Walk through the beautiful valley of Gudbrandsdalen
Embark on an adventure through Lillehammer and Gudbrandsdalen.

See all the pilgrim paths in Norway in the map of our planner.
The journey from Lillehammer to Otta spans just over 100 kilometers, passing through a historically rich region along ancient roads.
You start your walk in the city of Lillehammer, just two hours by train from the capital, Oslo. In the center of Lillehammer, the world-famous pedestrian street, lined with charming wooden houses, is well worth a visit.
Enchanting Views
As you ascend through Gudbrandsdalen, you follow in the footsteps of folktale collectors Asbjørnsen and Moe, who traveled the region 200 years ago, gathering stories. The landscape still exudes a fairytale-like atmosphere, surrounded by farms, lakes, and majestic mountains.
The hike is varied but mostly follows well-maintained trails, both at higher and lower elevations. In several places, you'll enjoy panoramic views over the valley.
Traditional Cuisine
Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample local delicacies. The region’s chefs specialize in traditional foods such as cured ham, lamb, moose, reindeer, and fish from the mountain lakes.
Summers in this part of Gudbrandsdalen are often warm and sunny, meaning there’s a good chance the sun will accompany you all the way to Otta.
Hike from Lillehammer to Otta on Gudbrandsdalsleden
- Booking: You don’t need to register anywhere to go on this hike, but booking accommodations in advance is recommended.
- Suitable for: Hikers of all ages with some experience. The trail is 115 km long with some steep sections.
- Duration: About 6 days. For a shorter hike, you can walk Ringebu – Vinstra (30 km) or Ringebu – Otta (60 km).
- Starting point: Lillehammer
- Endpoint: Otta
- Public transportation
Train: Trondheim S – Lillehammer (~4h 30 min), Oslo S – Lillehammer (~2h).
Bus: The transport companies Nor-Way, Vy, and Innlandstrafikk operate routes to Lillehammer from different parts of the country. - Parking:
At Lillehammer Station, you can park long-term on the Strandtorget side for a fee.
In Vinstra, there is free long-term parking for train travelers on the opposite side of the station building. See banenor.no for more information. - Best time to visit: June – August
- Questions? Contact Dale-Gudbrand Pilgrim Center.
See other recommended trips or start planning your walk in our planner.
Accommodation in the area
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Birkebeineren Hotel & Apartments
Gudbrandsdalsleden -
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Wood hotel - Frich's hotel and eatery Brumunddal
Gudbrandsdalsleden -
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Glomstad Guesthouse
Gudbrandsdalsleden -
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Gildesvollen Pilgrim Hostel
Gudbrandsdalsleden -
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Sygard Grytting - medieval hostel
Gudbrandsdalsleden -
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Dale-Gudbrand Gard
Gudbrandsdalsleden
Stages of the Hike
It is recommended to use public transportation to reach the starting point of the hike.
Here you can order Luggage transfer.

Lillehammer – Øyer (25 km)
The trail begins through Lillehammer before continuing to the historic estate Storhove. From there, you head towards Fåberg and Hafjell, where the path climbs steeply, but also offers well-maintained forest trails. The last few kilometers reward you with stunning views of Hunderfossen.

Øyer – Tretten (15 km)
The stage begins with a steep ascent, followed by a scenic route high up along the valley slope. You'll walk through green pastures, narrow trails, and enchanting forests before reaching Kjørkjehaugen, where you can see the remains of a medieval church.

Tretten – Ringebu (27 km)
This is a longer stage that first descends steeply to the valley floor, passing through forests before reaching the Rolla Nature Reserve and Rolla Bridge. The trail then follows the historic Kongeveien (King’s Road) towards Trondheim. Near Fåvang, you’ll cross the Tromsa Bridge.
Towards the end of the stage, Ringebu Stave Church awaits. You can choose to stop here for the night or continue to the center of the small town Ringebu.

Ringebu – Hundorp (16 km)
On this stage, you can visit Dale-Gudbrand Farm and the regional pilgrim center. The hike begins northward along the Panorama Road, offering stunning views of the valley and Ringebu.

Photo: Eskil Roll
Hundorp – Harpefoss (7 km)
A short and peaceful stage, passing Sør-Fron Church and continuing through the Vicarage where author Ludvig Holberg once lived. The stage ends at the historic Sygard Grytting farm, which has served as a pilgrim accommodation since the 14th century.

Harpefoss – Kvam (7 km)
This stage takes you over the highest point of the hike, Skar (600 meters above sea level). The first kilometers involve a steep ascent, but the reward at the top is a breathtaking view towards the Jotunheimen mountains. The trail continues high above the town of Vinstra, before the valley opens up as you approach Kvam.

Kvam - Otta (24 km)
A varied stage with both ascents and descents, passing through forests, small settlements, and grazing lands. Along the way, you’ll find several scenic viewpoints. Midway through the stage, you’ll pass the historic Varphaugen.
The descent towards Otta crosses small rivers and streams, before following the main road towards the center of the small town Otta, where there is a train station.
Experiences Near the Trail

Olympic Fun in Lillehammer
See the ski jumping Arena at Lysgårdsbakkene, and visit the Norwegian Olympic Museum at Maihaugen.

Ringebu Stave Church
At the end of the stage between Tretten and Ringebu, you’ll reach the Ringebu Stave Church, which dates back to 1220 and is the only preserved stave church along the pilgrim trail between Oslo and Trondheim.

Art along the trail
Near the trail, you’ll find several artworks that are part of the Tankeplass (Thinking Spots) project. These spots invite you to reflect while enjoying beautiful views.
You’ll encounter art in Lillehammer, Øyer, and Ringebu. Be sure to keep your eyes open!

The famous play Peer Gynt
The character Peer Gynt from Henrik Ibsen's famous play is believed to be based on Peder Olsen Hågå from Vinstra. As a result, you’ll find the Peer Gynt name featured in many ways throughout the area.
The Peer Gynt play is performed every summer at Gålå, not far from Vinstra, offering a unique opportunity to experience this iconic Norwegian story in its local setting.
Great Flavors Along the Way

Glomstad Guesthouse
Just past Tretten, you’ll find Glomstad Guesthouse, where you can enjoy homemade Norwegian food while taking in a fantastic panoramic view of Gudbrandsdalen.

Annis Spisested
A gourmet restaurant in Ringebu offering dishes made with local ingredients and delicious desserts. Located in Ringebu, which is known as Norway's smallest town.

Dale-Gudbrands Gård
Dale-Gudbrand Farm in Hundorp offers high-quality food and drinks. The farm was an ancient chieftain's seat during the Viking Age and provides a unique dining experience in a charming setting.

Sygard Grytting
Located in Sør-Fron (south Fron), the medieval farm Sygard Grytting produces many of its own ingredients. The farm raises lamb on mountain pastures throughout the summer. Here, you can also enjoy local potatoes, carrots, salad, and a variety of fruits.
Good to Know
Most accommodation places offer breakfast and dinner. However, local grocery stores are the main source of food while you’re hiking.