Flåm hiking: the Aurlandsdalen valley
The best-known hike near Flåm leads through the Aurlandsdalen valley, from Østerbø to Vassbygdi. The route is just under 19 km long and takes 6 to 8 hours. It descends from about 820 m to about 80 m, so the way is mostly downhill, but it is a long, stony and demanding day.
The season runs from about June to the end of October, and it depends on the weather. Between Vetlahelvete and Vassbygdi mobile phone coverage is missing, so tell somebody your plan, carry a paper map or a downloaded map and start early. The bus from Flåm to Østerbø takes about 60 minutes. It runs daily in July and August, and from Friday to Sunday in June, September and October.
Because the walk ends at Vassbygdi, you do not return to your start. Work out how you get back to Flåm before you set out, and count the bus ride to Østerbø into your day. Pack water, food, rain clothes and sturdy shoes, since the track is stony and the weather in the mountains can change quickly. Our getting there page explains how to reach Flåm in the first place.
Our pick: a drive between walking days
This is a drive with viewpoint stops, not a hike, but it fits an off day between walks.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in euros (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Sognefjord tours and day trips
Guided tours and day trips around the Sognefjord, including a small-group tour by minibus with viewpoints, with live prices and availability.
Flåmsdalen and cycling
An operator in Flåm offers a walk in the Flåmsdalen valley in spring, summer and autumn. Bicycles can be rented in the same seasons. The high mountain track of the Rallarvegen is not a year-round cycling route, so do not plan on it outside the warm months. Ask the rental point in Flåm about the current state of the tracks before you set off, and keep a margin for the weather.
If you want to take your own bike on the train, you need a bike ticket through Vy or Entur. The line between Flåm and Myrdal is 20 km long and takes about 55 minutes each way, which the Flåmsbana page describes in detail.
Winter: snowshoe walks
In winter the offer shifts from hiking to snowshoe walks. An operator in Flåm runs snowshoe tours, and the meeting point is 15 minutes before the start. Not every summer trail is open or safe in winter, so do not take the summer plan and just add snow. Our winter page shows what runs from October to March, and the page on the best time to visit helps you pick a season.
Right to roam and fire rules
Norway allows everybody to walk in the countryside. If you camp with a tent, keep at least 150 m from inhabited houses and cabins, unless local rules say otherwise, and respect protected areas. From 15 April to 15 September a general ban on open fires applies in and near forests. The right to roam is not a permit to park a motorhome anywhere for the night.
Do not disturb wild animals or birds, especially in the breeding season, and leave livestock alone. Do not count on seeing animals. Check reports about trails, roads and timetables before you leave. If you need a way to the valley without a car, our getting there page shows the options.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Aurlandsdalen walk?
From Østerbø to Vassbygdi the route is just under 19 km and takes 6 to 8 hours.
When can I hike the Aurlandsdalen valley?
The season runs from about June to the end of October. Whether you can walk it depends on the weather.
Is there mobile coverage in the valley?
Not between Vetlahelvete and Vassbygdi. Plan the walk without a phone.
Can I camp anywhere?
Under the right to roam you must keep at least 150 m from inhabited houses and cabins. From 15 April to 15 September fires are restricted in and near forests.