×

Norway🇳🇴 | national parksFolgefonna National Parkblue glacier, meltwater lakes, birch forest, ice caves | things to do and best time to go

Explore Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National ParkExplore Lofotodden National Park

Backpacking in Folgefonna
🌟 Highlightnational park ranked #7
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 30, 2026

Most people only realize after they leave that Folgefonna is one of the few places in western Norway where you can get real glacier time without committing to a full-on expedition or multi-day sufferfest. It sits on the Hardangerfjord side of Vestland county, roughly between Bergen and Haugesund, with villages like Jondal and Odda as common gateways. As a backpacker, you get big ice, steep fjord views, and quiet valleys, but also short, punchy day hikes rather than endless hut-to-hut traverses. Trails can be wet, wayfinding patchy in fog, and the weather turns fast. No entrance fee, but glacier tours and buses add up. Camping is easy under Norway’s outdoor access rules, though flat, dry spots near the ice are limited. Compared with Hardangervidda or Jotunheimen, Folgefonna feels smaller, moodier, and more about ice than peaks.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Norway Travel Guide.


Get your Norway guide
103 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (393 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Find me the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #7 national park in NorwayWhy visitors keep coming back

Backpackers flock to Folgefonna National Park for its blend of independent exploration and stunning landscapes. The park offers a variety of trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes, catering to all skill levels. This diversity allows you to tailor your adventure without the constraints of guided tours.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the nearby camping options and affordable hostels, making it easy to stretch your funds. The park’s layout encourages self-guided exploration, letting you set your own pace and discover hidden spots that tours often miss.

Be mindful of weather changes; they can shift quickly, impacting your plans. Packing layers and checking forecasts will keep you prepared, ensuring your energy and budget are preserved for the moments that truly matter.
Want to include Folgefonna National Park in your Norway route?
Create a personalized Norway itinerary that includes Folgefonna National Park and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsPlaces and moments you shouldn't skip

  • Folgefonna ice cap: The park’s centerpiece — a huge, blue-tinged ice cap you can see for miles. It’s one of mainland Norway’s biggest glaciers, with dramatic crevasses, ice ridges and sweeping views that show glacier and fjord side-by-side.
  • Buarbreen (Buar glacier tongue): A striking glacier arm you can actually hike to in a day. Short, photo-friendly trail that ends at the glacier front — great for close-up ice textures without a multi-day trek.
  • Bondhusbreen and Bondhusvatnet: A postcard scene — a turquoise glacial lake tucked under a steep mountain and the Bondhus glacier above. The walk to the lake is scenic and manageable for most fit day-hikers.
  • Guided glacier hikes & ice experiences: The safest (and most fun) way to explore the ice. Local guides run crampon-and-rope trips, ice tunnels
… read more 👉
  • Folgefonna ice cap: The park’s centerpiece — a huge, blue-tinged ice cap you can see for miles. It’s one of mainland Norway’s biggest glaciers, with dramatic crevasses, ice ridges and sweeping views that show glacier and fjord side-by-side.
  • Buarbreen (Buar glacier tongue): A striking glacier arm you can actually hike to in a day. Short, photo-friendly trail that ends at the glacier front — great for close-up ice textures without a multi-day trek.
  • Bondhusbreen and Bondhusvatnet: A postcard scene — a turquoise glacial lake tucked under a steep mountain and the Bondhus glacier above. The walk to the lake is scenic and manageable for most fit day-hikers.
  • Guided glacier hikes & ice experiences: The safest (and most fun) way to explore the ice. Local guides run crampon-and-rope trips, ice tunnels and basic glacier courses — you’ll actually walk on the ice and learn the ropes.
  • Hardangerfjord panoramas: From higher trails you get those jaw-dropping contrasts: white ice fields dropping toward deep blue fjord water. Sunrise/sunset from these viewpoints is worth planning for if the weather plays nice.
  • High alpine plateaus and summer wildflowers: Away from the ice edge the park opens into tundra-like plateaus. In summer the short growing season bursts with alpine flowers and the quiet feels huge — excellent for easy ridge walks and birdwatching.
  • Glacial valleys and waterfalls (Sundal/Buardalen area): Classic U-shaped valleys carved by ice, lined with waterfalls and steep cliffs. These sheltered valleys feel remote but are often reached by pleasant valley trails from small settlements.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do near Folgefonna National Park

Glacier Kayaking in Folgefonna

Glacier Kayaking in Folgefonna

0.0(0) 4h
✓ Free cancellation
From €170
per personViator
Bergen - Rosendal full day round-cruise

Bergen - Rosendal full day round-cruise

0.0(0)
✓ Free cancellation
From €5,082
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 103 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing


  • Weather: The best weather for backpacking in Folgefonna National Park is from late June to early September. Outside this window, expect heavy snow and freezing conditions that make trails treacherous or impassable.

  • Temperature: Summer highs hover around 12-18°C (54-64°F), which is cool but comfortable for hiking. Winters plunge well below freezing, often -5°C to -15°C (23-5°F), demanding specialized gear.

  • Daylight Hours: In summer, you get nearly 20 hours of daylight, giving you plenty of time to cover ground without rushing. Winter days shrink to just a few hours, limiting hiking opportunities.

  • Crowds: July and August see the most visitors, especially on popular glacier routes. If you want solitude, aim for late June or early September when the park is quieter but still accessible.
… read more 👉

  • Weather: The best weather for backpacking in Folgefonna National Park is from late June to early September. Outside this window, expect heavy snow and freezing conditions that make trails treacherous or impassable.

  • Temperature: Summer highs hover around 12-18°C (54-64°F), which is cool but comfortable for hiking. Winters plunge well below freezing, often -5°C to -15°C (23-5°F), demanding specialized gear.

  • Daylight Hours: In summer, you get nearly 20 hours of daylight, giving you plenty of time to cover ground without rushing. Winter days shrink to just a few hours, limiting hiking opportunities.

  • Crowds: July and August see the most visitors, especially on popular glacier routes. If you want solitude, aim for late June or early September when the park is quieter but still accessible.

  • Seasonal Activities: Summer opens up glacier hiking, fishing, and wildflower spotting. Winter is for experienced ski tourers only; most trails are closed or dangerous.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and guided tours peak in summer, so book early or consider camping to save money. Off-season rates drop but come with limited services and harsher conditions.


Pro-tip: Plan your trip for early July to balance decent weather, manageable crowds, and extended daylight—this combo preserves your energy and wallet for the real adventure.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: below average for travelingFEBFebruary: below average for travelingMARMarch: below average for travelingAPRApril: fair for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: excellent for travelingAUGAugust: excellent for travelingSEPSeptember: highly recommended for travelingOCTOctober: fair for travelingNOVNovember: below average for travelingDECDecember: below average for traveling
norway-national-park-folgefonna-national-park
© Google |

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutNorway Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Norway
The digital guide (393 pages) contains:
✅ 103 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 5, 10 & 15-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ 52 Essential phrases & customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.


By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

Folgefonna National Park offers limited accommodation options directly within its boundaries. Most backpackers find their base in nearby towns like Odda or Rosendal. Odda, with its vibrant atmosphere, has several hostels and budget-friendly hotels. The Odda Hostel is a solid choice, providing a communal vibe and easy access to trailheads.

If you prefer a quieter setting, Rosendal is charming and offers guesthouses like Rosendal Turisthotell. It’s a bit more upscale but worth it for the views and local charm.

Camping is also an option in the park, but be prepared for unpredictable weather. Always … read more 👉
Folgefonna National Park offers limited accommodation options directly within its boundaries. Most backpackers find their base in nearby towns like Odda or Rosendal. Odda, with its vibrant atmosphere, has several hostels and budget-friendly hotels. The Odda Hostel is a solid choice, providing a communal vibe and easy access to trailheads.

If you prefer a quieter setting, Rosendal is charming and offers guesthouses like Rosendal Turisthotell. It’s a bit more upscale but worth it for the views and local charm.

Camping is also an option in the park, but be prepared for unpredictable weather. Always check local regulations regarding wild camping.

Avoid the tourist traps in both towns; focus on local eateries for authentic Norwegian cuisine. This way, you’ll save your budget for experiences that truly matter, like guided glacier hikes or fjord tours.
Best hostels in Norway


Best quality hotels in Norway

👛 Costs (as of 17 March 2026)What things cost and how to budget

Visiting Folgefonna National Park in Norway can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid surprises.

Entry to the park is free, which is a great start. However, if you plan to use guided tours or specific activities, those will come with fees. Guided glacier hikes typically range from €100 to €150 per person. If you’re looking to rent equipment, like crampons or ice axes, expect to pay around €20 to €30 per day.

Accommodation options vary widely. Camping is a budget-friendly choice, costing about €10 to €20 per night for a pitch. If you prefer a cabin or lodge, prices can range from €70 to €150 per night, depending on the season and amenities.

Transportation is another factor. If you’re driving, budget for fuel and parking fees, which can add … read more 👉
Visiting Folgefonna National Park in Norway can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid surprises.

Entry to the park is free, which is a great start. However, if you plan to use guided tours or specific activities, those will come with fees. Guided glacier hikes typically range from €100 to €150 per person. If you’re looking to rent equipment, like crampons or ice axes, expect to pay around €20 to €30 per day.

Accommodation options vary widely. Camping is a budget-friendly choice, costing about €10 to €20 per night for a pitch. If you prefer a cabin or lodge, prices can range from €70 to €150 per night, depending on the season and amenities.

Transportation is another factor. If you’re driving, budget for fuel and parking fees, which can add up quickly. Public transport options are available, but they may not be as frequent, especially in the off-season.

Food costs can also catch you off guard. Dining at local restaurants can set you back €15 to €30 per meal. If you’re self-catering, grocery prices in Norway can be higher than in many other countries, so plan accordingly.

Overall, while the park itself is free to enter, the additional costs for activities, accommodation, and food can add up. Being aware of these expenses will help you allocate your budget wisely and ensure you have the energy for the experiences that truly matter.


source: visitnorway.com
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🥾 TrailsTrail guide for Folgefonna national park

Folgefonna National Park is a gem tucked away in Norway, offering hikers a blend of stunning scenery and diverse terrain. You’ll find yourself surrounded by impressive glaciers, lush valleys, and shimmering lakes. The park’s trails vary from easy strolls to challenging scrambles, so there’s something for everyone. Keep an eye out for wildlife like reindeer and various bird species, adding a touch of magic to your trek.

One of the standout trails is Folgefonna Glacier Trail. Here are the details:
  • Length: 10 km
  • Estimated Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Key Features: Glacial views, waterfalls,
… read more 👉
Folgefonna National Park is a gem tucked away in Norway, offering hikers a blend of stunning scenery and diverse terrain. You’ll find yourself surrounded by impressive glaciers, lush valleys, and shimmering lakes. The park’s trails vary from easy strolls to challenging scrambles, so there’s something for everyone. Keep an eye out for wildlife like reindeer and various bird species, adding a touch of magic to your trek.

One of the standout trails is Folgefonna Glacier Trail. Here are the details:
  • Length: 10 km
  • Estimated Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Key Features: Glacial views, waterfalls, and panoramic mountain vistas
  • Terrain: Mixed, with some rocky sections and well-marked paths

Getting to the park is pretty straightforward. You can hop on a bus from Bergen, which takes you to the nearby village of Jondal. From there, it’s a short ride to the park entrance. As for crowds, it can get busy during the summer months, especially on weekends, so try to hit the trails early or on weekdays if you can. There’s no entrance fee, so you can just lace up your boots and hit the trails without breaking the bank.
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyScams, Hazards, and Annoyances

Folgefonna National Park offers a rewarding experience, but it’s wise to stay grounded. Weather can shift rapidly; pack layers and be ready for rain or sun. The trails are generally well-marked, yet some sections can be steep or rocky, so good footwear is essential.

Keep an eye out for river crossings, especially in spring when snowmelt raises water levels. Wildlife encounters are rare, but if you spot a reindeer or a bird, observe from a distance. Respect their space.

Plan your hikes early in the day to avoid afternoon weather changes. With the right preparation, you can focus on the stunning landscapes without unnecessary stress.
Check Country Safety

Other Norwegian national parks near Folgefonna

Explore more nearby:

  • Hardangervidda—vast plateau, trout lakes, stone shelters, open moorland| 62 km away
  • Sognefjord—deep fjord, steep cliffs, ferry crossings, fruit orchards| 128 km away
  • Jostedalsbreen—ice fields, crevasses, glacial rivers, blue ice caves| 192 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Norway including Folgefonna and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all national parks

Or checkout all Norway has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Norway
Country photo of Norway
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

Folgefonna National Park is a treasure for those who crave solitude and stunning glacier views. You’ll find trails that lead you into the heart of nature, away from the crowds. Just be prepared for the weather—it can change on a dime. Bring layers and a solid plan, or you might find yourself soaked and shivering instead of soaking in the scenery.

✈️ When did I visit Norway?
Having played floorball, a sport large in the nordic countries, I have visited Norway as well a couple of times from 1999 to 2008.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Norway, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full Norway guide •
Instant download • 103 highlights • Full Offline guide