EN EN Gaustatoppen 1883 masl
Gaustatoppen – with views across one-sixth of Norway
Rising 1,883 metres above sea level, Gaustatoppen stands as one of Norway’s most iconic mountains. On clear days, you can enjoy views across large parts of Southern Norway. Whether you hike to the summit or take the unique Gaustabanen – the mountain railway running inside the mountain all the way to the top – an experience awaits where nature, history, and spectacular surroundings come together.
A popular mountain peak among tourists, skiers, and hikers
Gaustatoppen, rising 1,883 metres above sea level, is a popular mountain among tourists and hikers, with over 100,000 visitors each year.
Many consider this to be one of Norway’s most beautiful viewpoints – perhaps not surprising, as as much as one-sixth of the country can be seen on clear days. In winter, Gaustatoppen is a sought-after area for off-piste skiing. This activity always involves risk, and all travel outside marked trails is at your own responsibility. We recommend only descending from the summit with a certified guide who knows the area and is up to date on weather and avalanche conditions.
During summer, tens of thousands hike to the summit each year. Buses run from Gaustablikk to Stavsro, the starting point for the hike, and it takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach the top. The terrain is rocky, so proper footwear is recommended. The reward is a view accessible to most.
If hiking is not an option, you can take the Gaustabanen to the summit. The idea for the Gaustabanen was first introduced in 1953, with the vision of creating a tourist attraction so unique and remarkable that more people could experience Gaustatoppen. It was an ambitious project.
Gaustabanen
Gaustabanen – a spectacular and dramatic funicular railway running inside Gaustatoppen – opened to the public in 2010 after a four-year trial period. To finance the project, the Norwegian Armed Forces were invited to participate. Over time, the military presence grew while tourism diminished. When the railway was completed in 1959, tourism had disappeared entirely, and what remained was a sealed NATO facility, later also used for weather forecasting and broadcasting.
Under ideal conditions, you can enjoy views across an area of 60,000 km² – nearly one-sixth of mainland Norway. For comparison, Denmark covers approximately 43,000 km².
Each year, more than 100,000 people visit Gaustatoppen. With the opening of the Gaustabanen, visitors gained new flexibility – you can hike one way and take the railway the other, or take the railway both ways. This has led to a significant increase in visitor numbers.
Did you know?
The Gaustabanen was originally built as part of a sealed NATO facility during the Cold War. Today, you can explore this unique history through guided tours of the former military installation – or take part in special experiences such as “Top Secret Dining.”
