The Autumn is
magical in the mountains
Here are 10 things to do in Hemsedal this autumn.
1. Take your coffee to the top
Coffee simply tastes better with a view.
Autumn is a beautiful time for hiking in Hemsedal. Hike to Harahødn for views across Lake Vavatn and towards Jotunheimen, or head for Røggjin and enjoy a 360-degree panorama from the summit.
Looking for more options? You’ll find the Topp20 hikes and plenty of other routes in the Hemsedal app.
Mountain weather can change quickly in autumn, so check the forecast, bring extra layers and choose a hike that suits both the conditions and your experience.
→ Find hikes in Hemsedal
2. Chase the autumn colours
For a few weeks every year, Hemsedal turns up the colour.
The birch forests change from green to gold while the mountainsides fill with shades of yellow, orange and red. And you don't have to hike the highest peaks to experience it.
Follow the historic Finnstigen trail through Gravsetåsen, explore part of Kongevegen or choose a shorter mountain walk to suit the weather and your energy level.
Tip: Autumn colours arrive at different times in the valley and higher in the mountains, so explore different elevations.
3. See what's happening
Hemsedal doesn't go into hibernation when summer ends.
September and October bring everything from sports and culture to food experiences, markets and events around the valley.
The programme changes from week to week, so check our What's On calendar when planning your stay.
→ See what's on in Hemsedal
4. Taste Hemsedal
A good autumn day deserves a good ending.
After a day in the mountains, settle in for dinner and discover the flavours of Hemsedal – from local ingredients and traditional dishes to pizza, sharing plates and dinners worth lingering over.
You can also visit local producers and shops and take a little taste of Hemsedal home with you.
5. Sleep under five billion stars
Crisp autumn air, a sky full of stars and that first cup of coffee outside your tent. Spending a night outdoors can be one of autumn's best mountain experiences.
But nights in the mountains can get cold. Check the weather forecast carefully, bring equipment suitable for the expected temperatures and choose your campsite according to the weather, wind and your own experience.
And remember to leave no trace. Respect the right to roam, take care of nature and bring everything back with you.
Read our article "5 billion stars accomodation" for tips and inspiration.
6. Watch Hemsedal wake up
One advantage of autumn for those who aren't keen on getting up in the middle of the night? The sun rises later.
Choose a viewpoint or hike that suits your ability, pack a headtorch, something warm to drink and extra layers – and meet the new day outside.
You don't need to stand at 1,900 metres to experience a pretty spectacular sunrise in the mountains.
→ Find a hike that suits you - Hiking in Hemsedal.
7. Reach new heights on Via Ferrata
Ready for a little more adrenaline?
Via Ferrata means “iron path” in Italian, and in Hemsedal you can follow the secured climbing route up the mountainside with a guide. The adventure takes around 3–4 hours and finishes at Vesle Røggjin, with views across the autumn landscape.
It's a great challenge for friends, families with older children – or anyone looking to step a little outside their comfort zone.
→ Discover Via Ferrata in Hemsedal - bookhemsedal.com
8. Walk or bike through history
On Kongeveien (King's Road), autumn colours come with a dose of Hemsedal history.
The historic route between eastern and western Norway runs through beautiful mountain landscapes and can be explored on foot or by bike. Information boards along the way tell the story of the road and the people who travelled it.
Explore the whole route or just a section. Here, the journey really is the point.
→ Explore Kongeveien
9. Keep the biking season going
The bike doesn't have to go into storage just because summer is over.
Hemsedal offers everything from flow trails to gravel roads and natural trails. When the lifts are running, you can spend the day riding laps in Hemsedal Rides, while gravel roads and other bike routes provide even more ways to explore throughout autumn.
Always check current opening hours and trail conditions before setting out – autumn conditions can change quickly.
The cycle path between Hemsedal and Ål, Fanitullvegen, is just as nice in the autumn as in the summer, and a favorite among cycling enthusiasts in the valley. The road stretches 30 km over the high mountains down to Ål over some of the village's most beautiful landscapes. Put on your bicycle helmet and roll off. Read more about cycling in Hemsedal.
We have written two articles about cycling enthusiasts in Hemsedal, read "Born to bike" and "Biking for the whole family"
10. Explore Hemsedal on four legs – or many paws
Some mountain adventures come with fur.
Join a horse-riding trip through the autumn landscape, meet the huskies or experience life on a mountain farm. At Dalo Fjellgård you can meet the farm animals and, among other experiences, join an alpaca walk.
It's just as much fun for families as it is for adults who think a day in the mountains is even better with some four-legged company.
Welcome to an autumn where the mountains give you memories to last a lifetime!
When is the best time to see the autumn colours in Hemsedal?
The autumn colours usually begin to appear in September and develop as the season progresses. Exactly when the colours are at their best varies from year to year depending on temperature, elevation and weather conditions.
What can you do in Hemsedal in autumn?
Autumn activities in Hemsedal include hiking, biking, Via Ferrata, horse riding, food experiences and events. Activities and opening hours vary throughout the season, so check current information before your visit.
What should I bring for an autumn hike in Hemsedal?
Mountain weather can change quickly in autumn. Bring warm and windproof clothing, food and water, a map or the Hemsedal app, and any additional equipment required for your chosen hike. Check the weather forecast and conditions before setting out.
Can I bring my dog hiking in Hemsedal?
Yes, but remember that Hemsedal has an extended leash requirement until 31 October. Keep your dog under control and show consideration for grazing animals, wildlife and other people enjoying the mountains.
