The best walks and hikes in Røykeneselva Naturreservat
4.6
(62)
427
hikers
19
hikes
Hiking in Røykeneselva Naturreservat offers diverse trails within a natural park in Troms, Northern Norway. The region is characterized by dramatic natural features, including gorges, a powerful waterfall at Hengen, and the Olderelva river which forms a "veil of water" during flood season. Trails wind through varied terrain, from accessible paths in pine forests to steeper climbs with significant elevation gain. Hikers can experience a mix of landscapes, including viewpoints overlooking Skibotn and the expansive Lyngenfjord.
Best hiking trails in Røykeneselva Naturreservat
- The most popular hiking route is Hengen Waterfall loop from Guosgattaholmen - Guoskat - Kuoskatansaari, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 34 minutes to complete. This easy route features the Hengen Waterfall and offers accessible paths.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hengen Waterfall – Várdovárri loop from Guosgattaholmen - Guoskat - Kuoskatansaari, a moderate 6.4 miles (10.3 km) path. This route includes significant elevation gain and provides views towards Várdovárri.
- Local hikers also love the Hengen Waterfall loop from Petterøya - Pietarinsaari, a 1.9 miles (3.1 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 3 minutes.
- Hiking in Røykeneselva Naturreservat is defined by scenic natural park landscapes, including waterfalls, gorges, and varied elevation. The network offers options for easy and moderate ability levels.
- The routes in Røykeneselva Naturreservat are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Røykeneselva Naturreservat's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.27km
01:06
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
37
hikers
10.3km
03:25
490m
490m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.5
(2)
28
hikers
3.09km
01:03
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
6.45km
02:23
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(3)
12
hikers
5.03km
01:34
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The bridge up here has crashed, so this around trip route is not possible at the moment, without crossing the river in semi deep water + slippery stones. Don't go if you are not experienced with any of that.
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The Skibotnutløpet Nature Reserve protects the Skibotnelva river delta at the inner end of the Lyngenfjord and is an important wetland for numerous species of waders and waterbirds. The surrounding landscape is characterised by vast areas of mudflats and gravel, Arctic vegetation and the steep mountains of Lyngen.
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Beautiful route, with some climbing. Wear good hiking boots with a good tread and possibly hiking poles. Take some food and drink to enjoy the waterfall a bit longer at the top.
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Beautiful area for a hike along the river.
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View of the Hengen waterfall with benches to rest and blueberries to collect
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The steep ascent of Skibotn past the Hengenfoss is worthwhile, from the Sledo you have a very nice view of Skibotn and the Lyngenfjord.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Røykeneselva Naturreservat?
Røykeneselva Naturreservat offers a good selection of hiking trails, with over 15 routes to explore. These trails cater to various fitness levels, ranging from easy walks to more moderate hikes.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Røykeneselva Naturreservat has several easy trails perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Hengen Waterfall loop from Petterøya - Pietarinsaari is an easy 3.1 km route that can be completed in just over an hour, offering a pleasant experience through varied terrain.
Can I find trails with waterfalls in Røykeneselva Naturreservat?
Absolutely. Waterfalls are a prominent feature in the reserve. Many routes incorporate the scenic Hengen Waterfall. A popular option is the Hengen Waterfall loop from Guosgattaholmen - Guoskat - Kuoskatansaari, an easy 6.3 km trail that directly features the waterfall.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the reserve?
Yes, many of the trails in Røykeneselva Naturreservat are designed as loops, providing convenient circular walks. Examples include the various 'Hengen Waterfall loop' routes, such as the Hengen Waterfall loop from Guosgattaholmen - Guoskat - Kuoskatansaari, which is an easy 5.0 km circular path.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on the trails?
The reserve features varied terrain, from accessible paths to routes with significant elevation gain. While there are easy trails with gentle inclines, moderate routes like the Hengen Waterfall – Várdovárri loop from Guosgattaholmen - Guoskat - Kuoskatansaari involve over 480 meters of ascent, offering more challenging sections and rewarding views.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Røykeneselva Naturreservat?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic natural park landscapes, the presence of beautiful waterfalls, and the diverse range of trails that cater to different abilities.
Are there any trails with good viewpoints in Røykeneselva Naturreservat?
Yes, some trails offer excellent viewpoints. For instance, the View from Sledo – Hengen Waterfall loop from Petterøya - Pietarinsaari is a moderate 6.5 km route that provides views from Sledo, combining scenic vistas with the natural beauty of the Hengen Waterfall.
Is Røykeneselva Naturreservat suitable for dog walking?
While specific regulations for dogs are not detailed, nature reserves in Norway generally welcome dogs on trails, often requiring them to be kept on a leash, especially during certain seasons to protect wildlife. It's always best to check local signage upon arrival for any specific rules within Røykeneselva Naturreservat.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Røykeneselva Naturreservat?
The best time to visit Røykeneselva Naturreservat for hiking is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when trails are clear of snow and the weather is most pleasant. This allows for full enjoyment of the diverse landscapes and waterfalls.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
While there are no trails explicitly graded as 'difficult' in the current data, experienced hikers looking for a longer, more strenuous option can consider the Hengen Waterfall – Várdovárri loop from Guosgattaholmen - Guoskat - Kuoskatansaari. This moderate 10.3 km route involves significant elevation gain and takes over three hours to complete, offering a good workout and expansive views towards Várdovárri.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Røykeneselva Naturreservat?
While specific parking facilities are not detailed, trailheads like Guosgattaholmen - Guoskat - Kuoskatansaari and Petterøya - Pietarinsaari, which serve as starting points for many popular routes, typically have designated parking areas for visitors accessing the reserve. It is advisable to check local maps or information boards for precise parking locations.
Most popular routes in Røykeneselva Naturreservat
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