Experience Gaustatoppen – One of Norway's Most Beautiful Mountains
Gaustatoppen, rising 1,883 meters above sea level, is one of Norway's most iconic mountain peaks. It offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the entire country—on a clear day, you can see over 60 mountain peaks in all directions. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner seeking a more comfortable journey to the summit, Gaustatoppen has something for everyone.
The Hike to the Summit – For All Levels: Gaustatoppen is accessible to everyone, whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out. The most popular route begins at Gaustablikk, offering a moderately challenging hike that takes about 3–4 hours. For those seeking a more demanding adventure, there are longer and steeper trails through untouched mountain terrain.
If you prefer an easier way to reach the summit, Gaustabanen provides a convenient alternative. This spectacular funicular railway transports you from the mountain station at 1,200 meters up to 1,850 meters above sea level. The journey through the mountain is an experience in itself, and at the top, you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views from the observation point.
Fantastic Activities – All Year Round: Gaustatoppen is a popular destination both in summer and winter. In summer, you can hike or cycle around the Gausta area, which offers several marked trails through stunning landscapes and breathtaking panoramic views.
In winter, Gaustatoppen transforms into a winter paradise with numerous skiing and cross-country trails. Gaustabanen provides access to a freeride route between the upper and lower stations, offering an exciting 2,500-meter descent. The area around the mountain features an extensive network of groomed cross-country ski trails, and alpine enthusiasts will find excellent conditions suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers.
Gaustatoppen – More Than Just a Hike: Standing at the top of Gaustatoppen provides a unique feeling of being on top of the world. But your experience doesn't have to end there! Visit Gaustatoppen's observation deck for an impressive panoramic view or take a break in the cozy café at the summit to enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee after your rewarding hike.
The area surrounding Gaustatoppen offers an authentic mountain experience, featuring beautiful lakes and majestic peaks. It’s an ideal starting point for short day trips as well as longer stays, perfect for families, groups of friends, and those seeking the tranquility of nature.
To the top in 15 minutes
Hiking to Gaustatoppen
There are several choices of hiking trails to choose from for those who would like a hike.
The phenomenon of atmospheric icing or cloud icing occurs when supercooled water droplets collide with an object, and the ice formation is influenced by the water content and the airspeed.
When the small droplets in clouds attach themselves to masts and antennas, they can gradually crystallize into significant amounts of ice, known as ice loading. You can often observe this phenomenon on the cairn at the summit.
STARRY SKY
At Gaustatoppen, you're closer to the stars than anywhere else in Telemark. At this altitude, there is minimal light pollution, and as the sun sets after another day, an impressive sprinkle of stars lights up the pitch-black canvas of the night sky. Whether you already know the names of many constellations or not, Gaustatoppen is a perfect place to become more familiar with the Milky Way. Just bring binoculars and a star chart, and prepare to be fascinated.
VIEW
From Gaustatoppen, you have a 360-degree view over one-sixth of mainland Norway. Measured by area, you won't find a comparable expansive view anywhere else in the country. On a clear day, you can simultaneously enjoy views of Jotunheimen to the north, Nordmarka in Oslo to the east, Hardangervidda to the west, and, if you're particularly lucky, even the beacon at Færder Lighthouse at the outer edge of the Oslo Fjord.
SHADOW
At 1,883 meters above sea level, Gaustatoppen is far from being among Norway's tallest mountains. Nevertheless, it stands prominently, majestically rising more than 300 meters above the surrounding terrain in Tinn, Telemark. If you're lucky enough to be here at sunrise or sunset, make sure you turn around and look behind you. Just as the sun meets the horizon, the mountain casts a gigantic pyramid-shaped shadow over the landscape on the opposite side.
WAVE ROCK
1.5 billion years ago, this area was covered by sand and clay sediments. Gaustatoppen began forming approximately 1.2 billion years ago, when molten rock from deep within the Earth started pushing layers of quartzite upward. The wave patterns you see in the rock slabs at the summit today are fossilized ripples in the sand from an ancient seabed.
PERMAFROST
Permafrost is a layer of soil, rock, or sediment that remains frozen throughout the entire year. The top 200 meters of Gaustatoppen consist of fractured rock and massive boulders, held firmly in place by permafrost. During the construction of Gaustabanen, workers encountered ice several thousand years old at approximately 1,600 meters elevation. This presented significant challenges during the completion of the railway.
PLACES TO EAT
The King's Lounge – Located within the Gaustabanen facility, the Kongelounge serves lunch dishes and hosts pre-booked dinner events. Check the Kongelounge’s opening hours and menu here.
Provianten – Provianten is Gaustabanen’s kiosk, located right by the exit to Tuddalstippen from the upper station. It offers a wide selection of snacks, simple lunch dishes, and cakes. Provianten is open during Gaustabanen’s operating hours.
Gaustatoppen Tourist Cabin – Just a few steps above Tuddalstippen, you'll find the Gaustatoppen Tourist Cabin, which serves simple lunch dishes and waffles during its opening hours. The cabin, operated by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), also offers accommodation during the season. Read more here.
ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
There’s always something happening at Gaustatoppen throughout the year. You can, for example, experience a stunning sunrise paired with a delicious breakfast buffet, or take part in an exquisite culinary experience featuring local chef talents.
A YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION
Gaustabanen is open all year, offering experiences and events tailored to every season.
Norway’s Widest View
From the summit of Gaustatoppen, you can, on a clear day, see one-sixth of Norway – and even all the way to Sweden
A Hidden Military Secret
Originally built as a military facility, Gaustabanen played a key role in NATO communications during the Cold War
Part of the Gausta Destination
Gausta is a year-round mountain destination offering ski slopes, hotels, cabins, and a wide range of activities for families and explorers alike. The area also features high-quality restaurants and experiences for every taste.
Gateway to Hardangervidda
At the foot of Gaustatoppen begins Hardangervidda, Norway's largest National Park, known for it's pristine nature and rich wildlife
Stay at the Summit
Just above the upper station, you'll find the Gaustatoppen Tourist Cabin. Book accomodation and refreshments through DNT and wake up above the clouds
15 Minutes by Funicular
In just 15 minutes, the funicular takes you insidethe mountain to unforgettable summit adventures. Here, you'll also find a Café and i supply stand filled with tempting treats for all vsitors
