Brenndalsbreen Hike

Hike overview

Hiking to the Brenndalsbreen glacier is an authentic experience in the heart of Norway's spectacular Oldedalen Valley. Less crowded than its famous neighbor, the Briksdalsbreen hike, this route takes you through a wild, steep-sided valley to one of the many glacier tongues of the Jostedalsbreen glacier, the largest in continental Europe. This accessible route is perfect for hikers seeking tranquility and spectacular scenery, far from the tourist crowds.

Remarks

Parking: A parking is available for a fee (70 NOK in 2025), with limited spaces.

Please note: the Brenndalsbreen glacier is not directly visible from the end of the trail. Only a spectacular waterfall, fed by its meltwater, can be seen. The glacier's retreat in recent decades now limits its visibility to distant viewpoints.

Difficulties and description of the hike

The route presents no technical difficulties. The first section, which is approximately 1.5 kilometers long, follows a wide forest track that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the Oldedalen valley. Then, the trail enters the Brenndalen Valley and passes through a pleasant forest on nearly flat ground until the final approach, which is marked by a waterfall fed by the Brenndalsbreen glacier.
Although marking is sporadic, the path remains relatively easy to follow thanks to a few well-placed directional signs.

What you'll love

  • The variety of landscapes: Lush forests, torrents, tumultuous waterfalls, glaciers, and glacial valleys.
  • A much more peaceful atmosphere and less touristy than at the popular nearby Briksdalsbreen glacier.

Hike technical sheet

Activity: Hiking
Difficulty: EasyiDifficulty levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Average duration: 2 h 45 miFind out how we calculate the duration here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Length: 7.7 km
Type of route: Out and back
Elevation gain: 290 m
Maximum altitude: 298 m
Vertiginous: NoiVertiginous levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Marked: No
Popularity: Moderate
Region: Vestland
Start point: 61.67791, 6.81389

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Brenndalsbreen Hike