Plizio Visual Lab

Rauma River

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

River

Weather…

The Rauma River originates from Lake Lesjaskogsvatnet and flows for 68 kilometers through the spectacular Romsdalen valley before emptying into the Romsdalsfjord at Åndalsnes. It is renowned for its steep gradient and numerous dramatic waterfalls, with Slettafossen being among the most famous. The valley is flanked by massive rock faces like Trollveggen, Europe's highest vertical wall, providing a unique backdrop to the river landscape. Historically, the Rauma was a legendary salmon river, attracting many British aristocrats for sport fishing in the 19th century and thus establishing early tourism in the region. An engineering masterpiece along the river is the Kylling Bridge on the Rauma Line, one of Norway's most photographed railway bridges. Today, protecting the river from hydroelectric projects is a central priority to preserve natural salmon spawning grounds and the valley's pristine beauty for future generations.

Location: Norway
Nearby: Trollstigen (6 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	-5	-5	-3	0	4	8	12	11	8	2	-2	-4
Rain mm	198	164	160	119	114	141	155	168	185	151	184	210

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The river is easily accessed via the E136 highway, which runs directly parallel to it through the Romsdalen valley. Alternatively, the spectacular Rauma Railway provides scenic stops along the water's edge.

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Best season

The prime season runs from mid-June to August, which is the most active time for salmon and trout fishing. Spring is also impressive for sightseeing, as melting snow creates spectacular surrounding waterfalls.

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Terrain & paths

Visitors will encounter mostly accessible riverbanks mixed with some uneven, rocky sections. Designated fishing zones and viewpoints usually have clear, easy-to-navigate paths leading right to the water.

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What to bring

If you plan to fish, local permits and strictly disinfected waders are legally required to protect the ecosystem. For casual sightseeing, standard walking shoes and a light rain jacket are perfectly adequate.

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Parking

There are numerous well-marked lay-bys, rest areas, and viewpoints situated directly along the highway. These provide immediate, convenient access to the river and rarely require any payment.

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Safety

The river possesses extremely powerful undercurrents and the water remains dangerously cold year-round. Extreme caution is advised when walking near the slippery, wet stones on the immediate banks.

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Time needed

Stops along the river can range from brief 30-minute photo breaks to full-day dedicated angling sessions. A leisurely walk along one of the designated riverbank trails usually takes about an hour.

Geography

Coordinates

62.40000, 7.70000

Facts

The total length of the river is 68 kilometers.
Empties into the Romsdalsfjord at Åndalsnes.
Famous for the impressive Slettafossen waterfall.
Flows past the base of the Trollveggen vertical wall.
The Kylling Bridge crosses the river at a height of 59 meters.
Historically significant watercourse for Atlantic salmon.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Trollstigen6 km · NExplore →

Trollveggen9 km · NExplore →

Trolltindene9 km · NExplore →

Åndalsnes19 km · NExplore →

Veatinden35 km · SWExplore →

Geiranger42 km · SWExplore →

Geirangerfjord45 km · SWExplore →

Molde46 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is fishing allowed in the Rauma River?

Yes, the river is famous for salmon; a fishing license is required.

Are there boat tours?

There are no large ships, but rafting is popular in the upper reaches.

What is the most famous sight along the river?

The Trollveggen (Troll Wall), Europe's highest vertical rock face.

Can you hike along the river?

Yes, there are many paths with views of the spectacular rapids.

Are there campsites?

Yes, there are several well-equipped campsites along the Romsdalen Valley.

Rauma River: where is it located?

Rauma River is located in Norway.

Rauma River: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Rauma River: why is it worth visiting?

The Rauma River originates from Lake Lesjaskogsvatnet and flows for 68 kilometers through the spectacular Romsdalen valley before emptying into the Romsdalsfjord at Åndalsnes.

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