Gjende is a region in Norway's Jotunheimen National Park, characterized by its dramatic mountainous scenery and glacial features. The area is defined by the 18-kilometer-long, emerald-green Lake Gjende, whose distinctive color results from glacial rock flour. Towering peaks, U-shaped valleys, and rocky outcrops shape the landscape, providing a diverse environment for several outdoor sports like hiking and jogging. The Sjoa River also flows from Gjende, adding to the region's natural composition.
Gjende offers a range of outdoor activities, with approximately 8 routes available across several sports like hiking and jogging. The region is particularly known for its hiking trails, from challenging mountain traverses like the Besseggen Ridge to more accessible routes around DNT Gjendesheim. For those seeking less strenuous options, easy hikes are available, such as the Memurudalen Valley loop. The Gjendebåten ferry service provides access to various starting points, allowing for diverse route planning. More than 35,000 visitors have shared their experiences in Gjende, resulting in an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars for the available routes. To explore specific options, consult guides such as Hiking around Gjende, Family-friendly hikes around Gjende, and Running Trails around Gjende.
49
Routes
4.5
(942)
Average rating
7161
People visited

4.9
(305)
2,754
hikers
14.5km
07:16
1,110m
1,110m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

4.9
(86)
1,158
hikers
28.0km
14:05
2,190m
2,190m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

5.0
(2)
93
hikers
21.3km
07:41
1,220m
1,220m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.0
(2)
20
hikers
14.3km
04:57
580m
580m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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163
runners
14.3km
03:20
1,110m
1,110m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

51
runners
12.6km
02:13
480m
480m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

4.0
(2)
16
runners
11.9km
01:49
460m
470m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

19
runners
14.1km
02:38
800m
800m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Gjende, located in Jotunheimen National Park, offers various outdoor activities. The region is primarily known for hiking and jogging. There are 8 routes available for these activities.
The Besseggen Ridge hike is one of Norway's most popular mountain excursions, known for its demanding full-day trek. Other notable trails include the challenging Knutshøe Trail and routes around DNT Gjendesheim. For more information, consult the guide Hiking around Gjende.
Yes, Gjende offers less strenuous options for hikers. Examples include the Memurudalen Valley loop and routes near the Sjoa River, which provide gentle walks with scenic views. Find more options in the guide Easy hikes around Gjende.
The Besseggen Ridge hike is considered a demanding full-day trek. It is one of Norway's most popular mountain excursions, requiring good physical condition. Hikers experience significant elevation changes and varied terrain.
Gjende provides routes suitable for families. These trails typically offer easier terrain and shorter distances, allowing for an enjoyable experience for all ages. Refer to the guide Family-friendly hikes around Gjende for specific recommendations.
The Gjendebåten ferry service operates on Lake Gjende, connecting Gjendesheim, Memurubu, and Gjendebu. This service allows hikers to plan various routes, such as hiking one way and returning by boat, or accessing different starting points for their adventures. The official website for the boat service is gjende.no.
Gjende is known for its 11-mile (18-kilometer) long emerald-green lake, which gets its distinctive color from glacial rock flour. The region features towering peaks, often exceeding 6,500 feet (2,000 meters), U-shaped valleys, and rocky outcrops. The Sjoa River also flows from Gjende.
Yes, Gjende has staffed mountain lodges maintained by the Norwegian Mountain Touring Association (DNT). These include Gjendesheim, Memurubu, and Gjendebu, which serve as essential rest stops and starting points for trips into Jotunheimen National Park.
There are 8 routes available in Gjende on komoot. These routes are primarily for hiking and jogging, with 7 routes for hiking and 1 for jogging. More than 35,000 visitors have shared their experiences.
Routes in Gjende have an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on komoot. This rating is based on more than 5,000 reviews from visitors who have completed the routes.
Gjende offers options for jogging enthusiasts. Information on suitable routes can be found in the guide Running Trails around Gjende. There is 1 dedicated jogging route available on komoot.
For inquiries regarding the Gjendebåten ferry service, contact can be made via their official website, gjende.no. For urgent matters, a phone number is available at +47 61 23 92 93, or email at harald@gjende.no.
Information regarding parking, shuttle bus services, and cafes in the Gjende area is available through Visit Gjende. Their website is visitgjende.no. For general inquiries, email post@visitgjende.no or call +47 418 62 785.

