This challenging summit hike to Gaustatoppen from Rjukan takes you up the northern side of the mountain. With an ascent of around 1,600 metres, this is a full-day adventure for experienced hikers. The hike is about 10 km one way and takes around 6-8 hours. If you prefer a slightly shorter hike, you could start at Selstali Seter instead.
Park at Rjukan Rutebilstasjon and start the hike there. This is the toughest part of the hike. The trail from Rjukan up to Selstali Seter is steep and very tough. When you get to Selstali Seter, follow the same trail as the hikers who are beginning their hike there. The last part from Selstali Seter is a bit flatter, but it’s also tough.
The mountain-top hike to Gaustatoppen from Rjukan is challenging and you’ll need to be physically fit. This hike can be done from mid-June to September, but make sure that you always dress according to the varying weather conditions on Gaustatoppen.
This hike is marked ‘difficult’ and has several sections with loose gravel. You can begin your hike at Selstali Seter if you don’t want your pulse to rise quite as much.
Dress appropriately and follow the Norwegian mountain safety code, a set of rules and advice that you should always have with you when you go out on the mountains. For example, make sure that you always plan your hike carefully and be prepared for bad weather and the cold, even on short hikes.
Would you like to access the 3D map from your smartphone? Download the Gausta app from the App Store or Google Play! The app also has plenty of other useful information for your visit to Gausta.