Besseggen Ridge
Innlandet
Besseggen Ridge is a renowned mountain ridge located in Vågå Municipality within Innlandet county, Norway. Situated in the Jotunheimen mountains and inside Jotunheimen National Park, the ridge rises to 1,634 meters and lies between two striking lakes: Gjende and Bessvatnet. The hiking trail over Besseggen is among Norway's most popular, attracting around 30,000 to 50,000 hikers annually. The route commonly begins at Gjendesheim, ascends to the highest point at Veslfjellet (1,743 meters), traverses the ridge itself, and descends toward Memurubu where hikers can catch a ferry back. The hike takes approximately 5 to 7 hours without breaks. A unique highlight is the contrasting colors of the lakes: Gjende's green hue results from glacier runoff containing rock flour, while Bessvatnet displays a typical blue color. The ridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Due to heavy foot traffic, erosion has been a concern, leading to restoration efforts including the installation of stone plates to preserve the trail. Besseggen is also culturally significant, famously referenced in Henrik Ibsen's play "Peer Gynt" and Norwegian literature. The combination of natural beauty, challenging terrain, and cultural heritage makes Besseggen a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Tip: The best time to hike Besseggen is during the summer months when the trail is clear of snow and ferry services operate regularly between Gjendesheim and Memurubu. It is advisable to start early in the day to allow ample time for the 5–7 hour hike and to avoid crowds. Purchasing ferry tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear and bring sufficient water and snacks. Due to trail erosion concerns, staying on marked paths is important. Check weather forecasts before the hike, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Some discounts may be available for ferry tickets or guided tours through local providers.
Interesting facts
- •The green color of Lake Gjende is due to glacier runoff containing rock flour, contrasting with the blue color of neighboring Lake Bessvatnet.
- •Approximately 30,000 to 50,000 hikers traverse Besseggen annually, making it one of Norway's most popular mountain hikes.
- •A race called "Besseggløpet" was held in the early 1960s, with a record time of 1 hour 16 minutes and 48 seconds set in 1963 that still stands.
- •Besseggen is famously mentioned in Henrik Ibsen's play "Peer Gynt," where the protagonist boasts about riding over the ridge on a reindeer bull.
- •Trail restoration in 2005 included flying stone plates by helicopter to prevent erosion, as mass extraction of stone from Jotunheimen National Park is prohibited.
History
Besseggen Ridge has been a notable natural landmark for centuries, with early human activity evidenced by Stone Age artifacts found in the region.
The name derives from the lake Bessvatnet and the Norwegian word "egg," meaning ridge or edge.
The area was sparsely mapped until the 19th century when explorers like Baltazar Mathias Keilhau and Christen Smith documented the region.
The ridge gained literary fame through Henrik Ibsen's 1867 play "Peer Gynt," where the protagonist claims to have ridden across Besseggen on a reindeer.
The trail was formalized in the late 19th century by the Norwegian Trekking Association, which erected cairns to guide hikers.
Due to increasing tourism, the Norwegian government funded trail restoration in 2005 to prevent erosion, using stone plates flown in by helicopter to protect the fragile environment.
Place Guide
Veslfjellet Peak
The highest point on the Besseggen hike at 1,743 meters, offering panoramic views over the lakes and surrounding Jotunheimen mountains. It is the ascent's summit before descending along the ridge.
Besseggen Ridge Trail
The narrow and steep ridge section that runs between Lake Gjende and Lake Bessvatnet. It is the most iconic and challenging part of the hike, providing dramatic views of the contrasting lakes below.
Bandet
A relatively flat area at the foot of Besshøe mountain, approximately 1,600 meters above sea level. It serves as a resting point before the final ascent or descent along the ridge.
Memurubu
The endpoint of the hike where visitors can rest or stay overnight. Memurubu offers access to a ferry service back to Gjendesheim, completing the popular hiking loop.
