Besseggen Ridge, WW

The Besseggen Ridge is a fantastical trek across a granite backbone that was formed over the millennia by dramatic glacial activity. This description is for the ridgeline walk, one way, from Gjendesheim to Memurubu. Along the way, you will pass deep lakes, expansive glaciers, and stunning vistas of Norwegian peaks that are capped in snow year-round. There are herds of reindeer that live in Jotunheiman and are often visible from the ridgeline. You are also likely to see mountain goats, and if you're lucky, maybe an arctic fox!


Warning
Make every effort to begin this hike in the morning, as root finding is increasingly difficult hiking from E to W and you will need adequate daylight to hunt for cairns.History
The Jotunheiman National Park is full of prehistoric sites dating to 3000BCE. There is evidence of early dairy farms and many hunting spears have been found near the glaciers.

Hike
You can hike either West-bound or East-bound, and unless you plan on hiking it both ways in one day, you will need to take a ferry to/from the trailhead. The trekking hut at Gjendesheim is both the starting point for the West-bound trail and the launching point for the ferry. Ideally, you can arrive into Gjendesheim in the morning and begin your trek from here. Upon reaching Memurubu, take the ferry back to Gjendesheim. Alternatively, spend the night at the hikers lodge in Memurubu. It is very remote and supplies are brought in by ferry, thus increasing the costs of meals. Definitely worth it though!

Water Sources
The glacier runoff along the trail tastes amazing. Be sure to purify though. There are many reindeer who would love to show you a thing or two about giardia!

Camping
Backcountry camping in Jotunheiman National Park is allowed, but there are specific rules governing how far from a lake shore you must be. See http://jotunheimen.com/en for more info.

2016-04-22 arizona_water