Guide to Norwegian Mountain Huts

Planning a multi-day trek in Norway? This comprehensive guide covers DNT hut accommodation, booking systems, what to pack, camping regulations, and practical tips for staying in mountain huts. Whether you're planning a family weekend at an accessible lodge or a serious high-mountain traverse, here's how to make the most of Norway's extensive network of mountain huts.

Norway has one of Europe's most extensive mountain hut networks, with over 550 cabins managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). The system makes multi-day trekking accessible, comfortable and straightforward.

Hot meals, beds, and shelter right in serious mountain terrain transform a challenging hike into a mountain journey. Whether you're walking marked trails in Jotunheimen, exploring Hardangervidda's vast plateau, or trekking Lofoten's coastal peaks, the hut system opens up weeks of exploration without carrying heavy camping gear.

Where Are Norwegian Mountain Huts Located

Mountain huts are spread throughout Norway, from southern highlands to Arctic Finnmark, covering coastal routes, forested valleys, and high-alpine terrain.

The highest concentration sits in southern Norway's mountain regions: Jotunheimen, Rondane, Dovrefjell, Hardangervidda and the areas around Bergen. These regions have dramatic peaks, glacial valleys and popular long-distance routes that create the greatest demand.

Most huts sit between 900 and 1,800 metres elevation, though some reach higher in alpine areas. They're typically spaced 4–8 hours walking distance apart, making it possible to chain them together into logical stages.

Some huts are just 2–3 hours from roads, perfect for families or less experienced hikers. Others require full-day approaches through wild terrain, rewarding you with genuine remoteness and solitude.

Types of Norwegian Mountain Huts

Norway has three main types of mountain huts, each offering different levels of service and comfort. Understanding the difference helps you plan your trek properly.

1. Staffed Huts

Staffed huts are the most comfortable option and the most common type hikers encounter in summer.

What they offer:

• Open in summer, usually late June to late September

• Warden lives on-site during this period

• Hot meals provided (dinner and breakfast included)

• Bedding provided (sheets, blankets or duvets)

• Running water and basic washing facilities

• Emergency communication

• Weather forecasts and route advice from experienced staff

• Social atmosphere with communal dining

These huts feel welcoming and comfortable, though never luxurious. The focus remains on mountain simplicity rather than hotel amenities. Popular staffed huts include Gjendesheim, Spiterstulen, Glitterheim and Fondsbu in Jotunheimen, plus many others across southern Norway.

2. Self-Service Huts

Self-service huts are open year-round but have no staff on-site. You let yourself in using a DNT key (available to members), manage your own meals, and maintain the hut yourself.

What they offer:

• Open 24/7, all year

• Basic kitchen facilities with gas stoves

• Cooking equipment and utensils provided

• Sleeping platforms with mattresses

• No bedding provided (bring sleeping bag)

• Firewood (sometimes for a fee)

• Basic provisions available for purchase (honesty system)

• Emergency shelter always available

Self-service huts require more self-sufficiency but offer flexibility and quieter experiences. They work well for experienced hikers and are essential for winter ski touring when staffed huts close.

3. No-Service Huts

No-service huts are the most basic shelters, typically small stone or wood cabins in remote locations.

What they offer:

• Emergency shelter only

• No facilities, no provisions, no heating

• Sleeping platforms (sometimes)

• Unlocked and always accessible

• Intended for emergencies or very experienced hikers

These huts serve as backup options in bad weather or for hikers seeking maximum solitude and self-reliance.

What to Expect at Norwegian Mountain Huts

Facilities and Comfort

Norwegian huts vary in size and comfort. Staffed huts typically host 30–100 hikers in peak season. Smaller self-service huts accommodate 10–30 people. The most popular huts like Gjendesheim can host over 100 people and book out weeks in advance during July and August.

Sleeping arrangements are usually in shared dormitories, ranging from 4-bed rooms to large communal spaces. Staffed huts provide bedding (sheets and blankets), but you must bring your own sleeping bag liner for hygiene. Self-service huts provide mattresses only—bring your full sleeping bag.

Private rooms are rare in mountain huts. Some larger staffed huts offer small private or semi-private rooms that book out months in advance and cost significantly more.

Showers are available in many staffed huts, typically coin-operated to limit water use. Self-service huts rarely have showers. Water comes from mountain streams and must be heated carefully, so usage is limited.

Huts have a dining room or common area, which serves as the social heart. In staffed huts, dinner is served at communal tables at fixed times (typically 7:00–8:00 PM). Breakfast is served 7:00–8:00 AM. The atmosphere is warm and social.

Toilets range from modern flush facilities in larger staffed huts to composting or outdoor toilets in smaller or remote huts. All huts maintain them carefully.

Electricity is limited. Charging outlets may be available only at certain times or for a fee. Many huts use solar panels or small generators. Wi-Fi is rare, and phone signal is often weak or nonexistent at high altitude.

Drying rooms are standard in staffed huts for wet gear and boots. Self-service huts may have a drying area near the stove.

Norwegian Hut Cuisine

Staffed huts serve simple, hearty Norwegian mountain food. Wardens prepare meals for dozens of hungry hikers using limited kitchen facilities at altitude. Despite constraints, the food is almost always good and plentiful.

Fish cages in Central Norway summer day

Typical dinner menu:

• Soup (often vegetable or meat-based)

• Main course: pasta, rice, or potatoes with meat sauce, sausages, or fish

• Bread (always abundant)

• Dessert: fruit compote, yogurt, or simple cake

Norwegian specialties you might encounter:

• Lapskaus (thick meat and vegetable stew)

• Fårikål (mutton and cabbage stew)

• Kjøttkaker (Norwegian meatballs)

• Rømmegrøt (sour cream porridge)

• Salmon or trout (in areas near lakes and rivers)

Breakfast is typically Norwegian-style with bread, cheese, cold cuts, jam, yogurt, muesli and coffee or tea. Simple but filling enough for a full day's hiking.

Special diets: Most staffed huts accommodate vegetarian requests if you inform them when booking. Vegan, gluten-free or other dietary needs can be more challenging but are increasingly possible—always communicate requirements in advance.

The DNT System: Membership and Benefits

The Norwegian Trekking Association (Den Norske Turistforening - DNT) is a member organization that manages most mountain huts in Norway. Joining DNT provides significant benefits for anyone planning serious hiking in Norway.

DNT Membership Benefits

Standard membership costs approximately 575 NOK/year; 49€; 57$ (2024 prices) and includes:

• 40–50% discount on overnight stays in staffed huts

• Access to self-service huts (requires DNT key)

• Free access to no-service huts

• Discounts at partner outdoor shops

• Maps and guidebooks at reduced prices

• Support for mountain trail maintenance

Example savings:

• Staffed hut without membership: ~700 NOK/night; 59€; 69$

• Staffed hut with membership: ~400 NOK/night; 34€; 39$

• Self-service hut with membership: ~200–350 NOK/night; 17–30€; 20–35$

If you're planning 3+ nights in staffed huts, membership typically pays for itself immediately.

DNT Key (Nøkkel)

The DNT key costs ~250 NOK and unlocks all self-service huts. It's essential for:

• Year-round access to self-service huts

• Flexibility in route planning

• Winter ski touring

You can order the key online through DNT's website or pick it up at DNT offices in Oslo, Bergen or other major cities.

How to Join DNT

Join online at www.dnt.no or at DNT offices in major Norwegian cities. Membership is valid for 12 months from signup. Family memberships are available at discounted rates.

Best Time to Use Norwegian Mountain Huts

The main hiking season runs from late June to late September, when staffed huts are fully open and most high-mountain trails are snow-free.

Summer (Late June–August)

Summer is the busiest and most reliable season. Trails are fully accessible, staffed huts operate at full capacity, and weather is most stable.

• Late June to early July: Snow melts from high passes, trails open, fewer crowds

• Mid-July to mid-August: Peak season, best weather, very busy (book months ahead)

• Late August: Slightly quieter, still good weather, cooler nights

July and August coincide with Norwegian summer holidays, so popular routes like Besseggen, Trolltunga and Preikestolen get extremely crowded. Book 3–6 months in advance for these periods.

Autumn (September–Early October)

September offers some of the best hiking conditions of the year. Crisp air, brilliant autumn colours, fewer crowds and stable weather make it a favourite among experienced hikers.

• Early September: Still warm, trails open, much quieter

• Mid-September: Peak autumn colours, excellent visibility

• Late September: First snow possible at high altitude, some huts start closing

Many wardens consider September the best month in Norwegian mountains—crowds have dispersed but weather remains stable.

Spring (May–June)

Spring brings melting snow, swollen rivers and variable conditions. Most high-mountain trails remain snow-covered until late June. Valley huts open earlier, but high-alpine routes are only for experienced hikers with proper equipment.

Winter (October–April)

Winter transforms Norwegian mountains into a ski touring paradise. Staffed huts close, but self-service huts remain open year-round for winter expeditions.

Winter hiking requires:

• Ski touring equipment and skills

• Winter camping gear

• Avalanche knowledge and safety equipment

• Experience with winter navigation

How to Book Norwegian Mountain Huts

Booking Norwegian huts varies depending on the type of hut and the organization managing it.

Booking Staffed Huts

DNT staffed huts:

• Book online at www.dnt.no

• Book by phone (details on DNT website)

• Reservation strongly recommended July–August

• Payment typically at the hut (cash or card)

• Cancellation policies vary by hut

Privately operated huts:

• Some popular huts (like Gjendesheim) are privately operated

• Book directly through their websites or by phone

• Earlier booking required for peak season

Self-Service Huts

Self-service huts don't require advance booking—you simply arrive and use the honesty system to pay. However:

• You need DNT membership and key for access

• Popular huts can fill up (first-come, first-served)

• Register your stay in the logbook at the hut

• Pay using forms at the hut (invoice sent later)

Booking Tips

For popular routes (Besseggen, Jotunheimen, Trolltunga):

• Book 3–6 months ahead for July–August

• Consider September for easier availability

• Have backup plans if huts are fully booked

For quieter routes (Hardangervidda, Rondane, northern Norway):

• Booking 2–4 weeks ahead is usually sufficient

• Self-service huts offer more flexibility

Huts in Most Popular Hiking Regions

1. Jotunheimen

Norway's premier alpine region with the country's highest peaks. Jotunheimen has the densest concentration of staffed huts and attracts the most hikers.

Best for: Alpine scenery, ridge walks, summit hikes, classic Norwegian mountain experience.

Key huts

2. Hardangervidda

Europe's largest mountain plateau, offering vast open landscapes and endless trekking possibilities. Hardangervidda has a well-developed hut network with both staffed and self-service options.

Best for: Long-distance trekking, solitude, wide-open landscapes, fishing.

Key huts

3. Rondane

Norway's oldest national park with gentler, rounded peaks and peaceful highland scenery. Less crowded than Jotunheimen with excellent hut-to-hut routes.

Best for: Quieter trails, gentler terrain, wildlife (reindeer), family-friendly routes.

Key huts

4. Dovrefjell

Wild mountain region known for musk ox sightings and dramatic plateau landscapes. Mix of staffed and self-service huts.

Best for: Musk ox watching, challenging terrain, remote wilderness.

Key huts

5. Lyngen Alps and Northern Norway

Arctic mountain scenery with dramatic peaks rising from fjords. Fewer huts but spectacular landscapes.

Best for: Midnight sun hiking, Arctic landscapes, coastal mountains, ski touring.

Key areas

Planning Your Norwegian Hut-to-Hut Trek

Choosing Your Route

Norwegian hut networks allow flexible trek planning from single overnights to multi-week traverses.

Classic multi-day circuits (3–5 days):

• Besseggen and Gjende area (Jotunheimen)

• Glittertind circuit (Jotunheimen)

• Rondane traverse (Rondane)

• Central Hardangervidda loop

Family-friendly options (1–2 nights):

• Gjendesheim to Memurubu (via Besseggen)

• Spiterstulen area day hikes

• Preikestolen area huts

Long-distance traverses (1–4 weeks):

• Jotunheimen traverse (5–7 days)

• Hardangervidda crossing (7–10 days)

• Nordkalottleden (Arctic trail, 2–4 weeks)

How Far Between Huts

Most Norwegian huts are spaced 4–8 hours walking distance apart, roughly 12–20 kilometers depending on terrain and elevation gain. This creates comfortable daily stages without extreme fitness requirements.

Some remote sections (Hardangervidda, northern routes) have longer gaps between huts, sometimes requiring 8–10 hour days. Always study your route carefully and have contingency plans for weather delays.

Early departures help you complete high terrain before afternoon storms and give you buffer time if hiking takes longer than expected.

Prices and Payment

Typical Costs

Staffed huts (with DNT membership):

• Bed + dinner + breakfast: ~400–500 NOK/night; 34–42€; 40–50$

• Without membership: ~700–800 NOK/night; 59–68€; 69–79$

Self-service huts (with DNT membership):

• Bed only: ~200–350 NOK/night; 17–30€; 20–35$

• Without membership: Not available (membership required)

Additional Costs

• Packed lunch: 80–120 NOK; 7–10€; 8–12$

• Beer or wine: 40–60 NOK; 3–5€; 4–6$

• Soft drinks: 30–40 NOK; 3–4€; 3–4$

• Shower tokens: 20–30 NOK; 2–3€; 2–3$

• Snacks and chocolate: 20–50 NOK; 2–4€; 2–5$

Payment Methods

Most staffed huts now accept credit cards, but cash is recommended as backup. Norway uses Norwegian Kroner (NOK).

Self-service huts use an honesty payment system—you fill out forms at the hut and receive an invoice later. Payment is processed through your DNT membership.

ATMs are available in valley towns (Lom, Otta, Geilo, etc.). Withdraw cash before heading into the mountains, as there are no ATMs at huts.

What to Pack for Norwegian Hut Trekking

You only need essentials since huts provide meals and bedding (in staffed huts).

Essential Hut Items

For staffed huts:

• Sleeping bag liner (mandatory for hygiene)

• Light hut shoes or sandals

• Earplugs and eye mask

• Headlamp

• Quick-dry towel

• Basic wash kit (biodegradable soap)

• Warm layers (fleece or down jacket)

• Cash (Norwegian Kroner)

• Water bottles (2L total capacity)

For self-service huts (add these):

• Full sleeping bag (no bedding provided)

• Food for all meals

• Cooking fuel (gas canisters—sometimes available at huts)

• Matches/lighter

• Headlamp with extra batteries

Hiking Essentials

• Hiking boots (waterproof and broken in)

• Trekking poles (highly recommended)

• Waterproof jacket and pants

• Base layers and hiking clothes (moisture-wicking)

• Warm hat and gloves (even in summer)

• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen SPF 30+)

• First aid kit (blisters, pain relievers, personal medications)

• Map and compass/GPS (essential—phone signal unreliable)

• Phone and power bank

• Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit)

What NOT to Pack

• Sleeping bag (for staffed huts—bedding provided)

• Cooking gear (for staffed huts—meals provided)

• Excessive clothing

• Heavy toiletries

• Valuables

Practical Tips for Norwegian Hut Trekking

Emergency Numbers and Safety

Universal Emergency Number: 112

This number works throughout Norway and connects you to emergency services, mountain rescue, medical assistance and police.

Mountain Rescue:

• Reached via 112

• Norway has specialized mountain rescue teams

• Helicopter rescue available in most areas

Safety tips:

• Inform hut wardens of your next destination

• Check weather forecasts before departing each morning

• Carry extra layers—weather changes rapidly at altitude

• Turn back if conditions deteriorate

• In emergencies, stay calm, call 112, provide GPS coordinates

Mobile Phone Coverage

Phone coverage in Norwegian mountains is patchy and unreliable. Valley towns have good signal, but above 1,200–1,500 meters, service becomes intermittent.

Never rely on your phone as your only safety tool. Carry physical maps, know your route, and inform others of your plans. Most huts have emergency communication via radio or satellite phone.

Norwegian Hut Etiquette

Do:

• Remove boots at the entrance

• Arrive between 3:00–6:00 PM when possible

• Be on time for meals in staffed huts

• Keep noise down after 9:00 PM

• Hang wet clothes in designated areas

• Leave huts cleaner than you found them (self-service huts)

• Thank the warden before leaving

Don't:

• Wear boots inside

• Arrive late without calling ahead

• Leave trash anywhere

• Use showers for extended periods

• Play loud music

• Spread gear across multiple bunks

Weather Considerations

Norwegian mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Clear mornings can shift to rain, wind or fog within hours.

Best weather forecast sources:

• yr.no (Norway's most reliable forecast)

• varsom.no (avalanche and mountain conditions)

• Hut wardens (receive daily weather updates)

Weather patterns:

• Early mornings typically clearest

• Afternoon storms common in summer

• Fog can descend rapidly on ridges and plateaus

• Always carry waterproofs, even on clear days

Wardens receive updated forecasts via radio and can advise you each morning. Take their advice seriously—they know local conditions far better than any app.

Health and Fitness

Altitude: Most Norwegian huts sit below 1,800 meters, so altitude sickness is very rare. However, if you're coming from sea level, take the first day slowly and stay hydrated.

Fitness requirements: Hut-to-hut trekking requires good general fitness but not elite athleticism. If you can hike 5–7 hours with 600–1,000 meters elevation gain while carrying a 7–10kg pack, you'll manage most hut routes comfortably.

Train before your trip with regular hiking or stair climbing. The stronger you arrive, the more you'll enjoy the experience.

Blister prevention:

• Break in boots thoroughly before your trek

• Wear moisture-wicking socks (avoid cotton)

• Apply preventive tape to hot spots

• Keep toenails trimmed

• Change into dry socks at huts

Useful Norwegian Phrases for Huts

Basic phrases:

• Hei (hay) – Hello

• Takk (tahk) – Thank you

• Unnskyld (oon-shool) – Excuse me/sorry

• Snakker du engelsk? (snah-ker doo eng-elsk) – Do you speak English?

• Jeg har reservert (yay har reh-sehr-vert) – I have a reservation

• Hvor er toalettet? (voor air twah-leh-tet) – Where is the toilet?

• Hva blir været i morgen? (vah bleer vair-et ee mor-en) – What will the weather be tomorrow?

• God tur! (goo toor) – Have a good hike!

Useful words:

• Vann (vahn) – Water

• Sti (stee) – Trail

• Hytte (hoot-teh) – Hut/cabin

• Frokost (froo-kost) – Breakfast

• Middag (mid-dahg) – Dinner

• Nøkkel (nøk-kel) – Key

Most Norwegians speak excellent English, especially in mountain huts, so language is rarely a barrier. However, making an effort with basic Norwegian phrases is always appreciated.

Wild Camping and Bivouacking in Norway

Norway's Right to Roam (Allemannsretten) allows wild camping almost anywhere, making it one of Europe's most camping-friendly countries.

Wild Camping Rules

You can camp:

• At least 150 meters from buildings (houses, huts, cabins)

• On uncultivated land (mountains, forests, beaches)

• For 1–2 nights in the same spot

• Free of charge

You cannot camp:

• On cultivated land (fields, gardens, farmland) without permission

• In some nature reserves (check local regulations)

• Where signs specifically prohibit camping

Best practices:

• Leave no trace—take all rubbish with you

• Camp on durable ground, avoid fragile vegetation

• No fires where prohibited (check local rules)

• Camp at least 50 meters from water sources

• Be discreet and respectful

Bivouacking Near Huts

Many hikers mix bivouacking with hut stays for flexibility and cost savings. Camping near huts is generally allowed if you follow these guidelines:

• Camp at least 150 meters from the hut

• Don't use hut facilities unless you're a paying guest

• In bad weather, huts will always accept you (pay inside)

• Some popular huts have designated camping areas

Camping Equipment for Norway

If you plan to camp between huts:

• 3-season tent (must handle wind and rain)

• Warm sleeping bag (0°C to -5°C rating for summer)

• Sleeping pad (inflatable recommended)

• Camping stove and fuel (gas canisters widely available)

• Cooking pot and utensils

• Water filter or purification tablets

Final Tips for Norwegian Hut Adventures

Book early for popular routes: Besseggen, Trolltunga and major Jotunheimen huts book out 3–6 months ahead for July–August.

Join DNT: If you're staying 3+ nights in huts, membership saves money immediately.

Pack light: Huts provide meals and bedding (staffed huts), so your pack can stay under 10kg.

Start early: Most hikers leave huts by 8:00–9:00 AM to complete high terrain before afternoon weather.

Respect the mountains: Norwegian mountains are serious terrain. Weather changes fast, trails can be remote, and rescue takes time. Always carry proper gear and know your limits.

Enjoy the social atmosphere: Norwegian huts bring together hikers from across Europe and beyond. Share stories over dinner, exchange route tips, and enjoy the communal mountain experience.

Norwegian mountain huts offer one of the world's best trekking experiences—spectacular scenery, comfortable accommodation, and weeks of exploration without carrying heavy camping gear. Whether you're discovering Norway for the first time or returning to favourite peaks, the hut system opens up endless possibilities.

When you return to the valley, you'll carry more than photos of dramatic ridges and glacial lakes. You'll leave with a connection to Norway's ancient mountains and the people who walk them.

Ready to start planning your Norwegian hut adventure?

We can help you choose the best routes, book the right huts, and create a tailored itinerary that matches your fitness level and timing. From classic Jotunheimen circuits to remote Hardangervidda crossings, we handle the logistics so you can focus on hiking.

Send us your dates, and we'll create a personalised hiking plan for Norway.