Senja, Norway’s second-largest island, is packed with dramatic peaks and deep fjords, but one hike stands out above the rest—Barden. Loved by locals, this mountain trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of both Mefjord and Ørnfjord, as well as a perfect vantage point of Segla, Senja’s most famous peak.
Choosing the Trail
There are two ways up Barden. One path begins in Fjordgård, the same starting point as Segla, but it’s shorter, steeper, and more demanding. The alternative route starts near a small parking area before Ørnfjord Tunnel. Though slightly longer, it offers gentler climbs and incredible panoramas of Ørnfjord. Since exposed ridges make me uneasy, I chose the second trail, which turned out to be a perfect balance of challenge and reward.
Trail Details
- Height: 659 m
- Length: 7 km round trip
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Difficulty: Medium to demanding
Norwegian hiking standards mark Barden as a “red” trail, meaning it requires some stamina and sure-footedness. The terrain is varied: muddy lowlands, rocky flats, steep scrambles, and narrow paths along the mountainside. Good waterproof boots are essential, especially for the swampy section at the beginning.
On the Way Up
The hike starts deceptively easy until you hit a marshy stretch that’s nearly impossible to avoid. With every step, my boots sank deep into the mud, making me grateful for waterproof gear. Once past this section, the path opens to wide rock slabs with views toward Ørnfjord.
The most intimidating part comes at a cliffside section, where the trail climbs steeply. For a moment, I debated turning back. Then, a group of cheerful hikers breezed past, giving me the confidence to continue. Surprisingly, the scramble wasn’t nearly as frightening as it looked. The rocks provided solid handholds, and taking it slow made the ascent manageable. From the top, I was rewarded with sweeping views over the fjord and the valley where the trail began.
After this, the trail levels out, crossing a narrow ledge that looks scarier from afar than it feels up close. Once across, the final stretch leads steadily toward Barden’s summit.
The Summit Experience
Reaching the peak felt like stepping into a natural amphitheater of fjords and mountains. To one side lay Mefjord, its waters glittering below sheer cliffs, and to the other side Ørnfjord, framed by jagged peaks. Segla rose proudly in the distance, its worn hiking trail visible from above.
Standing at 659 meters, the drop into the fjord below is almost vertical, creating a dramatic 360-degree panorama that is nothing short of breathtaking. Whatever fear I had on the way up vanished at that moment, replaced by pure awe.
The Way Back and Beyond
I had worried about descending, but the adrenaline from those incredible views made the return surprisingly easy. With some energy left, I even detoured to the smaller peak of Daven (303 m), where I caught the warm glow of the setting sun over the landscape.
The hike was particularly meaningful for me since I was recovering from a knee injury. I nearly turned back several times, but with trekking poles and patience, I pushed through. Reaching the top felt like a personal victory, one I’ll never forget.
Final Thoughts
Barden was the highlight of my trip through Northern Norway. It’s demanding enough to feel rewarding, yet accessible to anyone prepared with the right gear and mindset. If you want to see Senja at its best—towering mountains, deep fjords, and views that stretch endlessly—this hike is an absolute must.
