Here is your introduction to hiking in Lofoten. Elopement or not, hiking in Lofoten should definitely be on your bucket list.
For the first time visitor, Lofoten might seem to have overwhelming options of hiking trails. Let me help you navigate the possibilities and look at what would be good choices when choosing your hike in Lofoten.
Lets adventure together
Hiking in Lofoten has lots of alternatives for every experience and fitness level. There are easy walks for families or more demanding mountain climbs suitable for avid hikers. That being said, the overall standard of Lofoten’s trails, are quite steep and tends to be better suited to the more experienced hiker. The elevated and rugged nature, often with unmarked and slippery trails, can be a challenge for the inexperienced hiker.
Most trails are unmarked, and sometimes finding the trailhead can be the biggest challenge. On a positive note, the lack of forrest makes navigating to your destination easy. The more popular routes will have an obvious worn down trail to follow, but be aware of the fog. It creeps up on you and finding the route can sometimes be difficult. In poor visibility, stay cautious of potential steep drop-offs, especially when nearing a mountain summit.
CHOOSING YOUR HIKE
While some mountains are known for their iconic views, I think it’s better to choose a hike depending on your experience and state of health. Knowing Lofoten, every view is epic, having hiked for 20 minutes or 5 hours. Only thing that might take away some of the magic is fog, but even when finding yourself covered, it’s a very cool experience. So, unless you live hereperhap or reside somewhere in the Alps, any of Lofoten’s peaks will have world class views!
HOW TO AVOID CROWDS
Like mentioned earlier, you really can’t go wrong when choosing your hike for views. Ending up hiking in a queue though can be annoying when being in a place like this. Talk to the locals. Although somewhat shy, the Norwegian people are a very friendly and welcoming people, and they love sharing if you are respectful in your behaviour. Time of day and season has a lot to say on how to avoid the crowds. Most tourists choose morning and mid day for their hikes, so by choosing sunrise or late afternoon, you loose a lot of the crowds. Looking at the season, it’s also beneficial to choose a shoulder season with less tourists or come during the midnight sun. Having daylight 24/7 allows for you to wander and adventure all night long. Although it is a known phenomenon, there are surprisingly few who choose to hike at night.
When to go
While all routes can be hiked at any time of year given the right experience, if you want snow free access to the mountains, choose June, July, August, to mid/late September to hike in Lofoten.
Although there are lots of weather apps, patterns and previous experiences, there really is no way of predicting the Lofoten Islands weather. You just need to experience it and come prepared. Know that this is in an arctic area, so in general, this place has a colder climate.
With the Midnight Sun coming in late May, the Islands are finally beginning to escape from the grip of winter. Be aware that winter and snow can still be found on peaks above 4-500 meters, so make sure to look into elevation and changes in temperature before embarking on a hike.
Spring lasts longer in the Lofoten Islands, so be cautious of rock and snow avalanches all the way up until June. This is the time for the mountains to thaw, so rocks might fall in unpredictable places. Some roads are more exposed to falling rocks, so if you find yourself venturing in unknown areas, make sure to keep your eyes open.
SUMMER AND AUTUMN HIKING
By July all the highest routes should be snow free as the midnight sun has been in the sky for over a month. With the passing of August into early September the days become shorter and the winter approaches.
September nights can begin to drop below freezing point and some snow might begin to fall, though it usually won’t stick around for too long. Hiking in September is magical with the changing of colours, but be prepared for slippery areas. Crampons or micro spikes is definitely advised to bring come autumn. October becomes a bit riskier if hiking is your goal, so keep an open mind. If you are an avid hiker, you’ll know how to prepare for any season. But if this is your first time I would cap it around this time of year.
Whenever you do choose to go, always keep an eye on the weather when heading out for a hike in Lofoten. It can change in an instant, so make sure not to take on a hike you’re not comfortable with in all types of weather. It can change quickly and just because the calendar tells you it is summer, it doesn’t mean the weather is paying attention…
For more information on how to pack for your trip to the Lofoten Islands, have a look here.
Lofoten code of conduct
- CAMP IN DESIGNATED AREAS (see map here)
- LEAVE NO TRACE remember that there will be others, so let them have the same great experience you’ve had.
- FOLLOW THE PATH AND AVOID THE CREATION OF NEW PATHS moss takes years to grow back and the ground is dependant on roots to stay in place. Choose good waterproof hiking boots to avoid making new trails.
- THROW WASTE IN THE WASTE BINS when you arrive at places without waste bins, pick up your trash and bring it back with you.
- USE PUBLIC TOILETS if none are available step off the trail and dig a pit. Cover the pit and bring all toilet paper back with you. Never use and dispose of wet wipes. They don’t decompose.
- RESPECT PRIVATE PROPERTY camping closer than 150 metres from an occupied house or cabin is forbidden. Freedom to roam comes with respect and remember, you’re probably not the only one looking for an amazing experience, so don’t camp on sought after places.
- BE CONSIDERATE IN TRAFFIC the roads in the Lofoten Islands are narrow. Be considerate of cyclist and keep to your side of the road. Driving motorhomes in the center of the road creates dangerous situations, epspecially in high season.
- BAN ON FIRES during the summer season, there is a general ban on open fire, respect it.
- RESPECT WILDLIFE avoid disturbing wildlife and keep dogs on a leash at all times.
- IN THE INTEREST OF THE ENVIRONMENT, as well as your own experience and safety, I recommend activities organised by a tour operator. You can find a list of such organisers at www.visitlofoten.com.
