Kvasstinden Vandring

Kvasstinden is Andøya Island’s highest peak, reaching 705 meters above sea level. The summit has tremendous views of the island and broader Vesterålen.

Neither the trail nor summit is terribly exposed, but some careful steps are required as you near the top. The early part of the trail runs through a marsh, so waterproof footwear is highly recommended.

The trailhead is a little more difficult to access than other hikes on Andøya. The last section of the road to the parking area is a poor-quality gravel road and is slow going.

Kvasstinden is located at the southern end of Andøya Island. The trailhead is accessed from the Road 975 which runs down the western coast.

From Road 974, at the southern end of Norwegian Scenic Route Andøya, turn onto Road 975 and follow it south past Sørmela and Åknes for 9 kilometers. The road is in poor condition for the last 3 kilometers to the trailhead so drive slowly.

Park by the road at the entrance to Norddalen Valley.

There are several ways to reach the top of Kvasstinden, including routes which take in more of the surrounding peaks. This route is direct and has a more gradual ascent with less exposure, but does travel through wet marshy areas.

Join the trail to the right of the river and begin heading into the valley. These lower parts of the trail can be quite soggy underfoot.

Follow the trail as it turns south and up between Bulitinden and Kvasstinden. Now above the treeline, the trail winds past a small pond and around to the ridge that connects Blåfjellet and Kvasstinden.

Follow the ridge up to the peak. Tread carefully and don’t hike too close to the edge as the drop on the other side is quite steep.