Hardangervidda Traverse

Route overview

The Hardangervidda Traverse is a high-level route of approximately 130 kilometres across the Hardangervidda, Europe's largest mountain plateau, in southern Norway. The plateau sits at an average elevation of 1,100 metres and covers an area roughly the size of Luxembourg, offering a landscape of arctic-alpine tundra, glacier rivers, and scattered reindeer herds. The classic traverse runs from Finse on the Bergen railway to Kalhovd or across to the Hardangerjøkulen glacier edge. The terrain is rolling and open, with no trees, minimal waymarking, and weather that can change rapidly from sunshine to snow. The route crosses numerous glacial rivers that require wading or bridge use, and passes the Hardangervidda National Park centre at Kalhovd. The Hardangervidda is a serious wilderness environment where navigation skills are essential. The plateau is home to Europe's largest wild reindeer herd and is an important area for Sami reindeer herding. DNT cabins provide shelter at regular intervals.

A crossing of Europe's largest mountain plateau through arctic-alpine tundra, glacier rivers, and reindeer herding grounds between Finse and Kalhovd in southern Norway.

Trail facts

Country

Norway

Region

Hardangervidda Plateau

Distance

c. 130 km

Typical duration

6–8 days

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation gain

c. 2,000 m cumulative

Best season

July–September

Trail type

High plateau traverse

Safety context

The plateau is exposed to severe weather including snow in summer. River crossings after rain are dangerous. Navigation is challenging in fog. Emergency shelters are widely spaced.

This is a wilderness route requiring self-sufficiency. DNT cabins must be booked in advance or a DNT key obtained. The terrain is not technically difficult but the environment is demanding.

Highlights

Finse and the Bergen railway Glacial river crossings Reindeer herds on the plateau Hardangerjøkulen glacier views Kalhovd national park centre Arctic-alpine tundra landscape DNT cabin network Open plateau navigation

Why find a buddy

A true wilderness traverse across Europe's largest plateau — a partner is essential for safety, navigation and shared experience in this exposed arctic-alpine environment.

Primary source

Open the primary route source.

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