The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Nyhellervatnet
4.7
(181)
1,158
hikers
4
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Nyhellervatnet are situated in a high-altitude lake region at the end of the Aurlandsdalen valley in Norway. The landscape features mountainous terrain, expansive lake views, and deep valley paths. Hikers can expect rugged environments with varied elevations, characteristic of the region's natural environment. Nyhellervatnet itself is a large lake bordering Hol and Aurland Municipalities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Nyhellervatnet
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Nesbøgalden Cliffside Trail – Nesbø Mountain Farm loop from Østerbø, a challenging 3.7 miles (5.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 54 minutes to complete, passing by historical farm sites.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Østerbø Mountain Lodge – Orraberg loop from Østerbø, a challenging 4.6 miles (7.3 km) path. This route offers varied elevations through mountainous terrain.
- Local hikers also love the View of Lake Aurdalsvatnet – Jettegryter Potholes loop from Østerbø, a challenging 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail leading through a landscape with lake views and geological features, often completed in about 1 hour 37 minutes.
- Hiking around Nyhellervatnet is defined by mountainous terrain, expansive lake views, and deep valley paths. The network offers options for those seeking challenging experiences in a high-mountain environment.
- The routes in Nyhellervatnet are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 160 reviews. More than 1000 hikers have used komoot to explore Nyhellervatnet's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 26, 2026
4.6
(20)
75
hikers
Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(4)
20
hikers
7.34km
02:31
360m
360m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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4.0
(1)
19
hikers
Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.3
(3)
8
hikers
4.65km
01:23
40m
30m
Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
Quite well passable. There is even a rope to hold onto
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Beautifully run DNT cabin with good food, friendly hosts, and a campsite. Well located as a starting point for hikes in Aurdalen.
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Here the narrow path had to be blasted out of the rock. A great section of the trail.
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Here you can see the whirlpool holes washed out by the river.
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Beautiful views of the Aurdalsvatnet.
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Many of the old houses are still there and bear witness to times gone by. Beautiful location. An information board provides information about the history.
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The Østerbø mountain farm with its wooden buildings is a nice base for activities in Aurlandsdalen. The building, which dates back to 1740, offers over a hundred beds in the main building and smaller cabins. There is also a sauna facility for overnight guests with their own tent.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Nyhellervatnet?
This guide features four carefully selected routes that are suitable for families looking to explore the beautiful area around Nyhellervatnet. While the terrain can be challenging, these specific trails offer memorable experiences for those prepared for a mountain environment.
What kind of terrain can we expect on these family hikes?
The trails around Nyhellervatnet are characterized by mountainous terrain with varied elevations. You'll traverse rugged paths, offering a true experience of the natural environment. While these routes are selected for families, they are rated as 'difficult' due to the nature of the landscape, so sturdy shoes and good fitness are recommended.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, all the family-friendly routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Nesbøgalden Cliffside Trail – Nesbø Mountain Farm loop from Østerbø offers a scenic round trip, and the View of Lake Aurdalsvatnet – Jettegryter Potholes loop from Østerbø is another great option for a circular walk.
What are some natural features or landmarks we might see on these trails?
The region is renowned for its dramatic landscapes. On your hikes, you can expect stunning lake views, deep valley paths, and the possibility of seeing roaring waterfalls. The trails also pass by historical sites such as the Nesbø Mountain Farm, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Aurlandsdalen valley.
What is the shortest family-friendly hike in this guide?
The shortest route featured is the Østerbø Mountain Lodge – View of Vassbygdvatnet loop from Østerbø, which is approximately 4.65 kilometers long and typically takes around 1 hour and 23 minutes to complete. It offers beautiful views with the least elevation gain among the listed trails.
Are there any trails with views of lakes or water bodies?
Absolutely! Many trails in the area provide expansive lake views. The View of Lake Aurdalsvatnet – Jettegryter Potholes loop from Østerbø, as its name suggests, offers direct views of Lake Aurdalsvatnet. You'll also find views of Vassbygdvatnet on other routes.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails around Nyhellervatnet?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 165 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the unique experience of hiking in the Aurlandsdalen valley.
What is the best time of year to visit Nyhellervatnet for family hiking?
The best time for family hiking around Nyhellervatnet is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. During this period, the trails are generally free of snow, and the weather is more favorable for exploring the mountainous terrain and enjoying the natural beauty.
Are there any historical sites or old farms to see along the routes?
Yes, the Aurlandsdalen valley is rich in history. For instance, the Nesbøgalden Cliffside Trail – Nesbø Mountain Farm loop from Østerbø will take you past the historic Nesbø Mountain Farm, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past and cultural heritage.
What is the longest family-friendly hike in this guide?
The longest route in this selection is the Østerbø Mountain Lodge – Orraberg loop from Østerbø, covering approximately 7.34 kilometers. This trail also features the most significant elevation gain, making it a more strenuous option for families seeking a longer adventure.
Most popular routes around Nyhellervatnet
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