Aurlandsdalen
A classic Norwegian valley trek descending from the Aurland mountains through a dramatic, waterfall-lined gorge to the Sognefjord.
Route overview
Aurlandsdalen is a long-established Norwegian hiking route, sometimes called the "Corpse Road" (Kongevegen) for its historic use as a route between farms before modern roads existed. It descends from high mountain terrain near Geiteryggen and Østerbø through a dramatic, steep-sided valley to the village of Aurland on the Sognefjord. The trek passes numerous waterfalls, gorges and remnants of old farmsteads, with the terrain changing from open high-mountain plateau at the start to increasingly steep, forested valley walls lower down. It is maintained and waymarked with support from the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) and local tourism bodies. Aurlandsdalen can be combined with the nearby Rallarvegen route for a longer multi-day itinerary through the Sognefjord region.
Trail facts
- Country
- Norway
- Region
- Aurland (Sognefjord region)
- Distance
- c. 35 km
- Typical duration
- 2–3 days
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- c. 1,600 m cumulative
- Best season
- Late June–September
- Trail type
- Valley descent trek
Safety context
The steep valley descent has some exposed and slippery sections near waterfalls; sturdy footwear and care are recommended, particularly after rain.
Underestimating the sustained descent's impact on knees and joints over multiple days is a frequent complaint from hikers.
Highlights
Historic Kongevegen route between farms Dramatic waterfall-lined gorge Descent to the Sognefjord Can be combined with Rallarvegen
Why find a buddy
The remote upper valley section and steep, sometimes slippery descent are safer tackled with a companion.
Primary source
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Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.