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Molden Hike

By François · updated in May 202605/2026My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Moderate Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
3h30 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
8.5km
out and back
Elevation gain
610m
Type of route
Out and back
Maximum altitude
1,116 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
Yes
Popularity
High
County
Vestland
Start point
61.33327, 7.27164
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

Molden (1,116 m) is one of the most iconic hikes in Norway's fjord region. Thanks to its privileged location, this route offers exceptional 360° views of the Lustrafjord, an emerald-colored arm of the majestic Sognefjord—Norway's longest fjord. Considered a local classic, Molden promises spectacular visual rewards for a reasonably strenuous effort.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Molden Hike

Difficulties of the hike

Climbing up Molden presents no particular technical difficulties. The well-maintained trail alternates between forest and alpine pastures, with occasional markings but clear directional signs at each intersection.
Starting at a high altitude from the Krossen parking lot significantly reduces the effort required; the trail is only 4 km long with 600 m of elevation gain. The gradual ascent is punctuated by increasingly expansive views, making this hike popular among families and occasional hikers.

What you'll love

  • Svarthiller's intermediate viewpoint: This former alpine farm is the perfect place to stop halfway up for a sneak peek at the views from the summit.
  • A spectacular 360° panorama: Take in the emerald green waters of the Lustrafjord, the distant Jostedal glacier, and the peaks plunging into the fjord.

Practical information

Access

There is a free parking lot in Krossen, accessible via an easy 3-kilometer gravel road from Route 55. The lot is spacious, but it often fills up in the summer when the weather is nice, so be sure to arrive early.

Best time to go

From June to September, on average. See the Norway FAQ for more details.

Please note

The summit forms a vast plateau. Take the time to explore it and enjoy the varied views of the fjords and surrounding mountains.

Forest trail
Forest trail
Lustrafjord
Lustrafjord
Old alpine farm Svarthiller
Old alpine farm Svarthiller
Old alpine farm Svarthiller and Lustrafjord
Old alpine farm Svarthiller and Lustrafjord
Lustrafjord, au nord
Lustrafjord, north
Summit shelter
Summit shelter
Mix of milky water from the Jostedal glacier and the Lustrafjord
Mix of milky water from the Jostedal glacier and the Lustrafjord
Small lake below the summit of Molden
Small lake below the summit of Molden
Gaupne village and Jostedalsbreen on the left
Gaupne village and Jostedalsbreen on the left
Gaupne village and Jostedalsbreen
Gaupne village and Jostedalsbreen
Lustrafjord
Lustrafjord
Lustrafjord to the west
Lustrafjord to the west
Lustrafjord, east (drone shot)
Lustrafjord, east (drone shot)
Lustrafjord, north (drone shot)
Lustrafjord, north (drone shot)

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/norway/molden/