.
Stay in classic and historic lodges such as the Bygdin Hotel, Fondsbu DNT, Gjendesheim, Memurubu and Gjendebu, where people from all over the come together to share their experiences, in peaceful and friendly ambiences in the heart of nature.
On this tour we also support you with luggage transportation during the trek and with bus transportation to and from Oslo or Bergen.