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Trail and rock formation · Odda, Vestland
Trolltunga
The Troll's Tongue: a slab of rock that juts out horizontally over the void, about 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, at the end of a mountain trail of 20 to 27 km round trip from Odda.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Trolltunga
Trolltunga, the Troll's Tongue, is a slab of rock that projects horizontally from the mountain at about 1,100 meters elevation and 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, northeast of Odda. Its shape comes from a block that broke away along a fissure during the last glaciation. The photo of a person sitting on the tip of the tongue with the lake far below made the trail famous worldwide.
The walk is long. From the Skjeggedal car park, near Tyssedal, it's about 27 km round trip, with over 1,000 meters of ascent, taking 10 to 12 hours. From the higher car park, Mågelitopp, which has limited spaces and usually shuttle buses, it's about 20 km, taking 7 to 9 hours. The path is waymarked with red signs and distance posts, passes rocky plateaus, lakes and snow sections until early summer, and has emergency shelters along the route.
At the top there is often a queue for the photo on the rock tip in summer. Beside the tongue the plateau opens out with views of the lake, the mountains of the Hardangervidda plateau and the Folgefonna glacier in the distance.
The trail is usually done from mid-June to mid-September without a guide. Outside that period, with snow, cold and short days, it should only be done with a guide and winter equipment. There are also guided trips in summer, including the option to camp on the plateau to see the rock at dawn.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
7 to 9 hours from Mågelitopp; 10 to 12 hours from Skjeggedal.
Best time
From mid-June to mid-September, when the trail is usually snow-free. Start early, preferably at dawn, to return in daylight. Check the forecast: with fog and rain the trail becomes more difficult and the view disappears. Outside the season, only go with a guide.
How to get there
The trailhead is at Skjeggedal, about 13 km from Odda via Tyssedal. In season there are usually buses from Odda to Skjeggedal and shuttles to Mågelitopp. By car, parking is paid and limited; book ahead.
Tip
Bring hiking boots, layered clothing, a rain jacket, hat, gloves, a torch/headlamp, water and food for the day. Plan your return time and stick to it. Sleep in Odda the night before to set off early.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Trolltunga
How long does the Trolltunga trail take?
7 to 9 hours round trip from Mågelitopp, and 10 to 12 hours from Skjeggedal.
When can the trail be done without a guide?
It is usually mid-June to mid-September. Outside that period, when there is snow, the hike is done with a guide.
Where to stay to do Trolltunga?
In Odda or in Tyssedal the night before, to start early. There are also guided trips that include overnight camping in tents up high.
Do you need to reserve parking?
The parking lots at Skjeggedal and Mågelitopp have limited spaces and usually require reservations in season.
Is there a bus to the trailhead?
In season there are typically buses from Odda to Skjeggedal and connecting services to Mågelitopp. Check the timetables.