Briksdalsbreen

The hike to the Briksdalsbreen Glacier (“breen” means glacier in Norwegian) is an unmissable experience on any trip to Norway. It offers remarkably easy access to one of the most iconic and photogenic arms of Jostedalsbreen, the largest ice cap in Western Europe.

The trail winds through the lush, deeply carved valley of Briksdalen, alongside a rushing river and revealing impressive waterfalls. Arriving at the foot of the glacier is a spectacular visual reward, with the milky glacial lake Briksdalsbrevatnet, and the blue walls of the ice giant coming into view.

Remarks

Parking:  There is a large parking lot at the trailhead, with an indicative cost of NOK 75 in 2025.

Hiking popularity: This is a very popular site, especially during the summer season and when tourist buses arrive. My advice: To fully enjoy the serenity of this exceptional natural setting, visit early in the morning (before 10 a.m.) or late in the afternoon (after 6 p.m.).

Difficulties of the hike

This route is remarkably simple and designed to be accessible to all. It is very well laid out and follows a wide, gently sloping, perfectly maintained, and clearly marked trail.

What you'll love

  • The breathtaking view of the Briksdal Glacier, which majestically descends from the mountains – a striking sight, especially considering its retreat in recent decades.
  • The beauty of the landscape: You will be surrounded by numerous waterfalls, including the powerful Kleivafossen, as well as glacial lakes with milky waters. You will also walk through a green valley with vertiginous cliffs.
  • The educational panels along the trail offer fascinating insights into the geological history and recent evolution of the glacier.
icone activite
Activity: Hiking
icone difficulte
Difficulty: EasyiDifficulty levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
icone duree
Average duration: 1 h 45 miFind out how we calculate the duration here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
icone distance
Length: 4.7 km
icone typetrajet
Type of route: Out and back
icone denivele positif
Elevation gain: 180 m
icone altitude
Maximum altitude: 350 m
Vertiginous: NoiVertiginous levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
icone balise
Marked: Yes
frequentation
Popularity: Very high
icone region
Region: Vestland
icone depart
Start point: 61.66338, 6.82361
Briksdalsbreen