National Parks

After 1800 km along Norway's Atlantic coast, we decided for the last stretch to take a more inland route. We wanted to see something of Norway's mountains in the triangle Trondheim, Bergen, Oslo. The most spectacular parts of it are protected areas in the form of National Parks. On our way south we passed through the Sjodalen to end up at the Jotunheimen National Park.

snow on the mountains

snow on the mountains

and next to the road

snow near the road

At the time of year we passed through, there was only little snow left. Only on the peaks of the 2000-3000 meter high mountains. We stayed on the main road, which is the number 51, with a maximum altitude of 1389 meters. Therefore, we passed only a few small patches of snow.

As usual on these heights, there is hardly any vegetation. Well, there is enough, but it is more bushes than trees. This results in spectacular views, as long as there is enough sight. The weather we had was a mixture of everything: fog in the morning, dark clouds (incl. rain), but also the shining on the white mountain tops.

Lake

lakes at high altitude

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Lake

In the Jotunheimer there are many large lakes. Even at altitudes of 1000 meters. Because many trails follow these lakes, there must be many easier walks to be made. But again, this is not from own experience, because we stayed with our bikes on the main road. Looking at the map, this must also be a good hiking area, with many possibilities for circular hikes. Only one advise: don't go during the summer vacation, because I found it really crouded with tourists. Maybe you don't find them when you leave the beaten track. I don't know, but be careful, the Jotunheimen seems very popular.

For accomodation there are quite some cabins, but also a very nicely located Youth Hostel along the 15 at the higest point of 1389 meters. This really must be a good starting point for multiple hikes.

photographer

your reporter in action

road 51 highest point