The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Breheimen

Breheimen offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families. Our guide features over 90 hiking trails, with more than 30 classified as easy and 40 as moderate, ensuring there's something for every family's ability level.

The best time for family hikes in Breheimen is typically during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is generally milder, trails are more accessible, and the stunning natural landscapes, from lush valleys to glacial views, are at their most vibrant. Some higher-altitude trails may still have snow early in the season.

Yes, Breheimen has several enjoyable circular walks perfect for families. For a relatively easy and scenic option, consider the View of Jostedalsbreen Glacier – Fantesteinen Pass Summit loop from Sognefjellshytta. This moderate 5.4 km loop offers stunning views and is a great way to experience the glacial landscape without a strenuous climb.

Breheimen is renowned for its dramatic scenery. Many family-friendly trails offer breathtaking views of glaciers, towering peaks, and crystal-clear lakes. For instance, the View of Jostedalsbreen Glacier – Fantesteinen Pass Summit loop from Sognefjellshytta provides excellent vistas of the majestic Jostedalsbreen Glacier. You can also find serene lake views at places like Sottjønnin and Åsetevatnet.

Absolutely! Breheimen is known as the 'Home of the Glaciers' and features numerous waterfalls. While direct glacier walks often require guided tours, you can get fantastic views of glaciers from many trails. The Krossbu Tourist Station – Bøverbreen Glacier loop from Krossbu offers views of the Bøverbreen Glacier. You'll also encounter gushing creeks and powerful waterfalls throughout the park's valleys, such as Drivandefossen.

Many trails in Breheimen are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep dogs on a leash, especially in national park areas and during lambing season, to protect wildlife like the wild reindeer. Always check local regulations for specific routes. Ensure your dog is accustomed to hiking and bring enough water for both of you.

Beyond the trails, Breheimen offers several captivating attractions. You can explore the historic Gamle Strynefjellsvegen, a scenic mountain road. For those seeking a challenge, the Lomseggen Summit (1,289 m) offers spectacular panoramic views, though it's a more challenging ascent. The park also has traditional mountain farms and archaeological sites, providing a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage.

For a family day hike in Breheimen, it's crucial to be prepared for changing mountain weather. Pack layers of clothing (including waterproofs), sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water and snacks, a first-aid kit, a map and compass (or a fully charged phone with GPS), and sun protection. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly, especially at higher elevations.

The duration of family-friendly trails varies greatly depending on the route's length and difficulty, as well as your family's pace. Easy trails can range from 1-2 hours, while moderate ones might take 3-5 hours. For example, the View of Jostedalsbreen Glacier – Fantesteinen Pass Summit loop from Sognefjellshytta is about 5.4 km and typically takes around 1 hour 40 minutes, making it a great option for a shorter outing.

The komoot community highly rates Breheimen, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's dramatic and diverse natural features, from its impressive glacial landscapes and towering peaks to its lush valleys and abundant water features. The sense of wilderness and the opportunity for off-the-beaten-path experiences are frequently highlighted.

While Breheimen is a wilderness area, you can often find facilities near popular trailheads or tourist stations. Places like Sognefjellshytta and Krossbu Tourist Station, which serve as starting points for several routes, typically offer amenities including cafes or dining options. It's always a good idea to check opening hours in advance, especially outside peak season.

Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and tourist stations throughout Breheimen. For routes starting near Sognefjellshytta or Krossbu, you'll find designated parking areas. Some more remote trailheads might have limited parking, so it's advisable to plan your route and check for parking information beforehand.