---
title: "St. Olav Way – a guide to the Norwegian Camino (thru-hiking 101)"
description: "A detailed guide to St. Olav Way (Gudbrandsdalsleden) – the 643 km Norwegian pilgrimage route from Oslo to Trondheim, the Nordic counterpart of the Camino de Santiago."
canonical_url: "https://gramino.com/blog/st-olav-way-guide"
last_updated: "2026-04-23"
---

# St. Olav Way – a guide to the Norwegian Camino (thru-hiking 101)

Authors: Barbora Vrátná

Date: 2026-04-23

A detailed guide to St. Olav Way (Gudbrandsdalsleden) – the 643 km Norwegian pilgrimage route from Oslo to Trondheim, the Nordic counterpart of the Camino de Santiago.

Drawn to pilgrimage trails, but Camino de Santiago feels too touristy, too hot and too well-trodden? Head to Norway instead, where you can walk in the footsteps of pilgrims to Trondheim, to the grave of King Olav Haraldsson, patron saint of Norway. 🇳🇴

On St. Olav's Ways, history meets untamed Nordic wilderness. Gudbrandsdalsleden, the main branch of these routes, takes you through the heart of Norway, from modern Oslo to the gates of the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim. 🕍 Across 643 kilometers you'll pass through everything from fertile valleys and deep forests to the raw beauty of the Dovrefjell mountains, where time seems to have stopped somewhere between prehistoric muskoxen and endless white nights.

Gudbrandsdalsleden is considered the Nordic answer to the famous Camino, and every year it draws adventurers looking for a mix of history, spiritual calm and rugged Norwegian nature. 🌲 Finding a complete, practical guide to walking to the relics of St. Olav can be a real challenge. This article is aimed mainly at people who are considering tackling Gudbrandsdalsleden, and it should serve as a springboard for further planning. Alongside the basic trail facts, you'll also find practical insights into how a Norwegian pilgrimage actually works and what you might run into along the way – from Dovrefjell's unpredictable weather, through a detailed look at the terrain, to how to earn the well-deserved Olavsbrev certificate at the finish.

## **Trail name**

**St. Olav's Ways** is the international name for a network of pilgrimage routes, the best known of which runs from Oslo to Trondheim and carries the Norwegian name **Gudbrandsdalsleden** (a compound of the valley name *Gudbrandsdalen* and the Norwegian word *leden*, meaning trail or path). The name refers to the king and patron saint of Norway, Olav Haraldsson, to whose grave in Nidaros Cathedral pilgrims have been walking since the 11th century. Don't let the name fool you – this “Camino of the north” isn't just for the faithful, but for anyone looking to find some peace in the Norwegian wilderness.

## **Location**

The main branch of St. Olav's Way connects Norway's two most historically significant cities – it starts in **Oslo** (at the ruins of St. Hallvard's Cathedral) and, after more than 640 kilometers, ends at Nidaros Cathedral in **Trondheim**.

Right at the start in Oslo, you have a choice between two variants: the **eastern route** runs through the Romerike region and the town of Hamar along the eastern shore of Lake Mjøsa, while the **western route** heads through Ringerike and Hadeland along the lake's western side. Both routes measure roughly 230 kilometers, with the western one being slightly more demanding due to greater elevation gain. The original eastern route takes you past important historical sites, while the west offers a bit more natural scenery.

You can combine both variants by taking the historic **paddle steamer** ***Skibladner***, which carries you across Lake Mjøsa from the town of Gjøvik to Hamar. The last stop on both routes is the town of **Lillehammer**, from where the trail continues as a single line further north through the **Gudbrandsdalen** valley, across the mountain tundra of **Dovrefjell** and into the fertile region of **Trøndelag**.

*The stave church in Ringebu*

*The Dovrefjell mountains*

*St. Olav's Ways waymarking*

## **Total length**

The main Gudbrandsdalsleden route measures approximately **643 kilometers**. Besides this classic variant, there are other alternatives ranging from 150 to 580 kilometers in length (more in the Alternatives section).

## **Total elevation gain**

Although the highest point on the whole trail is lower than Scotland's Ben Nevis, you'll still **climb a total of roughly** **12,000 m** over the course of the walk. That's down to typical Norwegian terrain, which resembles the teeth of a saw – expect constant climbs out of deep valleys onto the surrounding ridges, followed by descents back down to lake or river level.

The toughest stretches await you in the wild Dovrefjell mountains, where the trail climbs above the treeline for several days into the inhospitable but breathtaking Norwegian tundra.

## **Highest and lowest point**

You'll begin and end your walk symbolically at sea level (**0 m above sea level**), by the Oslofjord and Trondheimsfjord. The highest point on the whole route, on the other hand, is out in the wilderness of the Dovrefjell plateau, at an elevation of **1,314 m above sea level**. From there you'll get the most stunning views of the surrounding tundra and mountain peaks.

## **Duration**

Set aside roughly a month for the complete pilgrimage from Oslo to Trondheim. Most pilgrims cover the route in **30 to 32 days** at an average pace of 20–22 kilometers a day. If you don't have a month to spare, a popular alternative is walking just the final stretch from Oppdal, which measures roughly 100 km and takes about a week. Covering the final 100 kilometers of the route also entitles you to the St. Olav certificate (officially known as *Olavsbrev*).

*A view over the Gudbrandsdalen valley*

*Lake Tyrifjorden*

## **Direction and season**

The standard and historically correct direction is to walk **from south to north**, meaning from Oslo to Trondheim. This isn't just symbolic, with your goal being St. Olav's grave – it's also practical, since the landscape gradually shifts from settled areas through deep forests to mountain peaks, giving the whole experience a great sense of buildup. Walking “upstream” is possible, but you'll miss out on the community experience of meeting fellow pilgrims and on the symbolic arrival at the monumental Nidaros Cathedral.

The main pilgrimage season is fairly short, running **from June to August**. Outside this window, at least part of the route is likely to be under snow. In **June**, the sun in Norway barely sets, letting you experience endlessly long days. Do bear in mind, though, that you can still run into patches of snow at the highest points of Dovrefjell. **July** is the warmest month with the most stable weather, but also the busiest one on the trail. Even so, you'll still meet far fewer people than on other, more crowded treks. In **August**, you can look forward to ripening blueberries and the first hints of the Nordic autumn, though nights are already noticeably colder. Walking in **September** is best left to more experienced hikers; the autumn colors are breathtaking, but the days grow shorter, temperatures drop toward zero, and many pilgrim hostels close for the season.

*The self-service pilgrim shelter Ryphusan*

*A path across a waterlogged bog*

## **Start and end points**

The official starting point of the route is the **ruins of St. Hallvard's Cathedral** in the old part of Oslo (Gamlebyen), reachable from the main Gardermoen airport by a direct train in under 20 minutes. Low-cost airline flights often land at Sandefjord airport instead, which is 120 km from Oslo; a bus or train will get you into the city center easily enough, though budget for a journey of nearly two hours.

You'll finish your walk at the monumental **Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim**, where you can view the altar holding St. Olav's relics. To get back from Trondheim, most people use either the local Værnes airport or the legendary Dovrebanen railway line, which will carry you back to Oslo in roughly **seven hours**, with the route you just walked visible from the train window as you go. Most pilgrims book a **multi-city** flight – flying into Oslo and out of Trondheim. That saves you the 7-hour train ride back to Oslo, though the ride over the mountains has its own charm.

If you're coming from elsewhere in Europe, flying is by far the simplest and fastest option. A direct flight to Oslo from a major Central European hub takes roughly **2 hours**. If you fly with a connection (for example via Frankfurt or Warsaw), budget for **4 to 6 hours**.

Other ways of getting there take considerably more time. Road-trip fans can cover **1,400–1,600 km** by car (depending on the route chosen, via Germany, Denmark and Sweden). Pure driving time is around **18–20 hours**, but with stops and a ferry crossing it works out closer to **2 days** of travel. Going by train or bus is really only for real enthusiasts, or for those who'd rather not fly. From Central Europe, a route via Berlin and Copenhagen will take you roughly **24–30 hours**.

## **Official source of information**

Unlike many other trails, St. Olav's Way has a clearly defined governing body, overseen by the [**National Pilgrim Center (Nasjonalt pilegrimssenter)**](https://www.pilegrimsleden.no/en/nasjonalt-pilegrimssenter) based in Trondheim. It coordinates a [**network of regional pilgrim centers**](https://www.pilegrimsleden.no/en/regionale-pilegrimssenter/regionale-pilegrimssentre) spread out along the route, which maintain the waymarking and provide support to pilgrims out on the trail. You can reach out to them directly with specific questions – they have the best overview of the current situation in their particular region.

For all your practical planning, itineraries and accommodation bookings, the key portal is [**pilegrimsleden.no**](https://www.pilegrimsleden.no/en/). It's the official digital hub, where you'll find an interactive map with GPS routes, a list of certified accommodation (from historic farms to modern hostels) and a simple trip planner. The portal also has information on where to get a **pilgrim passport**, in which you collect stamps along the way (see the Practical tips section), and what the conditions are for earning the **St. Olav certificate (*****Olavsbrev*****).**

*The Dale-Gudbrand pilgrim center*

*You'll receive the St. Olav certificate in Trondheim*

*One of the many churches along the route*

## **Planning and preparation**

### **Permits**

Setting off on the Gudbrandsdalsleden pilgrimage route is very simple – you don't need any permit or authorization to walk it. If you're planning to use the pilgrim hostels along the way, though, it's a good idea to book your bed in advance.

### **Visas**

As a citizen of an EU or Schengen country, you won't need a visa or residence permit to stay in Norway, and you don't even need to bring your passport – a national ID card is enough.

### **Insurance**

Since Gudbrandsdalsleden runs along marked trails and the route's highest point (1,314 m above sea level) lies well below the thresholds for high-altitude mountaineering, **standard travel insurance** will be enough. Just make sure it includes cover for a possible mountain rescue callout.

### **Navigation and maps**

St. Olav's Way is very well marked along its entire length with a distinctive symbol – **St. Olav's red cross** (a combination of a cross and St. John's “knot”) on a white background. Out on the trail you'll most often come across wooden posts, stone cairns or markings on trees. A unique feature are the stone milestones, which count down how many kilometers remain to the finish in Trondheim.

For digital navigation, the most important resource is the official portal [**pilegrimsleden.no**](https://www.pilegrimsleden.no/en/kart), where you'll find an interactive map and can download the current GPX files. [**Mapy.com**](https://mapy.com/s/duvunaseha) also does a great job (especially offline), with the entire Gudbrandsdalsleden route mapped out in detail and accurately.

If you prefer **paper guidebooks**, we recommend picking up the English-language guide [*Gudbrandsdalsleden, The St. Olav way, From Oslo to Trondheim*](https://viagaia.nl/en/webshop/hiking-guides/gudbrandsdalsleden). It has not only a description of each stage, accommodation options and detailed maps, but also practical trail information and cultural background. Paper maps can be bought at bookshops in Oslo or at regional pilgrim centers, though thanks to the dense and clear waymarking, most pilgrims today manage fine with just a phone and a backup power source.

*A Hyperlite Mountain Gear backpack and a stone milestone*

*Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim*

*Dense Norwegian forests*

## **Gear**

If you decide to rely solely on pilgrim and other lodgings during your walk, you can travel fairly light. Most hostels provide blankets and pillows, but it's standard to bring your own [**sleeping bag liner**](/c/sleep/sleeping-bag-liners) or a lightweight [sleeping bag](/c/sleep/sleeping-bags). Many farms and hostels let you order half-board or cook for yourself in a fully equipped kitchen, so you don't need to lug along a stove or large food supplies.

If you're planning to make use of Norway's right to roam (*Allemannsretten*) and sleep out in nature or at campsites, though, you'll need a full **long-distance trekking setup**. You can read about how to build an ultralight gear list [here](/blog/how-to-build-an-ultralight-gear-list). Take some inspiration from what we pack ourselves on treks – our gear list [under 4 kg](/blog/ultralight-gear-list-1-under-4-kg) or [5.5 kg](/blog/ultralight-gear-list-2-5-5-kg). Keep in mind that in Norway a [**good tent**](/c/sleep/tents) is essential – the Dovrefjell plateau can surprise you with strong wind and heavy rain, so your shelter needs to be stable and reliably waterproof.

As for footwear, we recommend trail running shoes. They're light and dry quickly, which you'll appreciate in Norway – the route often crosses waterlogged meadows, moss and bogs, where even the best hiking boots get soaked. We'd recommend pairing lightweight [trail runners](/c/footwear) with [waterproof socks](/c/clothing/waterproof-socks). It's important to have your shoes well tested, since more than 600 km of varied terrain awaits you.

Norwegian weather is unpredictable, so pack a waterproof jacket and pants (or a [rain skirt](/p/liteway-rain-skirt)) without fail. Keep your gear dry with a waterproof [backpack](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-unbound-55) fitted with a [liner](/p/gramino-ultralight-waterproof-backpack-liner) or a system of [dry bags](/c/gear/drybags-and-organisers).

Handle your clothing with layering. Even if it's 25°C in the valley, temperatures on Dovrefjell can still drop to zero in summer. Merino wool is practically mandatory in Norway – it keeps you warm even when damp, and won't stink even after a week of walking. Don't forget a lightweight down jacket for cooler evenings. Choose your [sleeping bag](/c/sleep/sleeping-bags) or [quilt](/c/sleep/quilts) accordingly – if you tend to run cold, you could still be shivering at night even in summer, so a light three-season sleeping bag/quilt is the safer bet.

With all the constant climbing and descending, [trekking poles](/c/gear/trekking-poles) will bring huge relief. In summer, don't underestimate the sun – days are extremely long and the sun is strong up in the mountains, so sunscreen and sunglasses are a must. Norway also has its own specific biting insects – besides mosquitoes, small midges can bother you, especially near lakes and in forests, so pack a good repellent and consider a [mosquito headnet](/p/sea-to-summit-nano-mosquito-headnet) as well. Luckily, mosquito attacks here aren't nearly as dramatic as in the more northerly parts of the country.

- [DexShell Running Lite Sock 2.0](/p/dexshell-running-lite-sock-2-0.md)
- [Patizon G 400](/p/patizon-g400.md)
- [Gramino Ultralight Waterproof Backpack Liner](/p/gramino-ultralight-waterproof-backpack-liner.md)
- [Sea To Summit Head Net](/p/sea-to-summit-head-net.md)
- [Montane Protium Hoodie](/p/montane-mens-protium-hoodie.md)
- [NEMO Tensor Trail](/p/nemo-tensor-trail.md)
- [Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40](/p/hyperlite-mountain-gear-unbound-40.md)
- [Montane Alpine 850 Lite Hoodie](/p/montane-mens-alpine-850-lite-hoodie.md)
- [Turbat Maya 2 LS Mns](/p/turbat-maya-2-ls-mns.md)
- [Topo Athletic Terraventure 5 Women's](/p/topo-athletic-terraventure-5-womens.md)
- [Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL1](/p/big-agnes-tiger-wall-ul1.md)

## **Trail logistics**

### **Camping and accommodation**

Accommodation along Gudbrandsdalsleden covers a mix of options for different budgets and comfort needs. Broadly speaking, you can choose between the following:

- **Pilgrim hostels (Herberge):** A network of certified places ranging from historic farms to modern hostels. They have a unique atmosphere and often include a shared kitchen where you can meet other pilgrims.
- **Wild camping (Allemannsretten):** Thanks to Norway's right to roam, you can pitch a tent almost anywhere, as long as you're at least 150 meters from the nearest dwelling. In waterlogged, uneven terrain, though, finding the perfect spot can sometimes be a challenge.
- **Wooden shelters (Gapahuk):** Along the way (often near viewpoints or in forests) you'll come across traditional Norwegian shelters with three walls and an open front. They're free, often have a fire pit nearby, and make a great refuge for a break from the rain, or even for a night out if you want to enjoy sleeping outdoors without pitching a tent.
- **Classic campsites:** The ideal choice when you need a hot shower, a washing machine, or want to shelter in a small wooden cabin (hytte) if the Norwegian weather is being particularly nasty outside.

**Practical tip:** In the main season (July) and in the more remote parts of the Dovrefjell mountains, it's advisable to book hostel accommodation at least a day ahead. Capacity is limited, and the next bed could be many kilometers away. The official website has a [complete list](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ci87fRmWXL_58lD17jyJ6J1DwwW_RfO97V2PAKR0_e0/edit?tab=t.0) of accommodation, campsites and shelters.

*A wooden gapahuk shelter*

*The luxurious fit-out of one of the gapahuks*

*You can pitch a tent almost anywhere out in nature*

### **Resupply**

Resupplying isn't a major problem along Gudbrandsdalsleden, since the trail passes through a string of villages and small towns with supermarkets, where you can shop almost every day. The one exception is the crossing of the Dovrefjell mountains, where several days of wilderness await you with no chance to buy anything, so you'll need to stock up for 4 to 5 days in the town of Dovre (or in neighboring Dombås). Norwegian shops might surprise you with unfamiliar packaging and product names, but you'll also be pleased by the great availability of quality dehydrated meals, especially from the brand [Real Turmat](/b/real-turmat), which you'll find in every outdoor shop and in larger supermarkets. Note that most shops in Norway are closed on Sundays, so plan your end-of-week shopping for Saturday instead.

If you're staying at pilgrim hostels, most of them have a fully equipped kitchen where you can cook from your own supplies, which helps keep your budget under control. Many farms also let you buy breakfast, dinner, or have a packed lunch prepared for the trail. Gas canisters and basic outdoor gear can be found in Oslo or at sporting goods stores in larger towns like Hamar, Lillehammer or Oppdal.

- [Moonvalley Chocolate Dipped Protein Bar](/p/moonvalley-protein-bar-chocolate-dipped.md)
- [Adventure Menu Creamy Risotto with Asparagus and Broccoli](/p/adventure-menu-creamy-risotto-with-asparagus-and-broccoli.md)
- [REAL Turmat Beef Stew (new recipe)](/p/real-turmat-beef-stew.md)
- [Freeze-Dried String Cheese – Greek Herbs 50 g](/p/freeze-dried-smoked-cheese-strings-greek-herbs-50-g.md)
- [REAL Turmat Reindeer Stew](/p/real-turmat-reindeer-stew.md)
- [REAL Turmat Cod in Curry Sauce](/p/real-turmat-cod-in-curry-sauce.md)
- [Summit To Eat Vegetable Tikka Masala with Rice](/p/summit-to-eat-vegetable-tikka-masala-with-rice.md)
- [REAL Turmat Tomato Soup](/p/real-turmat-tomato-soup.md)
- [Summit To Eat Chicken Tikka with Rice](/p/summit-to-eat-chicken-tikka-with-rice.md)
- [Adventure Menu KIDS Creamy Paprika Chicken with Pasta](/p/adventure-menu-kids-creamy-paprika-chicken-with-pasta.md)
- [REAL Turmat Taco Bowl](/p/real-turmat-taco-bowl.md)

### **Water**

Water is essentially everywhere in Norway, and most flowing sources in the mountains are safe to drink. Even so, we'd recommend bringing a water filter. The route passes through pastures with sheep and cattle, so watch out for contaminated water. Since the trail very often runs through settled areas, you can top up in towns and villages – don't be shy about knocking on a local's door, people are usually happy to help. A small tip – along the way you'll pass a large number of churches with graveyards, which also have drinking water on tap.

## **Dangers and difficulty**

### **Weather**

The ideal time to cross Gudbrandsdalsleden is from mid-June to early September. Earlier than that, deep patches of melting snow and impassable, waterlogged sections in the Dovrefjell mountains will likely stop you. After mid-September, most pilgrim hostels close again and the days shorten rapidly. In the lowlands, full of forests and fields, the weather tends to be very pleasant, similar to a mild European summer, with temperatures between 15–25°C.

Things change once you climb above the treeline in the Dovrefjell mountains. Even in July, you can be caught out by sharp gusts of wind, thick fog or heavy rain that drops the temperature to 5°C. Snow showers aren't unusual at the highest elevations, even in the middle of summer. If the old saying that “there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing” holds true anywhere, it's in Norway. Plan on the fact that you'll probably get wet on the trail – what matters is keeping your gear dry inside your pack and having a layer that won't let the wind through.

A specific feature here is the white nights. In June and July, the sun sets for only a few hours and it barely gets dark at all. You probably won't need a headlamp, but if you're a light sleeper, we'd recommend packing an eye mask.

*Rugged tundra in the Dovrefjell mountains*

*Long, drawn-out climbs*

*You can collect stamps in churches along the way*

### **Terrain**

St. Olav's Way is a technically easy trek, whose main challenge isn't difficult terrain but the sheer length of the route and the fatigue that comes with it. The trail starts in Oslo, and in its first half runs mostly along forest paths, gravel roads and the occasional stretch of tarmac between farms in the valley. Things change in the Dovrefjell mountains, where the trail turns into a typical rocky, mountain footpath with loose stones, though it stays safely passable throughout, with no exposed sections, chains or ladders to tackle.

A distinctive feature of Norwegian terrain is the ever-present damp ground and bogs. Wooden boardwalks often lead across them, but after rain, expect muddy stretches and waterlogged meadows. Although you're not moving through extreme altitudes, the total elevation gain of around 12,000 meters means long, drawn-out climbs and steep descents that will really test your knees and ankles above all. Most of the time you'll be walking through wilderness or cultivated landscape on well-marked footpaths, where the biggest obstacles tend to be slippery roots and wet rocks.

### **Injuries and health issues**

The most common problem is blisters and chafing. Because Norway is very damp, the skin on your feet softens faster inside wet shoes and becomes more prone to damage. Prevention is therefore key – applying petroleum jelly to your feet, swapping to dry socks often, and dealing with the slightest hot spot right away. The total elevation gain of 12,000 meters also takes a toll on your knees and tendons (especially the Achilles). Don't underestimate the value of trekking poles, which significantly ease the load on your joints during steep descents, and don't hesitate to schedule a rest day if you're in pain. Drinking water near cattle pastures could also cause digestive problems.

Your first aid kit shouldn't be without a good supply of blister plasters, disinfectant, painkillers and magnesium for cramps. In case of serious problems, Norwegian healthcare is top-notch, and in an emergency you can call 113.

**Tip:** Download the Hjelp 113 app, which sends your location straight to the emergency services.

- [Fizan Compact MS](/p/fizan-compact-ms.md)
- [HydroBlu Versa Flow Water Filter Package](/p/hydroblu-versa-flow-water-filter-package.md)
- [LifeStraw Peak Series Solo](/p/lifestraw-peak-series-solo.md)
- [SteriPen Ultralight UV](/p/steripen-ultralight-uv.md)
- [Fizan Compact](/p/fizan-compact.md)
- [Platypus Softbottle 1.0 L Platy Logo Closure Cap](/p/platypus-softbottle-1-l-platy-logo-closure-cap.md)
- [Fizan Compact 4](/p/fizan-compact-4.md)
- [Sea To Summit Lightweight Dry Bag First Aid](/p/sea-to-summit-lightweight-dry-bag-first-aid.md)
- [Katadyn Micropur Forte MF 1T](/p/katadyn-micropur-forte-mf-1-t.md)

### **Animals**

The biggest draw of the Dovrefjell mountains is the wild muskoxen. They may look like shaggy boulders, but they can be very fast and aggressive, so keep a safe distance from them. In the forested sections you might come across moose, or herds of reindeer, while free-grazing sheep and cows will keep you company along the entire route. Predators are extremely shy in Norway, so the odds of spotting a bear or a wolf are close to zero. If you hear a sound that seems to come from something between a dog and a duck, it's probably a fox.

At lower elevations (especially in the forests between Oslo and Lillehammer) you'll find ticks, so it's worth checking yourself regularly. Norway also has its share of biting insects – besides mosquitoes, small midges can be a nuisance, and the local strong repellents work best against them. It's not a bad idea to pack a [mosquito headnet](/p/sea-to-summit-nano-mosquito-headnet) as well.

*Free-grazing cattle*

*Sheep are everywhere*

### **Plants**

Norwegian vegetation changes markedly with elevation, from dense birch and pine forests in the valleys to the inhospitable but beautiful tundra of the Dovrefjell mountains, full of moss and lichen. In summer, the biggest draw for pilgrims are carpets of blueberries, lingonberries, and above all the rare cloudberries, which grow in the bogs and are rightly considered “gold of the north” thanks to their color and price. With a bit of luck, you might also spot hardy arctic flora on the mountain plateaus, whose bright colors stand out sharply against the otherwise gray, rocky terrain.

There are no dangerously toxic or aggressively irritating plants along the route to any degree that poses a real risk to hikers. Common sense is the best guide – don't eat unfamiliar berries or mushrooms, and respect fencing and young growth on pastures. The best way to protect the vegetation is to stay on the trail and avoid creating new shortcuts.

## **Alternatives**

When planning Gudbrandsdalsleden, the most important decision is choosing between the eastern and western route around Lake Mjøsa. Both variants start in Oslo and meet again in Lillehammer, but each has its own character:

- **Western route (Vesterleden):** Runs through historic Hadeland and past the “Sister Churches” in Granavollen. It's somewhat hillier, offers beautiful views of the lake, and passes through deeper forests as well as open cultural landscape dotted with many historical sites.
- **Eastern route (Østerleden):** Somewhat longer, running via Eidsvoll (where Norway's constitution was signed) toward Hamar, home to the iconic cathedral ruins. This route is generally flatter and passes through fertile farmland.

Besides these two main branches, there's also a cycling variant that follows the walking route but uses paved roads and old royal highways instead of narrow footpaths on the more demanding mountain stretches (such as Dovrefjell). If you want to mix things up, you can also take the historic paddle steamer Skibladner between Hamar and Lillehammer, a stylish alternative recognized among pilgrims for taking a break from walking for a while.

Although Gudbrandsdalsleden is the most famous and most frequently walked route, the network of St. Olav's pilgrimage paths is far more extensive. [All the routes](https://www.pilegrimsleden.no/en/pilegrimsledene) (nine in total) converge at a single point – Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim. If you're drawn to something a little different, here are the most interesting alternatives:

- **St. Olavsleden (the Swedish route):** This route starts in Selånger, Sweden, on the shore of the Gulf of Bothnia, and crosses Scandinavia from east to west. It's the second most popular route (roughly 580 km), offering great infrastructure and stunning mountain crossings on the Swedish-Norwegian border.
- **Østerdalsleden:** If you're after real solitude and wilderness, this is the route for you. It starts in Rena, measures roughly 375 km, and runs through deep forests and unsettled countryside. It's considered the toughest, since it has the fewest hostels and shops, making a tent and large food supplies a necessity.
- **Valldalsleden:** A short but intense route (roughly 150 km) starting by the fjords in Valldal. It's a route for those who want to experience dramatic Norwegian scenery, steep climbs and deep valleys over a relatively short stretch.
- **Borgleden and Tunsbergleden:** These routes run from the south (from the Swedish border or from Larvik) and end in Oslo, where they join the main Gudbrandsdalsleden. They're ideal if you want to extend your walk with a stretch along the coast and through historic Viking areas.

*The Norwegian landscape*

*The end of the journey at the cathedral in Trondheim*

*The Dovrefjell mountains*

## **Practical tips to finish**

**Pilgrim passport and certificate (Olavsbrev):** You can collect stamps for your [pilgrim passport](https://www.pilegrimsleden.no/en/pilegrimspass-og-olavsbrevet) along the way in churches, hostels or on farms, and it often opens the door to cheaper accommodation reserved exclusively for pilgrims. You can pick one up already in Oslo at the pilgrim center, or order one online in advance. If you present your passport in Trondheim confirming you've walked at least the final 100 km (200 km by bike), you'll receive an official certificate of completion at the pilgrim center, the so-called Olavsbrev.

**Budget:** Norway is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, though your daily costs can vary widely depending on where you choose to sleep and eat. You'll save the most through legal wild camping and cooking for yourself, either on a stove or in hostel kitchens. The biggest drain on your budget tends to be alcohol, restaurant meals, and last-minute purchases at gas stations.

**Payment:** Although in Norwegian towns you'll pay almost exclusively by card, on the pilgrimage route you'll run into the odd smaller farm or self-service hostel that simply doesn't have a card terminal. Locals use the app Vipps, which you won't be able to install as a foreigner without a Norwegian bank account, so for these cases we'd strongly recommend carrying some cash in Norwegian kroner (NOK).

**Mobile signal and data:** Mobile coverage in Norway is surprisingly good even in remote mountain areas, though you should still expect the occasional dead zone in deep valleys or in the Dovrefjell mountains. The good news is that Norway is part of the European Economic Area (EEA), so European roaming rules apply, meaning you'll use data and minutes under the same conditions as at home. Even with the great coverage, though, download offline maps in advance just in case (e.g. Mapy.com).

**Language:** The official language is of course Norwegian, but Norwegians have one of the best levels of English in the world, spoken by practically everyone from kids to grandmothers on the farms. A few basic Norwegian words like Hei (Hi) or Takk (Thanks) will still open doors – and hearts – a little wider, though.

**Charging electronics:** Most hostels have standard European sockets, but for days out in the wilderness or camping in a tent, a powerful [power bank](/c/gear/powerbanks) definitely comes in handy. Norwegian public libraries, found in every larger town, are a great place to recharge both your batteries and your phone.

**Facebook groups:** On Facebook you'll find a great group, [Pilegrimsleden – Hiking along Gudbrandsdalsleden](https://www.facebook.com/groups/727747605724936/), in which regional pilgrim centers are also actively involved. Thanks to that, you'll find current information on trail conditions, weather or accommodation. The group naturally also works as a space for connecting with other pilgrims, so don't be afraid to ask any question that comes to mind.

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