Senja Island in Northern Norway is a paradise for hikers, with rugged mountains and deep fjords shaping its dramatic scenery. Among its many trails, Husfjellet stands out as a rewarding climb, offering views over Steinfjord, Ersfjord, and Bergsfjord—the quintessential Senja landscape of sharp peaks and winding waterways.
Trail Overview
Although Husfjellet is marked as a demanding red trail by Norwegian standards, many hikers would consider it moderate. The route is long enough to be a challenge but not overwhelming, and the most striking views await at the summit. For those seeking an extra thrill, a narrow continuation path stretches beyond the peak along steep ridges, though it isn’t necessary to enjoy the hike.
- Elevation: 635 m
- Distance: 8 km round trip
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Difficulty: Medium
The path passes over Sommardalen, a 327-meter peak halfway to the top. Waterproof hiking boots are essential, as the lower sections often turn into muddy stretches, especially after rainfall. Attempting this trail in wet conditions is not recommended, since both visibility and footing can be poor.
Beginning the Hike
The trail starts near Berg church in Skaland, where there’s a parking area large enough for visitors. From the beginning, the red marker gave me pause, but the first challenge came not from steep climbs but from the mud. The opening section winds through small trees along a soggy path, making the footing slippery and slow.
After about two kilometers, the trees open up to views of Bergsfjord, with Sommardalen peak marking the halfway point. Despite its modest height, reaching Sommardalen felt like a proper climb, and from there Husfjellet loomed in the distance.
Across the Valley and Upward
Beyond Sommardalen, the trail dips into a flat, muddy valley. Planks laid across the ground offer some help, though many are unsteady, and stepping into knee-deep mud is a real possibility. Once across, the route begins to rise again, this time more steadily and with drier ground underfoot.
Soon, the mountains reveal themselves in full glory. From a rocky viewpoint, the jagged ridges above Ersfjord stretch across the horizon, the same dramatic cliffs seen from Tungeneset but now from a bird’s-eye perspective. This spot is sheltered from the wind, making it a perfect place to pause for a snack before the final push to the top.
The Summit Experience
The last climb follows a broad path alongside a cliff, with plenty of room to keep away from the edge if heights are intimidating. At the summit of Husfjellet, fog rolled in, cloaking the views in grey and bringing colder air with it. For a while, it felt like the journey might end in disappointment.
But patience paid off. As the mist lifted, the landscape appeared piece by piece—Steinfjord to one side, Bergsfjord to the other, and the jagged coastline stretching far into the distance. The transformation was mesmerizing, as if the mountains had slowly revealed their secrets.
Final Thoughts
Husfjellet became one of the most memorable hikes of my time in Norway. The mix of muddy valleys, rocky ridges, and panoramic peaks makes it both challenging and deeply rewarding. For photographers and hikers alike, this trail is a chance to experience Senja’s wild beauty at its best. Waiting out the rain was worth every moment once the fog lifted and the fjords came into view.
