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This is a bucket list run with a view of two huge adjacent bodies of water one 1000 feet above the other.


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Map Key

8.6

Miles

13.9

KM

63%

Runnable

5,693' 1,735 m

High

3,275' 998 m

Low

3,309' 1,009 m

Up

3,360' 1,024 m

Down

15%

Avg Grade (8°)

55%

Max Grade (29°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · Spring · Views · Wildlife

Overview

With lakes on both sides of the ridge (one a few hundred meters higher than the other), this run offers some spectacular views. Besseggen Ridge is said to be molded by Thor.

Need to Know

On the trail be sure you are seeing the "T" trail markers, especially near trail junctions. Missing one will require you to double-back.

Runner Notes

The section of Besseggen Ridge can be pretty steep, so watch your footing as a tumble here could be pretty bad.

Description

This can be done as part of a multi-day journey through Jotunheimen National Park, however at only 8.6 miles long, this can be done in a day by most. If done all in one go, it is best to run from Memurubu to Gjendesheim. You can take a boat from Gjendesheim to Memurubu and run back. If done in the other direction, simply start at Gjendesheim and follow the trail up the hill.

Generally, this is the preferred direction is considered a bit safer since you'll be ascending Besseggen Ridge (the mid-way ridge which separates the two bodies of water) instead of coming down it. Though the ridge does not require any special equipment or training, it is pretty steep, so keep that in mind. A tumble on the way down could result in significant injury or worse.

Other than the ridge, there is nothing particularly unusual about this run. When we did it in June, we were against a wind which I think was 40-50 knots, but it was worth it; the views are unlike any I have ever seen.

Flora & Fauna

Reindeer are commonly seen in this area.

Contacts

Shared By:

Jack Miller with improvements by Rohan Kumar

Trail Ratings

  4.9 from 13 votes

#613

Overall
  4.9 from 13 votes
5 Star
92%
4 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Norway

#613

Overall
7 Views Last Month
4,594 Since Aug 10, 2016
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91%
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Photos

Rob Paris scrambles up Besseggen Ridge in Norway's Jotunheimen National Park, Norway's most-popular hike.
Aug 8, 2016 near Fossbergom, NO
Looking back at Besseggen ridge. We hiked from the peak down the ridge because we were doing a full loop through Jotunheimen National Park.  This ridge was definitely the highlight.  Most take the ferry do the other way.
Feb 2, 2018 near Fossbergom, NO

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