The area known as Norway's Grand Canyon, is wild and breathtaking, rich in plant and animal life, cultural treasures, history and geological features.
You can hike through the valley and stay overnight in the mountain lodges along the way, or come by bus or private car for shorter trips. Each section is also suitable as a single day tour.
Finse - Geiteryggshytta - 5 hours - from July -18 km
Cross the railway at the station, continue along the western side of Jomfrunut and over the Finseåni river bridge. A short detour to St. Pål (named by Lord Garvagh) is a must. Spectacular views over Gausta, Hardangerjøkulen and parts of Jotunheimen. The route continues towards Bakkaheleren. On the way you pass an old animals hunting pit. Continue along the south bank of the river to Geiterygghytta - Mountain lodge.
Geiterygghytta - Stemmerdalen - 3 hours -10,2 km
Follow the path up from the construction road north of the lodge and ascend the west side of Sundellerskarvet. Here the path forks off to Kongshelleren and Iungsdalen. The path to Steinbergdalshytta continues northwards and cross Rausdalen. Another climb west of Bolhovd to Breibakka. Magnificent view over Stemmerdalen.
Stemmerdalen - Østerbø - 4 hours -10 km
Rejoin the path up the slope north of the lodge and continue the ascent. Fine view over Stemmerdalen. The path joins an old route by Grøna-dam. Continue over the Grøna river bridge, up past Grønestølen and down to Østerbø Fjellstove and Aurlandsdalen Turisthytte DNT.
Østerbø - Vassbygdi - 6 hours -20 km
This section of the valley is famous. Past the old cemetery and over the Langdøla bridge; continue past Viki to the once notorious Nesbøgalden (this was a system of ramshackle vertical and horizontal ladders fastened to cracks in the rock). Now a wide pathway has been blased into the cliff face along the Nesbø-vatnet. The path continues past picturesque Nesbø to a fork at Tirtesva. The orginal route is now restored, and it provides much better views than the path along the river. The steep descent from Bjønnstigvarden is assisted by handrails and steps. The walk continues past Svartatjødn. We recommend a visit to the "Vetlahelvete" cave to the west of the path. Descend once again to the river, and walk to the bridge over the Veiverdalselvi river. Ascend to Sinjarheim farm (now fully restored having been closed since 1921). On the way you pass the tiny Almen farm situated beneath a towering rock overhang. Continue along the river to Belle in Vassbygdi.
