Høvringen: Cultural Trail, Hiking and Cross-Country Skiing

Høvringen is located in the north of Gudbrandsdalen, on the western side of Rondane National Park. The village combines a marked cultural trail with other hiking routes, cross-country skiing and mountain ski terrain. There is also a cycling route, canoe rentals on the mountain waters, and a history connected with summer mountain farms. If you are looking for a hotel, these activities and the area’s cultural background can help you decide whether Høvringen is the right destination for your trip.

Hiking Trails and Culture in Høvringen

Høvringen Kultursti is a marked cultural trail, about six kilometres long, that loops around the centre of Høvringen. It starts at Høvringen Landhandleri and leads to viewpoints, through valleys and to the natural feature Høvringsporten. The trail also offers insights into the area’s history and culture. Its approximate length is a planning guide; signage and trail maintenance may change.

There are also many well-marked hiking trails through mostly gentle terrain, unless you head for the steepest peaks. The description of the terrain as mostly gentle therefore does not apply to the steepest peaks. Conditions on individual trails may vary when you are choosing a specific hike.

Cross-Country Skiing, Mountain Skiing and Ski Lessons

In the high mountains, Høvringen has 150 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails. Cross-country skiing is therefore a clear focus for a winter stay. If you are interested in mountain ski terrain, the Rondane area in and near Høvringen offers both gentle plateaus and more challenging summit tours. The different types of terrain can help you choose the focus that suits your winter trip.

Høvringen Skiskole offers private and group lessons on its practice slope for children, beginners and people with some experience. Availability may vary by season. If lessons are important to your plans, it is a good idea to check the specific offering in advance.

Cycling and the Mountain Waters

A cycle route connects Høvringen to Skogsætrin. From there, the route continues along county roads through Dovre to the Tour de Dovre at Grimsdalen. This change between route sections is relevant when planning your journey; trail conditions and access may change.

You can rent canoes from Rondeheim, the Norwegian mountain school, to use on Høvringen’s mountain waters. If canoe rental is an important part of your trip, it is best to check availability in advance.

Summer Mountain Farm Traditions and Local History

Around 1900, Høvringen was one of the largest summer mountain farm villages, with at least 35 farms. The date and number give a sense of the village’s size at the time. The history of Høvringen Fjellstue is also connected with a former summer mountain farm: it originated at Ulsvoldseter, where guests were welcomed in summer alongside the usual farm operations in the late 19th century. The area’s history thus brings together summer mountain farming and early guest accommodation.

Getting There and the Regional Context

Høvringen is clearly signposted from the exit north of Otta on the E6. Signage and road conditions may change, so take them into account when planning your journey.

Sel is part of the wider regional context: part of Rondane National Park lies within the municipality of Sel. The mountain areas of Sel have an extensive network of hiking trails and cross-country ski trails. The Gudbrandsdalsleden through Sel also offers nature and views across the valley; it follows narrow paths along the Gudbrandsdalslågen towards Dovre.

Discover more destinations: Otta, Sel, Mysusæter, Heidal

Back to the main travel guide: Sel.