Crossing the Lofoten Islands on foot in 7 days: 122 km, 7000 m D+, fjords, beaches and mountains. A spectacular trek from north to south of the Norwegian archipelago. This Great Crossing of the Lofotens was completed in late July–early August 2025, based on an itinerary proposed by enthusiasts and compiled on the blog rando-lofoten.net. The goal was ambitious: to link the archipelago from north to south exclusively on foot, combining marked trails, off-trail sections and a few essential connections by public transport or boat. In short, a Great Crossing of the Lofotens that is demanding but achievable.

Due to lack of public transport access to Delp during the peak school holiday period, and after reading several feedback reports indicating a third stage that was technically very challenging, we voluntarily skipped the first three stages. Consequently, the route was condensed into eight stages over seven days, for approximately 122 kilometres and nearly 7000 metres of cumulative positive elevation gain. Thus, our Great Crossing of the Lofotens is shorter than the original route.

The trek alternates between steep mountains, fjords, white sand beaches and alpine lakes, with clement weather. It is a demanding hike, but perfectly achievable with good preparation and a certain tolerance for the Norwegian unexpected.

Table of Contents

Day-by-day itinerary

DAY 0 – Transport from Narvik and approach to Sundklakk at Vikjorda

7.27 km – 62 m ascent and 43 m descent

We take the bus in the early afternoon from Narvik to Sundklakk, the last point accessible by bus. As soon as we get off the bus, the rain stops. This allows us to walk the last few kilometres on the road in the dry to reach the start of our trek. A rainbow accompanies our first steps until we set up camp at Vikjorda. A good omen for this Great Crossing of the Lofotens.

DAY 1 – Vikjorda to Store Kringlebotnsvatnet

20.43 km – 1290 m ascent and 1072 m descent

First real day of walking and immediate immersion into the thick of it. An off-trail section is necessary to reach the first summit. It immediately reveals the steep nature of the Lofotens. This stretch is quite steep, with a fair amount of vegetation, but remains technically manageable. The GPX track includes this passage, but I advise looking for an alternative. Indeed, it is one of the few long, unpleasant off-trail sections we encountered.

The climbs and descents follow one another relentlessly. Throughout the trek, nearly 7000 metres of positive elevation gain await us. This day sets the tone.

Upon arrival, we had spotted a cabin on the map, but it was already well occupied. So we continue to the edge of Store Kringlebotnsvatnet to pitch the tent in a misty atmosphere.

DAY 2 – Store Kringlebotnsvatnet to Nusfjord

30.86 km – 906 m ascent and 1167 m descent

Very early wake-up to double the day’s stage. The mist gradually clears as we approach Leknes, where we stock up on food. The GPX track even leads to the Lofoten Bakeri bakery. Ideal for a gourmet break: excellent pastries and the possibility to charge phones.

An underwater tunnel forbidden to pedestrians forces us to take a bus to the hamlet of Napp. The hike then resumes on a magnificent coastal path. The sea and its turquoise hues accompany us under finally clear skies. However, the terrain remains punctuated by steep sections and route variations. Twice we had to do a little climbing to find a correct path, probably avoidable.

The day ends at Nusfjord, a former classified fishing village. There is also a restaurant if you can’t be bothered to cook. We then continue a little further to find a bivouac spot. We pitch the tent at coordinates 68°01’37.0″N 13°19’57.5″E, on a promontory with a magnificent view of the sea.

Apparently, it is sometimes possible to see orcas at Nusfjord.

DAY 3 – Nusfjord to Ramberg

15.59 km – 208 m ascent and 236 m descent

The start of the day continues from the previous one, on a small coastal path to Nesland. Once past the hamlet, we follow a quiet road before joining the E10, the main very busy axis that crosses the Lofotens. We walk the last two kilometres along this road and arrive quite early at Ramberg.

Given the weather forecast, we decide to book a night at Ramberg Resort. And we were right: in the afternoon, the rain comes down hard. Being dry is particularly comforting. It also allows us to do some much-needed laundry and cook a good meal in a real kitchen.

The rain will fall all night, but this will ultimately be the only time on the trek that it is so persistent.

In Ramberg, it is also possible to stock up on supplies: there are no more shops until the end of day 6.

DAY 4 – Ramberg to Selfjord

17.70 km – 773 m ascent and 769 m descent

The day starts in thick mist. We decide to take the bus for the first few kilometres which are on the main road (E10). Then, via a secondary road, we join a path winding through tall plants still wet from the previous day. Climbing towards the morning summit, Ryten, the clouds slowly tear apart. They gradually reveal one of the most spectacular panoramas of the hike: cliffs plunging onto the beach and turquoise sea. We enjoy the spot for a while. This is one of the most popular hikes, easily accessible in a day from the road. So it is the first place where we notice increased crowds on this Great Crossing of the Lofotens. We are glad we left early!

The trail then descends towards Kvalvika beach below. We walk along it (several very beautiful camping spots, but you won’t be alone), before climbing again towards alpine lakes.

This area is superb but protected: camping seems prohibited and swimming in the lakes is not allowed. The trail then descends facing a fjord.

We end the day at Selfjord, enjoying the last rays of sunshine, a book in hand. An ideal way to conclude this perfect day!

At Selfjord, there is a chalet where it seems possible to stay, but you need to book in advance.

DAY 5 – Selfjord to Krokvatnet

17.93 km – 1149 m ascent and 795 m descent

Still misty at wake-up, quickly swept away by the wind to reveal superb panoramas. After a first climb followed by a descent of about 400 m, it is possible to detour to the huge Horseid beach. This spot seems ideal for camping.

A second climb and descent of about 200 m brings us to Kjerkfjorden. There, a boat allows us to bypass a mountain too steep to cross on foot. This boat is also used by day hikers. So the area is a bit more crowded. It drops us off at Vindstad. It would also have been possible to be dropped off at Forsfjord, but that required a prior reservation that we were unable to make. In the other direction, from Forsfjord, the logic is the same: you need to organise and book the crossing in advance. At Vindstad, a small café run by volunteers in high season allows you to have a snack, but not really to do a full resupply.

The afternoon, especially on the section leading to Forsfjord, becomes more technical. The passages require attention and patience, although the terrain is generally flat. After completing a large part of the last climb of the day upstream of the fjord, an approaching thunderstorm pushes us to speed up. We want to leave the high point as quickly as possible and reach Krokvatnet, where we pitch the tent facing the lake. In the end, the storm passes in the distance: we enjoy a well-deserved swim, followed by a nice refreshing shower.

If you have time, from there it is possible to reach Hermannsdalstinden culminating at over 1000 metres.

DAY 6 – Krokvatnet to Ågvatnet

16.96 km – 833 m ascent and 1195 m descent

Not having gone to Hermannsdalstinden, we instead head to the north peak of Munken, the highest point of our hike at about 770 metres above sea level. The views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular. They allow us to realise the rugged and successive relief of the Lofotens.

The descent brings us back to the coast, where we resupply at Sørvågen. We pass through Å (pronounced “O”) where it is possible to finish the hike or continue for a final out-and-back. We opt for the latter for the last stage, before following the Ågvatnet to bivouac on its western side. There is an open shelter, where you can pitch the tent or even sleep in the open air, along the path at this location: 67°53’15.5″N 12°55’34.3″E.

DAY 7 – Ågvatnet to Å via Stokkvika

9.96 km – 902 m ascent and 907 m descent

Last day. I set off alone at a good pace for a round trip to the isolated bay of Stokkvika, the westernmost point of the hike, while my friend enjoys a quiet morning. This sporty section can be skipped if you are short on time.

We then walk together the last kilometres to Å, the symbolic end point of the crossing. The ferry awaits us to reach the Norwegian peninsula at Bodø and continue my interrail. We leave the Lofotens with the feeling of having crossed a condensed version of Norway on foot. This Great Crossing of the Lofotens will remain an exceptional memory.

Distance and elevation table + GPX

Day	Start → Finish + GPX(1)	Distance	Ascent / Descent
0	Sundlakk → Vikjorda	7.27 km	+62 / −43
1	Vikjorda → Store Kringlebotnsvatnet	20.43 km	+1290 / −1072
2	Store Kringlebotnsvatnet → Nusfjord (Part 1, 2)	30.86 km	+906 / −1167
3	Nusfjord → Ramberg	15.59 km	+208 / −236
4	Ramberg → Selfjord	17.70 km	+773 / −769
5	Selfjord → Krokvatnet (Part 1, 2)	17.93 km	+1149 / −795
6	Krokvatnet → Ågvatnet	16.96 km	+833 / −1195
7	Ågvatnet → Å via Stokkvika	9.96 km	+902 / −907
TOTAL	Full GPX	136.70 km	+6123 / −6184

⁽¹⁾ The GPX tracks mentioned in this article are provided for reference only. They should not be followed as an official guide or a safe route. Mountain conditions are constantly changing and can make a path unsuitable or dangerous.

Practical tips

Bivouac and environment

Bivouacking is allowed almost everywhere thanks to the Norwegian right of access to nature, provided you respect distances from dwellings and the environment. For natural needs, I recommend bringing a light trowel to dig a hole and leave no trace. A lighter can be used to burn paper, but only away from any vegetation that could catch fire.

What to pack for bivouac

To complete this Great Crossing of the Lofotens self-sufficiently, the contents of your pack play a key role: lightweight tent suitable for wind, warm sleeping system, waterproof clothing, offline mapping, stove and compact food.

I detail all my gear in a dedicated article that you can find here: [link to gear article].

Difficulty and physical condition

The Lofotens are a spectacular but demanding region. The terrain is short, steep and repetitive, with a constant succession of climbs and descents, sometimes off-trail. Good physical condition is essential, as is the ability to adapt to rapid weather changes.

Duration

We completed 8 of the 11 stages of the Great Crossing of the Lofotens in 7 days, alternating long days and shorter sections depending on weather and logistics. Despite being used to hiking, some stages proved particularly long.

If you have more time, I advise spreading the itinerary over a few extra days. This allows you to fully enjoy the landscapes and reduce fatigue.

It may also be interesting to include the first three stages planned on the rando-lofoten.net website that we chose to skip. However, you must take into account the more complex access to Delp during school holidays and the technical nature of stage 3.

Easy travel games to pack

Long evenings under the tent or weather breaks are ideal for bringing out a light, compact game. Cards or phone games provide entertainment without weighing down your pack.

I share a selection of games perfect for trekking and bivouacking in this section of the blog: Travel games.

Mosquitoes and nuisances

Mosquitoes don’t seem to appreciate the local microclimate. Apart from one windless evening with a few annoying tiny flies, we did not encounter any problematic insects.

Recommended season

From late June to early September, with a preference for July and August to benefit from very long days. The Lofoten climate remains changeable, even in summer. Northern lights generally become visible from late September, when nights darken. However, this implies shorter days, more unstable weather and more limited transport services.

Overall, even in high season, the route remains uncrowded. Only a few more popular sections (days 4, 5 and 6) may see more people around the coastal panoramas.

Transport and logistics

Public transport is efficient but infrequent in rural areas. Therefore, it is essential to plan your connections in advance and remain flexible. Some connections, particularly undersea tunnels, are forbidden to pedestrians. The crossing is done mainly on foot, supplemented by local buses, hitchhiking and a boat crossing.

Access to the start – Narvik → Sundklakk

We reached Narvik by train as part of an Interrail trip. From Narvik, we took the Lofotekspressen bus (line 300) towards the Lofotens. We got off at Sundklakk stop, the last point accessible by public transport to reach the start of the hike at Vikjorda.

Mandatory public transport sections during the Great Crossing of the Lofotens

• Underwater tunnel towards Napp (DAY 2): as this tunnel is forbidden to pedestrians, we took a local bus from Leknes to reach the hamlet of Napp before resuming the hike along the coast.
• Maritime bypass (DAY 5): from Kjerkfjorden, a boat allows you to reach Vindstad to bypass a mountain too steep to cross on foot. It is also possible to be dropped off at Forsfjord to avoid the technical section between Vindstad and Forsfjord, but this generally requires a prior reservation. In the other direction, the logic is the same: from Forsfjord, you need to plan and book the crossing in advance. This link is also used by day hikers, which explains slightly higher traffic in the area.

Return – Å (Moskenes) → Bodø → Southern Norway

Upon arrival at Å, we went to the port of Moskenes to take the ferry to Bodø. This ferry is free for pedestrians (booking is mainly useful for vehicles). However, it is recommended to arrive early, as the number of spaces without a reservation is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. You can also book your place online in advance if you want to be sure to board the boat.

From the Bodø ferry terminal, the train station is within walking distance. I then took the train to continue my Interrail itinerary towards southern Norway.

Useful official websites

• Buses & ferries in northern Norway (Lofoten, Vesterålen, Bodø): https://reisnordland.no
• Express ferries & boats (including Bodø–Moskenes): https://www.torghatten-nord.no
• Norwegian trains (Vy): https://www.vy.no