Northern Norway is a popular holiday destination among Finns, which is no surprise once you cross the border for the first time. The landscapes change dramatically right after the border, offering an endless array of stunning views.
Naturally, as mountains start to appear, so do waterfalls. Waterfalls are very popular tourist attractions, and people enjoy admiring them for extended periods. Northern Norway, with its mountains, is full of magnificent waterfalls, though not all are easily accessible. In this post, we present three spectacular and easily reachable waterfalls that do not require a long or challenging hike.
1. Gorsabrua, Birtavarre
Among the waterfalls in Northern Norway, Gorsabrua must be mentioned first. Also known as the Gorsa Bridge, it spans Northern Europeโs deepest canyon at 153 meters and is undoubtedly one of Northern Norway’s most impressive waterfalls. The roar of water into the narrow and rugged canyon is an unforgettable experience.
Gorsabrua is located near the popular Skibotn area and is easily accessible with a small detour if heading towards the Lofoten Islands from Kilpisjรคrvi, Finland.
Location and Route:
Location: The parking lot for Gorsabrua is about 13 km beyond the village of Birtavarre, approximately 50 km from Skibotn. The road from Birtavarre can be uneven, and sheep are often on the road, so drive carefully.
Trail: From the parking lot, it is only 1.8 km to the Gorsa Bridge. The path is easy and clear, mostly flat, and slightly descending towards the end.
Highlights: The bridge itself is an experience. Those afraid of heights might feel a bit shaky, as the bridge is 153 meters above the canyon, offering breathtaking views. For the adventurous, bungee jumping is available from the bridge.
For a more detailed description of Gorsabrua, click here
2. Rovijoki Waterfall, Skibotn
Rovijoki Waterfall, also known as the Bridal Veil of Rovijoki, is an extremely convenient stop when driving from Kilpisjรคrvi (Finland) into Norway. The waterfall is located 28 km from Kilpisjรคrvi towards Skibotn, right by the E8 road.
The waterfall is stunning, resembling a bridal veil, narrow at the top and widening at the bottom, with a total height of 28 meters.
Location and Route:
Location: Rovijoki Waterfall is located 28 km from Kilpisjรคrvi towards Skibotn, right by the E8 road with a spacious parking lot.
Trail: From the parking lot, itโs only a few hundred meters to the waterfall. Follow the riverbank from the parking lot, and you will find the path leading down. The route along the river/waterfall edge is somewhat challenging and requires a bit of climbing, but after the initial path, there is an easier route that circles down, which is practically no longer.
Highlights: The waterfall is stunning and the water crystal clear. Despite being on a popular route for Finns, itโs usually not crowded. During our visits, weโve only encountered a few other visitors.
For more details on Rovijoki Waterfall, click here
3. Valnesfossen, Bodรธ
Valnesfossen is located further south, near the city of Bodรธ, and is also easily accessible by car and a short hike. A visit to Valnesfossen is highly recommended when exploring the Bodรธ area or watching the worldโs strongest tidal current at Saltstraumen.
Location and Route:
Location: About 40 km from Bodรธ and 15 km south of the popular Saltstraumen tidal current, along the Fv17 road.
Trail: You can explore Valnesfossen from both above and below, with the starting points for each being different. The full grandeur is best seen from below, which is a 1,5 km hike from the parking lot. The path is clear and easy, passing through a cow pasture. Thereโs a warning sign about the cows, and the area is fenced, but you can freely enter. We didnโt see any cows, but there was plenty of evidence of their presence on the ground.
Highlights: The tallest waterfall in the Bodรธ area, with a free fall height of about 60 meters. Thereโs also a campfire site and a shelter along the way, separated from the pasture by a fence.
Summary
Northern Norway offers waterfalls of all kinds, from larger ones to smaller hidden gems. Gorsabrua, Rovijoki Waterfall, and Valnesfossen are spectacular, easily accessible, and perfect for day trips or short stops during a drive. These waterfalls allow you to enjoy peaceful nature and breathtaking landscapes.
