Briksdal: Walk the Valley to the Glacier View

Choose Briksdal for a valley approach to a glacier view, with waterfalls and polished rock along the way. Start at Briksdalsbre Fjellstove, follow the signed river route toward Briksdalsbreen, and return to the lodge by the same permitted route. The visit ends at the managed viewing area, not on the ice.

The local operator describes 2.5 km and 40–60minutes for the approach from the mountain lodge. Retracing it gives approximately 5 km of walking by calculation, with additional time for stops. The glacier has retreated, and the present view need not match a photograph taken when the ice filled the lake.

Arrive in Briksdal, beyond Olden

Drivers use the paid parking just below the lodge. For public transport, the local access page links the Glacier Bus and an Olden–Briksdal shuttle. Confirm a date-specific journey both ways before choosing the walk; a cruise arrival at Olden is not arrival at the trailhead.

Follow the path or road up the valley, passing the Kleivafossen area and remaining on the managed route. Return along the same approach after the viewpoint. A newer southern footpath also exists, but this outing does not depend on an unmeasured circuit or an assumed crossing.

A Troll Car still leaves a walk

The Troll Car operator departs beside the souvenir shop and stops at Kleivane. From there it is about 500 m on foot to the lake, followed by the walk back to the vehicle. The published round trip takes about 1.5 hours including a stop. It operates in Briksdal and does not provide the transfer from Olden's cruise terminal.

The stated season is May–October. Advance booking is mandatory in May and from September 20. A one-way ticket is sold only for the upward journey; you cannot assume you can walk up and buy a ride down. Book a complete arrangement that suits your return before setting off.

NVE's glacier safety advice warns of falling ice and sudden water releases. Stay behind barriers and away from the glacier front; the valley path does not qualify you for glacier travel. Read current local information and ask the lodge about the route if weather or seasonal conditions are uncertain. The turnaround guide helps protect the walk and your return ride.