Hiking across the high mountain plateau of "Vidden" between Bergen’s two most famous peaks is a thrilling and physically rewarding wilderness escape. The adventure begins by taking the Ulriken643 cable car up to the summit of Mount Ulriken, Bergen’s highest peak. From there, you follow a well-marked trail marked by stone cairns across an open, windswept mountain plateau, offering endless, dramatic views of the surrounding fjords, lakes, and snow-capped peaks.
The experience highlights Norway's deep connection to nature (friluftsliv), taking you away from the tourist crowds and into a silent alpine world of moss-covered rocks, clear mountain pools, and dramatic mountain ridges before descending into the pine forests of Mount Fløyen.
One fun fact people love:
The stone cairns marking the Vidden trail have stood for over a century, built to guide local hikers through the thick, sudden mountain fogs that can roll in from the North Sea.
Where in Bergen is it?
The trail runs across the mountain ridge east of the city, starting at Mount Ulriken and ending at Mount Fløyen.
How to reach:
Take the local bus (Line 5, 6, or 12) from the center to the Haukeland Sykehus stop, walk to the Ulriken Cable Car station, ride to the top, and follow the Vidden signs.
Best time to visit:
June to September when the mountain snow has fully melted and the trails are clear, dry, and safe.
Best time of day:
Early morning around 8:30 AM to ensure you have plenty of daylight to complete the long hike at a relaxed, comfortable pace.
Entry fee:
The trail is completely free to hike; a one-way ticket for the Ulriken Cable Car costs approximately NOK 210.
Commute difficulty:
Challenging; requires a high level of physical fitness, sturdy hiking boots, and a comfort with walking over uneven, rocky, and wet terrain.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- The weather on the open plateau can change in minutes; even on a sunny summer day, always pack windproof, waterproof layers and a warm hat.
- There are no toilets, shops, or shelters along the 15-kilometer trail, so you must pack plenty of water, high-energy snacks, and a picnic lunch.
- The trail can be muddy and boggy in sections, so high-ankle, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended over standard sneakers.
