Hiking trip Mogen-Kinsarvik, Norway Hardangervidda 2008

In May 2008 I made a solo hiking trip across the Hardangervidda in Norway from Mogen (berg hotel) at the end of the Lake Mosvatnet to Kinsarvik. A trip crossing the Hardangervidda from South East to North West.



The Hardangervidda is a mountain plateau ("vidde" in Norwegian) in the Hardanger region of western Norway. It is the largest such plateau in Europe, with a cold year-round alpine climate and is the site of one of Norway's largest glaciers. Much of the plateau is protected as part of Hardangervidda National Park. The landscape of the Hardangervidda is characterised by barren, treeless moorland interrupted by numerous pools, lakes, rivers and streams. There are significant differences between the west side, which is dominated by rocky terrain and expanses of bare rock, and the east side, which is much flatter and more heavily vegetated. The climate also varies between the two sides: it is considerably wetter on the west side than on the east, with over 1,000 mm per year (39 inches) recorded in some parts.

Details:

• Easy trip, but can be difficult with severe weather conditions
• 108 km (5-6 days)
• Overnight stay in tent and/or cabins (plenty of cabins in the area)
• Marked by red T
• 'Turkart 27 & 28'
• Reference 'Bergtochten in Noorwegen' (Jolanda Linschoten, Dominicus Adventures 2006)

Summary of the trip
I flew from Amsterdam to Oslo and then by Bus to Rjukan (Youthhostel). Next day hitch hiked to Mosvassdammen to take ferry across the lake Mosevatnet to the berghotel Mogen. From Mogen to the cabin Lagaros where I slept. Nice and manned. Next day passing South of Borjensfjorden towards Sandhaug (large cabin) and camped alongside the Nordmannslagen. Up to this day the weather was quite good, windy and some showers but also sun. The weather remained stable and the next day I went to Hadlaskard (cabin) arriving at lunch time. Then South heading for Harteigen (stepp hill, very consicious point).

Just before Harteigen I camped at a small nameless lake. The weathter deteriorated during the day and would become worse the rest of the trip with wind, rain, hail and snow..The next morning I passed Torehytten (cabin) to go straight to Stavali (manned cabin). This day was really though with very bad weather and poor visibility. I had a warm welcom at Stavali. After a good meal, meeting nice people and a good sleep the last part was down to Kinsarvik. Very slippy route in wet weather! From Kinsarvik with Bus to Bergen where I stayed in the Youth hostel. Flew back from Bergen to Amsterdam.

Recommendation
This trip gives you a good impression of the Hardangervidda plateau because you cross it from East to West. Although the trail itself is not difficult and with plenty of cabins, be aware of quickly changing weather conditions. The area is known for its harsh environment.

For more picures please click here