Nigardsbreen Glacier | Travel in Norway
July 27, 2026
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| Photo: Google Maps |
Nigardsbreen is one of the best-known outlet glaciers of Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier on mainland Europe. It reaches down into the Jostedalen valley, making it one of the easiest glaciers in Norway to visit without undertaking a serious alpine expedition.
After arriving at the visitor area, we followed the marked trail towards the glacier. There is an optional boat crossing over the glacial lake that shortens the walk, but it's just as easy to continue on foot around the shoreline if you prefer. The route isn't particularly difficult, although there are rocky sections where good footwear makes a big difference, especially after rain.
Stepping onto the glacier independently is not permitted and can be extremely dangerous because of hidden crevasses, unstable ice and sudden icefalls.
How to get there
During the summer, a seasonal Glacier Bus also operates between Sogndal and Nigardsbreen, making it possible to visit without a car.
The final 3 km to Nigardsbrevatnet follows the private Glacier Road, where a toll is collected at the barrier. Payment can be made by bank card, and the road is usually open from late spring until autumn, depending on weather conditions.
At the end of the road you'll find a large parking area beside the lake, which serves as the starting point for both the glacier walk and guided glacier hikes.
From here you can either walk around the lake or take the small passenger boat across the water, which saves both time and some uneven hiking.
Facilities
Seasonal toilets are available at the parking area near the lake.
The nearest visitor facilities are at Breheimsenteret, where you'll find a café, toilets, exhibitions about Jostedalsbreen National Park, tourist information and tickets for glacier activities.
During summer, guided glacier hikes are organised by Jostedalen Breførarlag, and boat tickets can be purchased directly at the lakeside pier using a bank card.
Best time to visit
The main season runs from June to September, when the road, boat service and guided glacier hikes are all operating. July and August generally offer the warmest weather and the widest choice of activities, while June often has higher snow levels on the surrounding mountains. If you prefer fewer people, September can be an excellent time to visit, although services may begin winding down towards the end of the month. We visited in August and it was perfect!
Useful tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail includes uneven rocks that become slippery when wet.
- Dress in layers. Even on a warm summer day, the temperature near the glacier can be surprisingly cool.
- Bring some drinks and snacks, it is a perfect spot for a small picnic.
- Stay behind safety barriers and warning signs. Ice can collapse without warning, and meltwater rivers change constantly.
- If you want to walk on the glacier itself, book a guided tour. Walking onto the ice without proper equipment and local knowledge is not permitted.
- Bring a waterproof jacket, as weather in the valley can change quickly and rain showers are common, even during summer.
- As always, leave no trace and give yourself plenty of time to simply enjoy the surroundings.
