Western Norway is a treasure trove for hikers and trekkers looking to explore dramatic landscapes, towering fjords, and quiet trails away from the crowds. This region’s rugged beauty is on full display in its renowned sites like Preikestolen, Lysefjorden, and the surrounding mountains. Among the many options, we’re particularly fond of the Preikestolen Sunrise Hike, which offers a peaceful dawn experience, and the Hidden Trail Hike with Lunch and Canoe Trip, which promises solitude and stunning views. For those craving a more extensive adventure, the Lysefjorden Bike and Hike combines cycling and hiking over three memorable days through some of Norway’s most varied scenery.
Below, you’ll find our top three picks for Hiking and Trekking Tours in Western Norway. Each offers a unique way to experience the region’s natural wonders—whether during early morning serenity, hidden trail exploration, or multi-day cycling excursions. These options are chosen for their authenticity, quality, and the memorable moments they promise.
1. Preikestolen Sunrise Hike And Breakfast Buffet
At number 1, the Preikestolen Sunrise Hike is perfect for early risers who want an intimate experience with one of Norway’s most famous viewpoints. This guided dawn trek lets you skip the crowds that pack the trail during peak summer months (June–August). Instead, you’ll enjoy the tranquility of the mountain as the first light hits the rock formation that juts out over Lysefjorden. The tour lasts about 9 hours, including the hike and a hearty breakfast buffet at the end, making it a full but rewarding day.
The tour’s most compelling feature is the peace of hiking during dawn, when the landscape is bathed in twilight and the air is fresh. The guides, like Christian and Stephan, are praised for their professionalism and local knowledge, helping you navigate the challenging sections and capture stunning photos. The reviews highlight how demanding the hike is, but also how worth it the experience is — “Very demanding but totally worth it,” says one guest. This tour is ideal if you want a quieter, more reflective way to witness Preikestolen’s iconic face without the crowds.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for early risers and those who value solitude and spectacular sunrise views over their adventure.
2. Preikestolen Hidden Trail Hike + Lunch and Canoe Trip
For approximately $213, this hidden trail hike offers a truly unique perspective on Preikestolen’s surroundings. The exclusive route avoids the busy main trail, taking you along a secret trail that provides breathtaking views of Lysefjorden from vantage points few travelers ever see. This tour also features a relaxing canoe ride, adding a water-based adventure to the hiking experience, and includes a traditional Norwegian packed lunch. The entire day lasts around 9 hours, making it a full, enriching exploration.
Guests consistently praise the unspoiled beauty of this route with comments like, “Our canoe and hike was spectacular. We saw no one until the top.” The guides, such as Stephan and Chris, are noted for their fitness, friendliness, and ability to tailor the pace. The hike’s main appeal is the feeling of discovery—being above the crowds and immersed in nature, with some even reaching higher vantage points than Preikestolen itself.
Bottom Line: This tour suites travelers who want a quieter, more intimate experience of Lysefjorden’s scenery combined with a canoe adventure and a delicious packed lunch.
3. Lysefjorden Bike and Hike
If you’re looking for a multi-day outdoor experience, the Lysefjorden Bike and Hike combines cycling, hiking, and boat trips over three days. Starting at Preikestolen Fjellstue, the journey includes a 20 km ride from Jørpeland to Lauvik, with gentle terrain and stunning fjord vistas. The second day features a scenic ride past Alsvik and Fiskå, culminating in a short boat crossing across Lysefjorden to Helgøy. The third day involves a challenging climb from Aardal to Lysefjorden, where you’ll enjoy expansive views of mountains, lakes, and fjords.
This tour is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want to see a wide variety of landscapes—from lush valleys to mountain peaks—while combining different modes of transport. It’s a demanding but well-rounded trip, praised for its diverse scenery and expert guides. The trip is suited for active travelers with a good fitness level, looking for a comprehensive taste of Norway’s outdoor scenery in just three days.
The value here is exceptional; for the price, you get a mix of cycling, boat rides, and hiking, all guided by professionals with deep knowledge of the region. The only potential downside is the intensity of the activities, making it less suitable for casual walkers or families with very young children.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for active travelers wanting an immersive multi-day adventure across Norway’s mountains, fjords, and valleys.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these options depends largely on your interests, fitness level, and time. If you love the idea of experiencing Preikestolen with the calm of dawn, the Sunrise Hike provides a peaceful start to the day. For a more exclusive and quiet experience, the Hidden Trail Hike + Canoe is unbeatable. And if you want to combine cycling, hiking, and boat trips over a few days, the Lysefjorden Bike and Hike offers a comprehensive adventure.
Consider your budget: the Sunrise Hike is the most affordable at around $129 per person, while the Bike and Hike is a three-day, premium experience costing over $2,300. Think about your fitness: the hidden trail and bike tours involve more physical effort but reward you with unmatched vistas and fewer crowds.
Booking early is wise, especially in summer months when tours fill quickly. All tours are best enjoyed during late spring to early autumn when the weather is most reliable for outdoor activities.
Final Thoughts
Western Norway offers a wide range of hiking and trekking experiences to suit different preferences. For those who seek a quiet sunrise moment, the Preikestolen Sunrise Hike is ideal. If you prefer discovering hidden trails without the crowds, the Hidden Trail Hike with Canoe delivers both solitude and adventure. And for travelers craving a multi-day, active exploration, the Lysefjorden Bike and Hike combines cycling, hiking, and boating into a memorable journey.
No matter which tour you pick, these experiences promise unforgettable views and a true taste of Norway’s rugged beauty. Remember to book early, pack appropriate gear, and get ready for some of Europe’s most breathtaking outdoor adventures.