St. Olavsleden

One of the great advantages of hiking the St. Olavsleden is the diversity of landscapes you will encounter along the way. From dense forests and tranquil lakes to open fields and mountains, the trail offers a wide variety of beautiful scenery. As you make your way through rural villages and historical landmarks, you will not only experience nature but also immerse yourself in the local culture and history. The entire trail is well-marked, making it easy to navigate, so you can focus on enjoying the journey without worrying about getting lost.

The trail is divided into several different types of paths and roads. Approximately 45% of the route follows gravel roads, making for a relatively easy walk. About 36% of the trail is on asphalt, which might be less comfortable for some hikers, but these sections are often where you will pass through villages and towns, providing opportunities to rest and resupply. The remaining 19% consists of trails through forests, fields, and more remote areas. The variation in trail surfaces means that you will encounter different challenges along the way, but it also means that the journey never becomes monotonous.

One of the highlights of walking the St. Olavsleden is the sense of pilgrimage. The trail follows the path that many pilgrims walked to reach the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, where the remains of St. Olav are buried. Although the trail has a rich religious history, it attracts people of all beliefs today.

Hiking the St. Olavsleden is a flexible and accessible adventure for people of all fitness levels and preferences. Whether you choose to walk the entire trail in one go, complete it over several years, or combine it with other modes of transport, the journey is yours to define.

The trail is most accessible from mid-May through mid-September. Before and after this period, there is a high chance of snow or snow remnants on the route. Early in the season, you may encounter large swarms of mosquitoes. It is said that from late June to mid-August, the number of mosquitoes is much lower. However, the weather remains unpredictable throughout the season. Experiencing four seasons in one day is not uncommon and should not be dismissed as an exaggeration. Rain and sunshine, cold or warmth—it’s always a surprise, adding to the sense of adventure that the trail offers.

It is crucial to be well-prepared for anything, as weather conditions can change rapidly and without warning. Make sure to pack accordingly, bringing gear for both warm and cold weather, as well as protection from rain and insects. This unpredictability makes the journey exciting but also challenging, so it’s essential to stay flexible and adaptable. Be ready to adjust your plans as needed, whether that means finding shelter from unexpected storms or enjoying a sudden burst of sunshine.

Ultimately, the ever-changing conditions are part of what makes this trail so special and rewarding. Be prepared for surprises, and you’ll enjoy the adventure even more.

There are no strict safety measures required. Just use your own judgement and consider what you might need along the way. Some people choose to bring satellite beacons when hiking for so long or when hiking solo as a safety measure. Additionally, its good to bring a first aid kit and, of course, clothing for all weather conditions. A small emergency shelter can be useful as well. Safety starts with you.