Hiking in Jotunheimen
A hike in Jotunheimen starting from Krossbu offers magnificent nature experiences in every direction. The trails lead through open high-mountain terrain with wide views of the mighty Smørstabbtindan range, the distinctive Fannaråken and Steindalsnosi, while the alpine peaks of Hurrungane rise on the horizon. This is a landscape shaped by ice and time, with glaciers, rocky terrain and green mountain ridges – perfect for relaxed day hikes, photography and a true sense of mountain tranquility.
From Krossbu, you can set out on summit hikes, follow marked trails, or simply walk where your feet take you beyond the trail network. The terrain around Krossbu is generally easy to walk and offers good visibility, making it well suited for exploring freely outside marked routes. No matter which direction you choose, you are rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Hiking on Sognefjellet is usually at its best from July onwards. Early in the summer, there may still be considerable snow in the terrain, and it often takes some time before the snow melts and the trails dry out. When conditions are at their best, the area offers outstanding hiking opportunities.
Krosshøe – An Easy Summit with Great Views
Starting directly behind Krossbu, the hike to Krosshøe (1,627 m a.s.l.) is a relatively easy and pleasant walk through open and manageable terrain. Most of the ascent is done in the initial slopes, followed by a gentle and steady climb all the way to the summit.
Along the route and from the top, you are rewarded with fantastic views of many of Jotunheimen’s peaks, making this hike a popular choice for short day trips and relaxed mountain experiences.
The hike can also be done as a scenic loop. Follow the marked trail from Krossbu over Krosshøe, descend on the far side toward Sognefjellshytta, and then return to Krossbu along the marked trail. This is a beautiful circular hike in easy terrain, with stunning views for much of the way.
Storbreatinden
Storbreatinden (2018 masl) is an excellent choice if you want a rewarding summit hike in more accessible terrain. The route follows the same path as Store Smørstabbtind at first, before branching off towards Storbreatinden. From the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The hike can be extended to Veslbreatinden (2092 masl) for those looking for a longer day in the mountains.
At Krossbu, the mountains are never far away – every hike begins with stepping straight into the heart of Jotunheimen’s wild and beautiful highlands.
The Geo Trail – Scenic Loop from Krossbu
The Geo Trail is a beautiful circular hike through gentle mountain terrain, ideal for both adults and children. Along the entire route, informative signs share fascinating insights into the area’s geology, landscape, and natural history, making the walk both educational and enjoyable.
Distance: Approx. 6 km
Duration: About 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
The hike starts at the footbridge by the campsite and finishes at the Krossbu parking area. After heavy rainfall, some streams may be slightly challenging to cross, but under normal conditions they are easy and manageable.
The Geo Trail offers a perfect combination of learning and nature, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed and rewarding day in the mountains.
Hikes to the Glacier Edge – Experience the Power of Ice
From Krossbu, you can easily walk right up to the edge of the glacier and experience the dramatic meeting between ice and mountain. These hikes offer spectacular scenery and a true high-mountain atmosphere, perfect for both short excursions and memorable day trips. You are free to hike to the glacier edge on your own, but stepping onto the glacier itself requires roped travel with a certified guide.
Bøverbreen Glacier
An easy and highly rewarding hike that starts directly from the Krossbu campsite. Follow a clear and well-used trail all the way to a glacial lake at the foot of the glacier, beneath the impressive Store Smørstabbtind. The hike takes about one hour uphill, with a steady ascent and a short rocky section across the moraine at the end.
At the glacier’s edge, you are met with breathtaking views of blue ice and towering mountains – and on warm summer days, the adventurous can enjoy a refreshing dip in the icy glacial lake.
Leirbreen Glacier
A beautiful hike offering a slightly different perspective of the glacial landscape. From the campsite, cross the small footbridge and follow a well-marked trail into the valley before it climbs toward the glacier front. The final section crosses smooth rock slabs and loose stones, adding a sense of adventure to the walk.
The hike takes about one hour from Krossbu and rewards you with close-up views of the glacier and a powerful natural experience in the heart of Jotunheimen.
Hikes in Hurrungane – Alpine Adventures
With a car, it takes about 30 minutes to drive from Krossbu to the starting points for hikes in the Hurrungane range. This dramatic alpine area offers some of the most spectacular peaks in Jotunheimen, with routes suited for experienced hikers and dedicated mountaineers alike.
Notable peaks and mountain groups include:
- Skagastølstindane
- Dyrhaugsstindane
- Styggedalstindane
- Maradalstindane
- Austbottentindane
- Soleibotntindane
Hurrungane is known for its steep terrain, sharp ridges, and breathtaking views. With its challenging routes and iconic summits, it is one of the most popular and impressive high-mountain areas in Jotunheimen.
Easy and Scenic Mountain Walks
The area around Krossbu offers a wide range of beautiful hikes that are not demanding and do not involve summit ascents. These tours are perfect for relaxed days in the mountains, with stunning scenery and a true high-mountain atmosphere.
We are happy to help you with tips and route suggestions – just stop by the reception for advice. You can also purchase detailed maps of Jotunheimen East and West at the reception, useful companions for planning your hikes.
