13. Trolltunga, Norway

Article by Marko Bucic - 57hours Writer and Bouldering Enthusiast

Hiker sitting at the edge of the Trolltunga rock in Norway — ***Trolltunga was formed during the Ice Age 10,000 years ago, when glacier water froze in the cracks of the mountain and broke off in large chunks, leaving this protruding rock hanging in the air.***

When it comes to trekking in Europe, the Trolltunga trail in Western Norway stands with the best of them. This scenic 28-kilometer (17.4 miles) out-and-back trail will take you through the Nordic wilderness and up to a majestic cliff jutting out 700 meters (2,300 feet) above Ringedalsvatnet Lake.

The trail can be challenging, especially during bad weather, as it involves some steep climbs and river crossings. However, most of the difficulty stems from the length of the trail. If you’re planning on doing it one day, make sure to start early. But if you’d like to immerse yourself in the untouched nature, consider camping under the northern sky.

The name Trolltunga translates to Troll’s tongue. Why, you ask? According to legend, there once was a troll who, thinking himself immortal, stuck out his tongue to mock the sun and was in turn petrified. As you journey through Norway’s vast landscapes shaped by ancient glaciers, you will be humbled just the same. Deep fjords, valleys, and waterfalls—this unique hike has them in spades.

About the author

Marko Bucic

57hours Writer and Bouldering Enthusiast

For Marko, literature came first and the outdoors followed. Lermontov took him galloping across the Caucasus, Wordsworth brought him along for a tour of the Lake District, and Conrad sent him sailing down the Congo—but for better or worse, it was 57hours that got him to climb his first route outside. When he’s not penning articles, you can find him in the bouldering gym, taking photos on the streets of Zagreb, or at home brushing up on his Japanese skills.

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