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Ulriken Hike

By François · updated in May 202605/2026My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
2h45 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
5.7km
Elevation gain
510m
Type of route
Loop
Maximum altitude
643 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
No
Popularity
Moderate
County
Vestland
Start point
60.37256, 5.36978
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

At an elevation of 643 meters, Ulriken is the tallest of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen, in Norway. This true local landmark offers hikers breathtaking views of the city, fjords, and surrounding islands. There are several trails that lead to the summit; the most famous is the Sherpa Steps, an impressive stone staircase with over 1,300 steps.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Ulriken Hike

Description and difficulties of the hike

The trailhead is in the Montana residential neighborhood, which is accessible by bus from the city center. The route starts on a wide gravel path and then continues up the Sherpa Steps, climbing 500 meters in elevation over just two kilometers. It's a short but steep climb. Once you reach the imposing radio antenna at around 600 meters, the route continues along a traditional hiking trail winding through the wild landscape typical of the Norwegian mountains.

For the return trip, you have several options. You can descend via the same Sherpa stairs or opt for a deeper immersion in nature by following the "Korketrekkeren" trail, which winds through a magnificent plateau dotted with small mountain lakes. Though the route is unmarked, the trail is signposted; simply follow "Ulriken" on the way there and "Montana" on the way back.

What you'll love

  • Spectacular panoramic views: Take in the 360° panorama from the summit overlooking the city of Bergen, the fjords, and the islands on one side, and the untamed wilderness on the other.
  • Immersion in nature: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in just a few minutes' walk to find yourself in the heart of a typical Norwegian landscape.
  • A flexible hike: Adapt the difficulty to your preferences! The cable car (for ascending or descending) and the multitude of trails connecting Montana to the Ulriken summit allow you to personalize your hiking experience.

Practical information

Ulriken Cable Car

A convenient option for ascending or descending if you wish to conserve energy or enjoy the scenery without exertion.

Access and parking

Parking near the trailhead in Montana is very limited. Public transportation is a safer and more environmentally friendly option.

Best time to go

From May to October, on average. See the Norway FAQ for more details.

East of Bergen
East of Bergen
East of Bergen
East of Bergen
View of Bergen from the radio antenna
View of Bergen from the radio antenna
Sheep on the summit of Ulriken
Sheep on the summit of Ulriken
Summit of Ulriken
Summit of Ulriken
Antenna, and arrival of the cable car
Antenna, and arrival of the cable car
Contrast between the urbanization of Bergen on one side and the wilderness on the other
Contrast between the urbanization of Bergen on one side and the wilderness on the other
Panorama of Bergen from Ulriken
Panorama of Bergen from Ulriken
Bergen city center
Bergen city center
Numerous small mountain lakes
Numerous small mountain lakes
Ulriken
Ulriken
Descent towards Montana
Descent towards Montana

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