Galdhøpiggen Vandring

The highest mountain in Norway looms over the surrounding peaks, providing a stunning view of Jotunheimen National Park. Galdhøpiggen is more than a mountain - it is also a symbol of the relationship between the Norwegians and the mountains. But even as the mountain is the highest in Norway, it is not inaccessible. There are three main entry points to Galdhøpiggen all at different levels: easy, difficult, and extreme.

Although the entry point from Spiterstulen is relatively easy, it does require a lot of motivation and good physical condition because it is quite a long trip. During the hike, you will scale three peaks, totaling over 2,000 meters in height! This trip is among the more sought-after hikes in Jotunheimen.

In 2010, sherpas (mountain experts) renovated the trail because of increased erosion. Make sure to follow the trail markers, to help prevent more erosion and preserve the area. Upon reaching the top on a clear day, you can see up to one-fourth of Southern Norway!

Bus
From Oslo, take the NW161 Valdresekspressen route to the stop “Lom”. From Lom, take the 565 bus to Spiterstulen. This bus travels two times per day. 

To see other adventures along the bus route, view the Valdresekspressen guide.

Car
Head south from Lom on route 55 and turn onto Visdalvegen. After about 1 km, Visdalsvegen turns slightly right and becomes Brekkvegen. Continue on Brekkvegen for 16 km until the road dead-ends at Spiterstulen Turisthytte.

The trip begins from the bridge at Spiterstulen, which is located 1,100 moh, between the two highest mountains in Norway: Galdhøpiggen and Glittertind. The bridge takes you into a small forest, where there is a clear path before loose gravel and stones appear. Remember to follow the red “T”s that indicate the trail. Throughout the hike, you will climb up both Svellnose (2,272 m.a.s.l) and Keilhaustopp (2355 m.a.s.l) before reaching the acclaimed Galdhøpiggen towering at an astonishing 2469 m.a.s.l.

The entire trip up should take about 5 hours (including breaks). There is a small cabin at the top, great for taking a rest from the cold winds and possible snow. You should be particularly careful when descending from the top of the snow-covered rocks, as they are most likely slippery. 

Breakfast and dinner are served at Spiterstulen. The toilets are accessible to guests. 

Spiterstulen Turisthytte is located on a former mountain farm and is the most convenient option as a basecamp for Galdhøpiggen. The lodge accompanies all price ranges and has rooms to book as well as camping facilities with showers, toilets, and a communal kitchen. If you are bringing your motorhome there is an option to access electrical outlets and empty toilets. There’s also a swimming pool, sauna, and seating outside to watch the river or enjoy the mountains.

The season lasts from the beginning of March to the beginning of May, and then from mid-May to mid-October.