Looking for the best hikes in Lofoten Islands? You’ve come to the right place! I had a chance to spend the summer of 2018 in Reine, which is a main hub for hiking and tourism in Lofoten, and below, I’ve listed 5 of my favourite hikes that will leave you absolutely speechless!
Lofoten Islands is an archipelago located above Arctic Circle in Northern Norway that offers some of the world’s most beautiful and remote landscapes. With its deep fjords, white sand beaches, turquoise waters and jagged peaks, it’s a place that gives you a sense of freedom and serenity, and it’s an absolute paradise for hikers. Oh, and did I mention the charming picturesque villages? Chances are that you’ll never want to leave!
While there is no shortage of amazing views anywhere you go, hiking takes the exploring to a whole new level, so let’s have a look on some of the best hikes in Lofoten Islands that you should add to your bucket list!
MUNKEBU HUT + MUNKEN
Lenght: 10.5 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 508 meters
Duration: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
The trail up to the Munkebu Hut is one of the best hikes in Lofoten Islands that makes for an incredible hiking adventure through the stunning alpine landscapes.
As opposed to many other trails in Lofoten, Munkebu is pretty well marked, so it’s a great introduction hike that offers amazing views along the whole way. The hut is operated by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) and if you wish to spend a night in it, you’ll need to book in advance and obtain the key in Sørvågen community hall.
There is an option to continue and climb up to the Munken peak where you get the views of the cabin from above. If you have the time and energy (additional 1-2 hours), I’d 100% recommend it as the views get even better.
REINEBRINGEN
Lenght: 2.2 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 484 meters
Duration: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Reinebringen is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful hikes in Lofoten Islands that will simply leave you speechless. I’d personally say – if you only have time to do one hike in Lofoten Islands, make sure it’s this one. It’s worth every bit of the hype.
While the trail is less than 3 km long, don’t let the distance fool you. It’s steep and challenging from the beginning to the end, and consists of 1566 sherpa staircase steps that have been finished in 2021 to increase the trail safety and erosion prevention. When I hiked the Reinebringen in 2018, the consturction of the stairs was in early stages and only small part of the trail was done. The rest was a crazy, muddy steep trail, that even felt dangerous at some parts, so I think the stairs must have helped a lot.
Despite the challenging ascend, the trail has become very busy and popular nowadays as it offers iconic views over the fishing villages of Reine, Sakrisøy and Hamnøy in a relatively short time. Be prepared to share the trail with others, especially if visiting in the peak months of July and August.
RYTEN
Lenght: 7.2 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 585 meters
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
The views of Kvalvika beach from the top of Ryten are hard to beat. Who would say you can find golden beaches and turquoise waters like that above the Arctic Circle?!
There are multiple routes to get to Ryten with the most common and convenient one starting at Innersand, and there is also an option to descend down to the Kvalvika beach. Either way, you’ll find a really cool picturesque rock cliff near the peak, that is often described as a mini version of Trolltunga. There is actually a ground below it (still close to the actual cliff though), but if you take the photo from the right angle, you can create a cool illusion of being on a hanging cliff.
HERMANNSDALSTINDEN
Lenght: 20.3 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 1770 meters
Duration: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
At 1029 meters above the sea level, Hermannsdalstinden is the highest mountain on the island of Moskenesøya. This is one of the best hikes in Lofoten for those, who want to really go off the beaten path and truly explore the Lofoten’s wilderness. It’s a long and strenuous hike, but once you make it to the top, you feel like you’re standing on top of the world.
While it is possible to hike Hermannsdalstinden in one day (that’s what I did in 2018), lots of people choose to split it over two days and camp near or at Munkebu Hut (booking ahead with Norwegian Trekking Association is required).
HELVETESTINDEN
Lenght: 8.7 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 602 meters
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Helvetestinden translates as Hell Peak and going up is honestly a bit of a hell as you’ll find yourself scrambling up and along a narrow ridge at the top, however the views of Bunes fjord and Bunes beach are well worth the grind.
This is an adventurous hike in remote area of Lofoten Islands that requires taking a ferry to the tiny port in the village of Vindstad. You can also combine it into a 2 day trip with an overnight camping at the Bunes beach, which I highly recommend!
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO HIKING IN LOFOTEN ISLANDS
» While the mountains in Lofoten aren’t really high comparing to other mountain ranges in the world, the trails to the top are often steeper than you’d expect as you’re always starting at the sea level.
» The best time to go hiking in Lofoten Islands is typically between early June to late September when the trails are free of snow and the days are extremely long. The midnight sun shines from 28 May to 14 July. Hiking in winter should only be attempted by those who have proper avalanche training and equipment.
» The weather in Lofoten Islands can be unpredictable. Always pack extra (waterproof) layers and try to avoid hiking in or immediately after rain as the trails can get extremely muddy and slippery. Check the Yr.no for the most accurate forecast.
» On the other hand, there are no forests in Lofoten Islands and the trails are typically very exposed, so cover your head, wear sunglasses and apply sunscreen if going during a hot summer day.
» There are typically no services around the trailheads, so make sure to bring plenty of water as well as snacks
» Some of the hikes in Lofoten Islands are located in remote areas with poor or no cell service. Have an offline map downloaded in your phone and make sure your battery will last (paper map is even better). We recommend using offline maps from AllTrails or Mapy.cz. Consider carrying satellite communicator such as Garmin inReach (Amazon Canada or Amazon US).
» Proper hiking shoes are neccessary and hiking poles are recommended.
BEST HIKES IN LOFOTEN ISLANDS: FINAL THOUGHTS
Lofoten Islands are one of the best hiking destinations in the world and I’m so happy that you’re planning your trip above the Arctic Circle. Trails mentioned in this list are, according to me, some of the best hikes in Lofoten Islands, and I hope you found the right ones for you!
Check out our hiking guides category for more hiking inspiration around the world!
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