Briksdalsbre between glacier and valley

Briksdalsbre is defined by its glacier, valley and trails through a striking mountain landscape. At its heart is Briksdalsbreen, a western arm of Jostedalsbreen and part of Jostedalsbreen National Park. The elevation and trails in Briksdalen shape two sides of the trip: the landscape itself and the ways to experience it.

Glacial landscape and history

Briksdalsbreen descends from an elevation of 1,200 metres into the lush, narrow Briksdalen valley. It extends from 1,910 metres to almost Briksdalsvatnet, at 350 metres. These figures convey the wide range in elevation between the glacier and the lake; the extent of a glacier can change over time.

Over thousands of years, the glacier has shaped Briksdalen. The more recent changes are also part of the landscape’s history: after 2000, the glacier front retreated rapidly, and by autumn 2007 it no longer reached the lake. The valley’s long-term formation and a much more recent change in the glacier front are thus part of the same story.

The Briksdalsbre Fjellstove is part of the area’s visitor history. It has welcomed tourists and guests from around the world for more than 140 years.

Trails and Troll Car rides

Kleivafossen lies along the bridge route to Briksdalsbreen. On the south side of the river, a footpath offers a circular hike through lush forest and open glacial landscape. The Keisar-Wilhelm trail is now used exclusively for outdoor activities and hiking through the valley towards Briksdalsbreen. The route is rated easy (green) and is considered manageable for most people.

The seasonal Troll Car ride starts in Briksdal and follows a scenic route through beautiful natural surroundings, passing waterfalls and rapids in Briksdalen. A round trip takes about 1.5 hours and includes a stop at the upper terminus. From the terminus at Kleivane, it is about 500 metres on foot to the lake by Briksdalsbreen. Ramps at the starting point in Briksdal and the terminus at Kleivane make getting on and off easier. If you plan to take the ride, check the timetable, as it operates seasonally.

More perspectives in the Stryn destination

In the wider Stryn destination, the Loen Skylift offers a different mountain perspective: it takes visitors almost 1,000 metres up to the restaurant on the edge of Hoven. Also in Stryn, the Via Ferrata Loen leads from the fjord to the summit of Hoven at 1,011 metres; the climbing route is secured along its entire length with a steel cable. In Oldedalen, hiking options range from easy walks to more challenging mountain hikes. These regional activities complement the trails and glacial landscape around Briksdalsbre with more ideas for planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Innvik, Oppstryn, Hjelle, Olden, Loen, Stryn, Utvik, Blaksæter

Back to the wider travel overview: Stryn.