Join NOLS Alumni for another fantastic trip to the Scandinavian wilderness! The sublime snow capped peaks of Norway’s Jotunheimen mountains are one of Europe’s most impressive natural backdrops. This trip traverses glacial valleys filled with alpine lakes, meadows and rocky paths that immerse you in exquisite northern wilderness.

Photo Credit: Simon Beames

The trip begins in Oslo. This vibrant city sits on the Oslofjord and is well worth a couple extra days visit if you can extend your trip. We will kick things off with an afternoon orientation at a hotel in Oslo’s lively downtown. Instructors will review our route, check participant gear and answer any last questions.

The next morning begins with a shuttle to Turtagrø hotel, famous for its role in Norwegian Mountaineering history and a great jumping off point to begin our hike. From Turtagrø we will head into the mountains toward our first backcountry hut.

Hiking days on this trip range from 6 – 13 miles on well marked, rocky trails. This trip offers a challenging level of hiking. Expect significant elevation changes, loose rocky trails with exposure, and a couple required boulder field crossings.

Hiking between huts with light packs is one of the benefits of this trip. All the huts on this trip except one are fully staffed and include excellent meals. The sleeping quarters are bunk room style varying in size and capacity. Cozy fireplaces, down duvets, and showers are standard in these Norwegian huts and are welcome comforts on this early fall trip.

Visiting the Jotunheimen in early fall helps us avoid the summer crowds, but we can still expect to mingle with other travelers from Norway, Europe and around the world. This is part of the lively experience of trekking between mountain huts.

The weather this time of year is variable. Cold temperatures, rain, wind and sunshine are all possibilities. Proper gear is a necessity to be prepared for everything the mountains have in store. 

Mid-trip, we will stay a night at Olavsbu, the only non-serviced hut along the route. Charming and comfortable in its own right, Olavsbu has a stocked pantry and hut kitchen where we will cook our meals together in NOLS expedition style.

The highest mountain range in Norway, Jotunheimen Mountains are full of character and lore. The name“Jotunheimen” comes from Norse mythology that believes that “Jötunn” or giants made their home among these mountains.

This grand backstory fits the Jotunheimen’s grand profile. Gabbro, an erosion-resistant igneous rock gives the mountains their distinct appearance. Jagged glaciated peaks hover over verdant valleys and alpine lakes making the terrain on this trip varied and ever changing.

Our final day ascends the Besseggen Ridge. The trail follows the thin edge of this fin-like feature giving us a taste of exposure and crisp mountain air. Panoramic views of Lake Gjende, Lake Bessvatnet and the rugged mountains fill the horizon. 

The next morning, we will take a shuttle back to Oslo where we will celebrate our trek together with a final dinner out in Oslo. 

This trip is an excellent way to reconnect with NOLS and meet other outdoor minded alumni in a beautiful mountain setting. As always, a good dose of humor and Expedition Behavior is necessary for confronting the unexpected on any challenging NOLS Alumni trip.

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