The road to the top - a marathon and then some
For many people, Sandviken Camping is the natural base for a visit to Gaustatoppen. The distance from us to the car park at Stavsro is 38 km, a drive of about 40 minutes through beautiful mountain scenery. Did you know that Sandviken is exactly one marathon (42.2 km) away from the summit itself? It's here on our plain that the running leg starts for the athletes in the world-renowned Norseman Xtreme Triathlon.
The actual hike from Stavsro to Gaustatoppen Turisthytte is 4.3 kilometres long. We recommend calculating around 2 hours each way, including breaks to enjoy the increasingly spectacular views. On days with good weather, the summit is the perfect place to lie down in the heather, take a deep breath and just let the sun warm you as you gaze out over the kingdom.
The Gaustabanen - a journey into the heart of the mountain
If you want a more accessible route, or want to save your knees on the way down, the Gaustabans a unique experience. This track runs inside the mountain itself and takes you to the top in just 15 minutes! It was originally built as a secret military facility in co-operation with NATO during the Cold War, but today it's a spectacular attraction that makes the mountain accessible to everyone - all year round.
Many people choose to walk the 4.3 kilometres up and take the cable car down. Keep in mind that it's about a 4 km walk from the bottom station of the Gaustabanen back to the car park at Stavsro. During the high season, we recommend using shuttle buses from, for example, Bygget or Gaustablikk to avoid parking challenges.
Important to know before your trip
- Clothing: Even on a warm summer's day, it can be cold and windy at 1883 metres. Always keep a hat, scarf, mittens and extra clothes in your backpack, and wear sturdy hiking boots.
- Catering and facilities: There are simple toilet facilities at the car park. At the top you'll find a café with simple catering (waffles!), but we always recommend bringing a snack and plenty of drinks in your backpack.
- Planning: Always check weather and road conditions via live webcam from Gaustabanen before you set off on your trip.
- Transport: There is no regular bus service from Sandviken to the summit, but please contact us at reception if this is something you would like help organising.
