Munken

The Munken hike leads to the northern peak of this iconic mountain in the Lofoten archipelago, rising to an altitude of 769 meters on the island of Moskenesøya. The route passes through spectacular landscapes and offers exceptional views of the surrounding fjords, numerous high-altitude lakes, and rugged mountains, which are characteristic of the archipelago.

This must-do hike passes by the Munkebu hut, an ideal place to rest or camp, before continuing to the summit, which reveals an incredible 360-degree panorama of the Reinefjord, Forsfjord, and Kjerkfjord.

Remarks

Best time to go: Mid-June to September on average. See the Norway FAQ for more details.

Possible extension: You can extend this hike by climbing Hermannsdalstinden for an unforgettable experience. In this case, the area around the Munkebu huts is an ideal place to camp for a two-day hike.

Difficulties of the hike

There are no significant difficulties, except for the route's length and the substantial elevation gain. As is often the case in Lofoten, the trail is not marked. However, it is clearly visible, and you will find a few directional signs.

Please note that the true summit of Munken, the southern peak (797 m), is reserved for experienced climbers; the northern peak presented here is 30 meters lower and does not require technical climbing skills.

What you'll love

  • An exceptional panoramic view from the summit: A 360-degree panorama of the Lofoten archipelago with a bird's-eye view of the fjords, the succession of rocky peaks, and the Arctic Ocean stretching as far as the eye can see.
  • The impressive succession of lakes with varying shapes and shades of blue along the route.
  • Optional detour via Merraflestinden: A magnificent view of Djupfjorden is accessible with only an extra half-hour walk.
  • The Munkebu hut is an ideal place to pitch your tent, with drinking water available and magnificent views.
icone activite
Activity: Hiking
icone difficulte
Difficulty: HardiDifficulty levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
icone duree
Average duration: 5 h 30 miFind out how we calculate the duration here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
icone distance
Length: 12.6 km
icone typetrajet
Type of route: Out and back
icone denivele positif
Elevation gain: 1030 m
icone altitude
Maximum altitude: 769 m
Vertiginous: NoiVertiginous levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
icone balise
Marked: No
frequentation
Popularity: Low
icone region
Region: Moskenesøya
icone depart
Start point: 67.89127, 13.00981
Munken