Aurlandsdalen

A valley walk through Norwegian history, Aurlandsdalen descends from the mountain plateau above the Aurlandsfjord toward the fjord village of Aurland, and its most popular section is one of the country's best-loved day hikes. The classic stretch from Østerbø to Vassbygdi runs about 20 km and takes six to seven hours, though the full route from Finse spans several days.

The valley is often called Norway's Grand Canyon, narrowing between towering walls with the river thundering below, past waterfalls, old summer farms and cliff-hugging paths. The landscape shifts from bare high plateau to lush lower valley, and abandoned farmsteads recall a droving route used for centuries between east and west Norway.

The popular section is moderate but exposed, following a rocky path with steep drops, ladders and chains in places, so sure footing is needed. Mountain lodges run by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) — at Finse, Geiteryggen and Østerbø — provide beds and meals on the longer route, and the day section is walked without camping. No permit is required, and Norway's access laws allow responsible wild camping.

The old trading path once carried livestock and goods across the mountains, and its dramatic scenery later made it a touring classic. The season is short, roughly July to late September, once the snow has cleared the high ground and before autumn storms; the valley floor stays green into September, while the upper plateau can see snow at any time, so walkers check conditions before setting out.