How difficult are the tours really?
Honest words about elevation gain, pathless mountains, and why hiking in Lofoten is completely different from Central Europe.
The Norwegian system and its limits
The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) uses a standard 4-color system (Green, Blue, Red, Black). However, for the extreme and rugged landscape of Lofoten, this system often falls short. A "red" tour here can mean strolling over secured stone steps (Reinebringen) – or climbing pathless over huge boulders near an abyss. To avoid misunderstandings and dangerous misjudgments, we use an adapted, more precise 6-level scale.
Our 6-Level Scale
Find the level that best suits you and your group. If in doubt, always start one level easier.
Nature Enjoyment & Stroll
Flat terrain, mostly near the coast or in valleys. No significant inclines. More of a relaxed stroll in nature than a sporty hike. Doable for everyone.
Real Hike
Visible paths, partly uneven. There are moderate inclines that will make you sweat. A normal basic physical condition is perfectly sufficient for this.
Sporty & Heavy on the Knees
It gets steep. The ground is wet, rocky, or muddy. Surefootedness is required. The descent puts strain on the knees. Good physical condition is absolutely necessary.
From here on it gets alpine
Very steep, partly pathless boulder terrain (scree). Hiking experience in the mountains, an absolute head for heights, and surefootedness are basic prerequisites.
Not for the faint of heart
Highly exposed. There is an absolute risk of falling. Hands must be used continuously for securing (scrambling). We do not offer these tours directly, but you are welcome to send us a request.
Individual
The route, pace, and difficulty are tailor-made for your group. From flat valley hikes to demanding summit ascents in winter.
The 2-Badge System for Hard Tours
A 20-kilometer walk on the beach is exhausting (Condition), but extremely easy to walk (Technique). From our Moderate (Yellow) level onwards, we strictly separate endurance and terrain conditions. For these tours, you will see two additional markers:
Why do we do this? Someone who easily runs a marathon on asphalt (Condition: High) can panic on a mountain when the path is only 30 centimeters wide and drops off steeply (Technique: High). Thanks to the two badges, you know exactly whether the tour will challenge you physically or technically.
Alps vs. Lofoten: A Straight-Talking Comparison
Many guests read "800 meters elevation gain" and think of their last vacation in Austria or South Tyrol. However, different rules apply in Lofoten. Here are four things you need to know before planning a demanding tour:
1. The Elevation Illusion
In the Alps, you often start at 1,200 meters elevation at a cable car station and hike to 2,000 meters. In Lofoten, you start at 0 meters (sea level). 800 meters of elevation gain in Lofoten means 800 meters straight up – without a head start, without a gondola.
2. Trails Instead of Hiking Highways
Gravel paths or gently laid-out switchbacks hardly exist here. The trails (mostly trampled by sheep) often lead straight up the mountain at a steep angle. You walk over loose scree, smooth rock, or knee-deep mud.
3. The Sponge Under Your Feet
The Norwegian word "Myr" means bog. Many tours start through these swampy areas. Waterproof hiking boots covering the ankles are not a friendly recommendation in Lofoten, but an absolute must if you want to keep dry feet.
4. The Weather as the Final Boss
Sun at the parking lot doesn't mean it won't snow at the summit. The coastal weather in the Arctic changes extremely fast. Without the "onion principle" (multiple clothing layers plus a windbreaker), you won't get far here.