Vatnane Historical Cattle Trail

The trail officially begins at the gravel pit in Tenne, Arnafjord. This is also the primary location for parking your vehicle before starting your hike.

The initial section of the trail is quite steep, leading through a coniferous forest on a well-maintained track. As you ascend, the landscape transitions to an open birch forest. Higher up, past the treeline, you'll encounter mountain terrain, including the area around the Vatnavatni lakes. Be prepared for varied surfaces, including some rocky sections and potentially a shallow river crossing where you might need to remove your shoes.

The trail offers several scenic highlights. You'll enjoy amazing views of Arnafjord throughout the hike. Key features include the View of the Fjord from the Mossy Forest, the impressive View of Englekorfossen waterfall near the Fossesete mountain summer farm, and the serene View of the mountain lake in Stølsheimen Landscape Protection Area at Vatnavatni.

While the trail is clearly marked, its initial stages are rather steep, and it involves a significant elevation gain. It's considered a moderate hike, taking 4 to 6 hours to complete. Beginners with good physical condition and some hiking experience might manage, but those new to hiking may find it challenging. Proper preparation and gear are essential.

Given its location and the historical context of cattle moving to summer pastures, the trail is best enjoyed during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn. During this period, the snow has usually melted, and the weather conditions are more favorable for hiking in the mountains.

No, there are generally no entrance fees or specific hiking permits required to access the Vatnane Historical Cattle Trail or to hike within the Stølsheimen Landscape Protection Area. However, if you plan to fish in Vatnavatni, you will need to obtain a proper fishing permit.

Dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, as the trail passes through the Stølsheimen Landscape Protection Area and historically served as a cattle trail, it is crucial to keep dogs on a leash at all times, especially during grazing season, to protect wildlife and livestock.

Yes, at the mountain summer farm Vatnane, there are several private huts and cabins. Additionally, the Bergen Turlag hiking association operates a tourist lodge there, which is open to the public for overnight stays. Note that this lodge is not provisioned, so you should bring your own food and supplies.

Yes, from the Vatnane mountain summer farm, you can access a wider network of marked hiking routes within the Stølsheimen area, allowing for longer excursions or alternative return paths if desired.

The Vatnane Historical Cattle Trail is significant because it traces the traditional path that cattle once took to their summer mountain pastures. This provides a unique insight into traditional Norwegian farming practices and the cultural landscape of the region, where livestock were moved to higher altitudes for summer grazing.

One unique feature is the potential need to cross a shallow, outflowing river near the Vatnavatni lakes. Depending on water levels, you might need to remove your shoes to wade across. This adds a small adventurous element to the hike.