St Olav Ways
Norway's historic pilgrim route to the shrine of St Olav at Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, revived as a modern long-distance trail.
Route overview
The St Olav Ways (Pilegrimsleden) are a network of historic pilgrim routes converging on Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, where the medieval king St Olav is buried. The most walked route, the Gudbrandsdalsleden, runs from Oslo north through the Gudbrandsdalen valley to Trondheim, a route revived and re-waymarked in modern times by Norway's National Pilgrim Centre. The trail passes historic stave churches, farmland, forest and mountain terrain through the Dovrefjell area before descending toward Trondheim, combining a spiritual pilgrimage tradition with classic Norwegian scenery. Most pilgrims walk the full Oslo-to-Trondheim route over four to five weeks, staying in pilgrim hostels and farm accommodation, though many also walk shorter regional sections.
Trail facts
- Country
- Norway
- Region
- Oslo to Trøndelag
- Distance
- c. 640 km
- Typical duration
- 4–5 weeks
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- c. 10,000 m cumulative
- Best season
- June–September
- Trail type
- Pilgrimage route
Safety context
The Dovrefjell mountain crossing can experience harsh weather even in summer; standard Norwegian mountain hiking precautions apply.
The Dovrefjell high plateau section should not be underestimated; weather can turn quickly even in the height of summer.
Highlights
Nidaros Cathedral, Trondheim, the pilgrimage's final destination Gudbrandsdalen valley farmland and forest Dovrefjell mountain plateau crossing Historic stave churches along the route
Why find a buddy
A month-long pilgrimage through Norwegian valleys and mountains is a meaningful and safer experience shared with a companion.
Primary source
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Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.