Snowshoe Thompson - the hero from Tinn
Just 7 kilometres from Sandviken, in the direction of Tessungdalen, lies Lure - an area steeped in history. At Lurheim Grendehus you'll find the monument to Jon Torsteinson Rue, better known as Snowshoe Thompson. He is perhaps Tinn's most famous emigrant; the man who became a legend in the USA by carrying mail across the harsh Sierra Nevada mountains on skis - an art he learnt here on the slopes at Lure.
A path leads you from the car park straight into history. Here you can visit the foundations of his birthplace and read about his incredible achievements on information signs (Norwegian and English). Every year on Palm Sunday, his memory is honoured with Snowshoe Thompson memory lanes, a 22-kilometre ski race from Småroi to Lurestaulen that attracts ski enthusiasts from far and wide.
Bridges, waterfalls and old industry
Lure is more than just emigration history. The area is home to important technical heritage sites that show how people lived and worked in the past:
- The historic bridge: Built in 1820 and lovingly restored in 2019. It stands as a symbol of ancient engineering.
- The waterfall factory from 1780: Here you'll get an insight into how water power was utilised to make textiles (washing and stretching wool) and how the world-famous Tinn knives were forged in the donkey heat.
- Lurefossen: The waterfall itself is a spectacular sight, especially after rain, and the trails in the area are an experience in themselves for nature-loving hikers.
How to get here
You can easily drive to Lurheim Grendehus where there is plenty of parking. For those looking for a more active trip, it's great to cycle from Sandviken, past Austbygde church and follow the road on the left side of the river up the valley.
Tips: Combine your trip with a visit to Shoulder wool or Tinn Craft Centre for a complete cultural day in Tinn Austbygd!
