Trolltunga Hiking Tours: How to Prepare and Possible Difficulties

Trolltunga, which can be translated as the “troll tongue,” has become a popular place for hiking during the last decade. Yet, many tourists who dare to embark on that hike come unprepared, which later leads to their frustration or even worse consequences. Unlike Pulpit Rock, Trolltunga, located at an altitude of over 1,100 meters above sea level, tends to be a strenuous hike, with at least 10-12 hours of non-stop ascending and descending. In this article, we are going to uncover the difficulties one may face during Trolltunga hiking tours.

 

 

Time spent on hiking: from 10 to 12  hours.

Season: from June 15 to September 15.

Difficulty: Strenuous.

Elevation gain: 900 meters.

The distance on the way up and back: 22 kilometers.

Things You Should Be Aware of Before Your Trolltunga Hiking

Anyone who decides to attempt hiking Trolltunga should be aware of the conditions there. Besides, there are “basic mountaineering rules” one should be aware of, as well as specialties of this geographical location. Here, we provide you with a list of what you must be aware of prior to venturing to hike Trolltunga:

1. Wind. The winds are strong in the mountains, but especially that stands true for such a country as Norway, which is located in the north. Therefore, we would recommend you bring windproof clothing with you and a hat or something else (like buff) for protecting your ears.
2. Visibility. When you embark on a Trolltunga hike, you most definitely expect to take stunning photos. Yet, visibility may deteriorate due to fog and unfavorable weather conditions, which is a common thing in the mountains. This may not only spoil your photos but also make your ascent/descent riskier.
3. Fast–Changing Weather. No matter whether it is going about the Norwegian mountains, the Alps, or the Caucasus, fast-changing weather is inherent to any mountain system. Yet, the weather tends to change faster in the northern mountains, and Norwegian mountains definitely fall into that category. This means that it may start raining even if 30 minutes ago the sky was clear and the sun was shining, not to say anything about the fog and wind we have mentioned before. Considering that you have a long way to the top and back, don’t fall for this trick thinking the weather seems good. It may change rapidly, so you need to take all the necessary clothing and equipment.
4. Low Temperature. Considering that you are in Norway, it shouldn’t appear to be a surprise for you. Yet, the weather temperature on the Trolltunga in the middle of an August day may vary from 8 to 12 Celsius Degrees – and it is considered to be good weather! Don’t forget to take warm clothes, indeed.
5. The First Kilometer of Hiking. The first kilometer of the hike tends to be the most difficult, where you will have to experience steep climbing by using stone steps. Once this kilometer is ended, the trail will get smoother.
6. No Mobile Connection. Be aware that mobile and internet connection will be quite limited in the mountains.

Getting Prepared for Trolltunga Hiking

As you could notice, Trolltunga is not an easy hike and requires a great deal of preparation. Hiking Trolltunga is a serious challenge and understating its level of difficulty would be a mistake. In this section, you can learn about how you can prepare for ascending Trolltunga.

1. Keep yourself in a good shape. 10-12 hours of non-stop ascending and descending is a serious challenge and not every person is capable of it. Though, experienced trekkers and climbers are able to get their way to the top and back within 8-9 hours. In any case, it is recommended to have a previous experience in climbing or serious trekking before embarking on a Trolltunga hike. If you have doubts about your physical state, it is most likely that you shouldn’t go to Trolltunga. We would rather recommend you go hiking to Pulpit Rock.
2. Someone in your group must have the First Aid Kit. Without a doubt, it should include painkillers, antibiotics, drugs for personal use, bandages, other equipment (tweezers, scissors, tourniquets, etc.), and other drugs that might be needed.
3. You should bring warm clothes. Above, you can find the reasons why you should take warm clothes. Actually, we would recommend you have trekking boots, a windproof jacket with windproof trekking trousers, and other warm clothes. Other clothing items may particularly include pullovers made of fleece, the material that is especially preferred by trekkers and alpinists (it’s light, it warms even when wet, it’s easy to fold comfortably, and occupies just a little bit of space, etc.). Thermal underwear and tactical socks are recommended as well. Some people also get down jackets – this clothing item will ensure that you won’t get cold for sure. Take raincoats in case it starts raining!
4. Start early. Every ascent into the mountains is recommended to start early since the weather tends to be best before midday. Besides, you should spend at least 12 hours going the way up and back and return until it gets dark. Therefore, starting early is an essential component of a successful Trolltunga hike.
5. Think about the food you will eat during your hike. It is recommended that your food contains a lot of carbohydrates, which will supply you with energy. Also, don’t forget about the snacks you can eat while going up or down: energy bars, cookies, sandwiches, and similar food items are decent options. Water is essential to stay hydrated during the hike.
6. Additional equipment. Think of anything that might be of use to you. For example, the lights may be needed if you dare to start your hike late (which is not recommended!). You may also need a 30-35 liter backpack in order to place all the clothes and equipment there.

Trolltunga Hiking Tours from Our Company

Even though there are plenty of Trolltunga guided tours on the market, we have come up with quite a unique hiking tour. Typically, Trolltunga hiking tours include only an ascent to Trolltunga. Oftentimes, tourist companies combine this ascent with hiking Preikestolen and, more rarely, Kjeragbolten. And getting such a Trolltunga hiking tour may be a good idea if you would like to hike a couple of Norway’s most famous trekking routes.

Yet, if you want to combine hiking in Norway with sightseeing, our Trolltunga and Pulpit Rock Hiking Tour would be a perfect choice. Unlike many other Trolltunga guided tours, this tour is not limited solely to hiking Preikestolen and Trolltunga. You will also have a chance to witness the famous Låtefossen and Steinsdalsfossen waterfalls, hike to Buer, explore Bergen and Oslo on sightseeing tours, and, after all, experience a fantastic cruise across the stunning Naeroyfjord. A Flåmsbana ride, the world’s most scenic railway ride, is included, too!

Besides, this Trolltunga hiking tour provides you with a great deal of comfort. If you think that you are ready for hiking Trolltunga, you can order the tour on our website.

Also, you can also find out about the top 10 hikes and treks in Norway on our website!

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