The best running trails around Hardangervidda

Hardangervidda offers a diverse running experience. You'll find expansive, treeless moorland with unparalleled panoramic views, particularly on the eastern side which is generally flatter. The western side features more rocky expanses and rolling fells, remnants of mountains shaped by glaciers. The entire area is above the tree line, providing a unique alpine landscape. Be prepared for varied surfaces, from more accessible paths to challenging natural mountain terrain.

While many routes in Hardangervidda are rated as difficult, there are options for those seeking a more moderate challenge. For example, the Øvstebrufossen Waterfall loop from Kinnali kraftverk is a moderate 5 km (3.1 miles) route that offers a less strenuous experience while still providing scenic views.

Hardangervidda is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see countless pools, lakes, rivers, and streams. The region is also famous for its dramatic waterfalls. The Husedalen Valley Four Waterfalls Trail, for instance, leads past four impressive waterfalls, including the Four Waterfalls highlight. You might also encounter the highly photographed Vøringsfossen waterfall, which tumbles 182 meters down the mountain, as seen on the Vøringsfossen loop from Tverrlihaugen.

Yes, Hardangervidda offers several excellent circular running routes. The Running loop from Maurset is a popular 11.3 km (7.0 miles) circular trail through the open landscape. Another great option is the Vivelid and Valurfossen Loop, which provides majestic waterfall views and vast plateau vistas on its 12.7 km (7.9 miles) circuit.

The running trails in Hardangervidda vary in length and duration. Based on available routes, you can find trails ranging from approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) to over 13 km (8 miles). A moderate 5 km route might take around 35-40 minutes, while more difficult trails like the 11.5 km (7.1 miles) Husedalen Valley Four Waterfalls Trail can take around 1 hour 45 minutes due to significant elevation gain.

The running routes in Hardangervidda are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 200 runners have used komoot to explore the region's varied terrain, often praising the stunning, unspoiled natural beauty and the true sense of wilderness that Europe's largest mountain plateau offers.

The best time for running in Hardangervidda is typically during the summer months. The plateau has a cold, year-round alpine climate, and even in summer, weather conditions can change rapidly. While the trails are generally more accessible then, it's always wise to be prepared for various weather scenarios due to the remote and wild nature of the area.

Amenities are generally scarce in the remote Hardangervidda region. However, there are some huts available for shelter or overnight stays. Notable options include DNT Rauhelleren and Litlos Lodge. It's advisable to plan your route and carry necessary supplies, as facilities are not always readily available directly on the trails.

Specific parking information varies by trailhead. For many routes, you'll find designated parking areas, often near starting points for popular trails or access roads. Given the remote nature of Hardangervidda, it's recommended to research parking options for your chosen route in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure a smooth start to your run.

Hardangervidda is home to unique flora and fauna, including one of the largest wild reindeer herds in the world. While encountering wildlife like reindeer requires luck due to their migratory nature and the vastness of the plateau, the possibility adds to the wilderness appeal of a run. You'll also observe distinct alpine vegetation, such as dwarf shrubs and willows.

Komoot features a comprehensive selection of running routes in Hardangervidda, with a total of 16 tours available. These routes cater to various fitness levels, though the majority, 13 of them, are rated as difficult, offering a significant challenge for experienced runners.