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Glacier · Loen, Vestland
Kjenndalsbreen
The tongue of the Jostedalsbreen glacier that descends from the plateau to the bottom of the Loen valley at the end of Lovatnet, with meltwater waterfalls and a short walk to a viewpoint in front of the ice.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Kjenndalsbreen
Kjenndalsbreen is an arm of the Jostedalsbreen glacier that descends from the plateau in steps of blue ice down to the floor of Kjenndalen valley at the end of Lovatnet, about 20 km from Loen. From the car park, next to a small café, a short walk of about 15–20 minutes leads to a viewpoint in front of the glacier tongue.
The scene includes rock walls polished by the ice, meltwater waterfalls dropping from both sides and a grey-green river flowing from the glacier to the lake. The ice front can be seen up close, with crevasses and bluish blocks, and on warm days the ice can be heard cracking.
The glacier has retreated in recent decades, and the position of the front changes from year to year. Signs and ropes along the path indicate how far you may go; it is best to follow the instructions and local guides and not go beyond the markings.
Access to the head of the valley is via the road that runs alongside Lovatnet, with the last stretch a toll section, and it is usually open from May to September.
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
30 minutes to 1 hour at the valley bottom; 2 to 4 hours including the route from Loen.
Best time
From May to September, when the road to Kjenndalen is usually open. On warm days the meltwater waterfalls are often fuller. Check conditions before you go.
How to get there
It is located at the head of Lodalen valley, about 20 km from Loen, via the road along the shore of Lovatnet and a short toll section. There is parking near the café.
Tip
Combine it with Lovatnet on the same trip. Bring a jacket: it is colder near the ice. Follow the trail markings.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kjenndalsbreen
Can you get close to the glacier?
Yes, up to a viewpoint in front of the ice front, by a short walk. Follow the markings and local instructions.
Is the glacier retreating?
It has retreated in recent decades, and the position of the ice front changes from year to year.
How to get there?
Via the Loen valley road, along Lovatnet, with the final stretch tolled.
When to go?
From May to September, when the road is usually open.