Plizio Visual Lab
Hallingskarvet
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Hallingskarvet Plateau is a distinctive mountain ridge in southern Norway, stretching approximately 35 kilometers between the Hallingdal region and the Hardangervidda plateau. Geologically, it is a nappe structure where ancient Precambrian rocks were thrust over younger layers, resulting in the characteristic steep cliffs and flat top that define its silhouette. The highest peak, Folarskardnuten, reaches 1,933 meters above sea level and provides expansive views across southern Norway on clear days. In 2006, the area was designated as Hallingskarvet National Park to preserve its unique alpine flora, fauna, and geological heritage. The plateau is also famously associated with the Norwegian philosopher Arne Næss, who built his remote cabin 'Tvergastein' here and developed his deep ecology theory. Today, the region is a haven for hikers in the summer and cross-country skiers in the winter, hosting the renowned Skarverennet ski race annually.
- Location: Norway
- Nearby: Geilo (20 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -9 | -9 | -7 | -3 | 2 | 8 | 11 | 9 | 5 | -1 | -6 | -8 |
| Rain mm | 95 | 67 | 71 | 71 | 98 | 120 | 153 | 142 | 116 | 110 | 99 | 96 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The massive high plateau is mostly accessed from mountain villages like Geilo or Ustaoset, which serve as well-suited starting points. From there, well-marked summer and winter trails typically lead up into the barren mountains.
Best season
July and August are generally considered the safest and most pleasant months for hiking on this distinct geological formation. Winter is impressive but is mostly reserved for experienced skiers due to fierce storms.
Terrain & paths
The landscape is characterized by extremely steep flanks leading to a highly uneven, boulder-strewn high plateau. Hikers must be prepared for significant elevation changes and rough, unyielding rocky ground.
What to bring
For the rugged rocky ground, high-quality mountain boots with extremely grippy soles are absolutely essential. Because the open plateau is exposed to fierce winds, fully weatherproof alpine clothing must be part of your gear.
Parking
Safe parking options are generally found at the base stations of local ski resorts or at designated mountain lodges. Visitors can usually leave their vehicles there securely for the entire day while they hike.
Safety
Weather on the plateau can change within minutes even in summer, causing dangerous whiteout conditions. Due to the vastness of the terrain, physical maps and solid navigation skills are highly recommended.
Time needed
A complete round-trip hike up to the plateau and back down typically requires a full day of about six to eight hours. Shorter walks at the base of the mountains, however, often take only three to four hours.
Geography
Facts
- Highest point is Folarskardnuten at 1,933 meters
- Designated as a national park in the year 2006
- The ridge extends for approximately 35 kilometers
- Formed from ancient Precambrian migmatite and gneiss
- Home to Arne Næss's famous cabin, Tvergastein
- Site of the annual Skarverennet ski marathon
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Hallingskarvet?
It is a distinctive high mountain plateau and national park stretching 35 km in length.
How is the best way to reach the plateau?
The most popular starting points are Prestholtseter near Geilo or Finse on the Bergen Railway line.
What are the Prestholt stairs?
These are stone steps built by Sherpas from Nepal that facilitate the ascent to the summit plateau.
Can you hike there in winter too?
In winter, the area is good for cross-country skiing; hiking without skis or snowshoes is not possible.
Which animals live in the national park?
With luck, you can spot wild reindeer, Arctic foxes, and golden eagles.
Hallingskarvet: where is it located?
Hallingskarvet is located in Norway.
Hallingskarvet: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Hallingskarvet: why is it worth visiting?
The Hallingskarvet Plateau is a distinctive mountain ridge in southern Norway, stretching approximately 35 kilometers between the Hallingdal region and the Hardangervidda plateau.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Norway →
Nearby cities
Lillestrøm
Lillestrøm is a major transport hub east of Oslo.
Skien
Skien is one of the oldest cities in Norway.
Porsgrunn
Porsgrunn is situated at the mouth of the Telemark canal.
Hamar
Hamar is situated on the shores of Lake Mjøsa.
Milde
Milde is a tranquil coastal peninsula in Bergen, featuring scenic fjords, lush botanical gardens, and charming shores like Furevika.
Kongsberg
Kongsberg is a former mining town.
Gjøvik
Gjøvik is situated on the western shore of Lake Mjøsa.
Rommetveit
A scenic coastal village on the island of Stord in Norway, featuring lush landscapes and stunning fjord views.
Jessheim
Jessheim is a bustling commercial and transportation hub in Eastern Norway, located just a short distance from Oslo Airport.
Drøbak
Drøbak is a picturesque town by the Oslofjord in Norway, known for its quaint wooden houses, narrow streets, and beautiful beaches.
Sogsti
Sogsti is a serene coastal area near Drøbak on the Oslofjord, featuring family-friendly sandy beaches, rocky shores, and popular windsurf…
Brumunddal
Located on the shores of Lake Mjøsa, Brumunddal is famous for Mjøstårnet, the world's tallest timber building.
Førde
Førde is the administrative center of Vestland county.
Florø
Florø is Norway's westernmost city, a charming coastal hub with a rich fishing history and a stunning surrounding archipelago.
Råholt
Råholt is a charming town in Norway, known for its tranquil atmosphere and proximity to Oslo.
