Skåla
A classic, challenging hike that climbs straight from sea level to the 1,848-meter summit, where a stone tower hut overlooks Nordfjord and the Jostedal Glacier.
Skåla lies on the east side of Loen village and is known for climbing from sea level to 1,848 meters in one go, making it one of Norway's most demanding single-day hikes. The trailhead is at the Tjugen parking lot near Loen. The trail passes the glacial lake Skålavatnet on its way to the summit. The one-way distance is about 9 km, and the round trip takes 7 to 9 hours with roughly 1,800 meters of ascent. At the summit stands a round stone tower hut called Skålatårnet, built in 1891, which can be booked for overnight stays. On clear days you can see Nordfjord, Lodalen, and the Jostedal Glacier. A Skåla mountain race is held every July. Note: good fitness is required, and the high ground often has snow until June. The weather changes quickly, so bring windproof and warm clothing and plenty of water.
Opening hours
All day (best July–September)
Nearby sights
- Lovatnet
- Ramnefjellsfossen
- Strynsvatnet
- Jostedalsbreen National Park Centre
- Via Ferrata Loen
- Bødalsbreen
- Olden
- Kjenndalsbreen