Trolltunga
Trolltunga: a guide to the hike, parking and where to stay
A shelf of rock 700 metres above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, and one of Norway’s most famous hikes. Trolltunga is an incredible experience, but also long and demanding. Here is everything about distance, parking, season and preparation, and the hotels closest to the trail.
The final stretch crosses bare mountain, and suddenly there it is: a narrow shelf of rock jutting straight out into thin air, 700 metres above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. People queue to walk out onto the tongue, and when it is your turn you notice your knees shaking slightly. Trolltunga is one of Norway’s most famous hikes, but also one of its most demanding. Here is what you need to know before you go.
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Short answer: Trolltunga
Distance: 20 to 38 kilometres return, depending on where you start.
Time: 7 to 15 hours.
Season: Mid-June to mid-September. The rest of the year, only guided hikes are recommended.
Base: Odda in Hardanger, around three hours by car from Bergen.
Stay near the trailhead
In Odda, closest to the trail: Trolltunga Hotel. See rooms at Trolltunga Hotel
Historic in Tyssedal: Tyssedal Hotel. See rooms at Tyssedal Hotel
Parking and trailheads
There are three car parks, and your choice decides how long the hike will be:
P1 Tyssedal: Around 220 spaces. The hike is 38 kilometres return and takes around 15 hours. A bus runs on up from here.
P2 Skjeggedal: Around 180 spaces. The hike is 27 kilometres return and takes 8 to 12 hours. A bus runs from here to P3.
P3 Mågelitopp: Only around 30 spaces, which must be booked in advance. The hike is 20 kilometres return and takes 7 to 10 hours.
In season there is also a bus from Odda to all three car parks. Check times and booking with the operator, and book early. In spring the road between Tyssedal and Skjeggedal may be closed.
When to go
The safe season runs from mid-June to mid-September. Outside it there is snow in the mountains, and only guided hikes are recommended. In winter there are guided tours on skis, snowshoes and even with husky dogs.
Staying in a dome near Trolltunga.
How to prepare
Start early: Many set off before seven in the morning to avoid the longest queue and get down before dark.
Set a turnaround time: Decide in advance when you will turn back, however far you have got.
Bring enough: Food, water, extra warm layers, rain gear, a head torch and a first-aid kit.
Wear good boots: The path is rocky, steep and often wet.
Watch the weather: Mountain weather can change fast, even in midsummer.
The queue on the tongue
In high season you may have to wait a while for your photo out on the tongue. Use the time to eat and rest, and remember the view is just as stunning from the rocks around it.
Guided or on your own?
In summer many hike on their own, but a guided hike gives peace of mind if you are unsure about your fitness or the weather. Outside the season, a guide is the only safe choice.
Weddings on Trolltunga
Since 2021 it has been possible to get married on Trolltunga. Read the story in This is how Norwegians get married.
The Hardangerfjord, below Trolltunga.
Where to stay
You start early and come down tired. Stay as close to the trail as possible, ideally for two nights.
Trolltunga Hotel: in Odda
A simple hotel in Odda, a short way to the bus and the car parks.
Book your stay: See rooms at Trolltunga Hotel
Tyssedal Hotel: by P1
A historic hotel in Tyssedal, right by the lowest car park.
Book your stay: See rooms at Tyssedal Hotel
Hardanger Hotel: in central Odda
A hotel in the centre of Odda, with a restaurant and bar.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hardanger Hotel
Hotel Ullensvang: luxury on the fjord
A historic fjord hotel in Lofthus, around an hour from the trail, with a spa and pool.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Ullensvang
Frequently asked questions about Trolltunga
How long is the Trolltunga hike?
From 20 kilometres return from P3 to 38 kilometres from P1.
How long does it take to hike to Trolltunga?
Between 7 and 15 hours, depending on your starting point and fitness.
When can you hike to Trolltunga?
From mid-June to mid-September. The rest of the year, only guided hikes are recommended.
Do you need to book parking?
At P3 Mågelitopp you must book in advance. The other car parks are paid on site.