Gorsa Bridge is a breathtaking marvel tucked away in the Lyngen Alps, offering an incredible view of the Gorzifossen waterfall cascading into a deep canyon. Standing atop the bridge, you’ll be treated to a vertigo-inducing drop of 153 meters, but the experience is as safe as it is thrilling. This destination is not only visually stunning but also easily accessible, making it an unforgettable stop for any adventure seeker.
The Thrill of Gorsa Bridge
For me, Gorsa Bridge became the highlight of the Lyngen Alps. The view is exhilarating: a narrow canyon below, with the powerful Gorzifossen waterfall tumbling down into it. What sets this spot apart is that it’s a relatively safe place to take in the vast drop beneath you. Unlike some cliffside locations in Norway, you can freely enjoy the view from the bridge without the constant nagging feeling of danger. In fact, if you’re a thrill-seeker, you can even try bungee jumping from the bridge on Saturdays! This is an adrenaline-packed experience that’s featured in several exciting YouTube videos.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Gorsa Bridge is between June and October, after the spring floods and before the winter chill sets in. Even if the weather is less than perfect, with fog or rain rolling in, the views of the waterfall and canyon are still impressive. A cloudy day can add a mysterious atmosphere to the surroundings, and the location is still accessible during rainy weather.
Where Is Gorsa Bridge and How to Get There?
Gorsa Bridge is located in the Kåfjord Valley of the Lyngen Alps, close to the village of Birtavarre. The area has a rich history tied to mining, and nearby, you can explore the Ankerlia open-air museum, which showcases the ruins of old mines. If you’re interested in history and nature, the valley offers additional hikes to former mining sites, including the moderate trail to the Monte Carlo mine and the more challenging path to the Moskkugáisi mines.
How to Reach Gorsa Bridge
There are two main ways to get to Gorsa Bridge, depending on your time and energy levels:
- The Medium Difficulty Hiking Trail
- Trail Length: 8.3 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 3 to 4 hours
- This trail begins at the Ankerlia parking lot and takes you through the Ankerlia open-air museum. It’s a lovely hike with varied terrain and offers scenic views of the valley.
- The Easy Hiking Trail
- Trail Length: 3.6 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 1 to 2 hours
- This shorter and simpler trail is a great option if you’re looking for a quick, easy hike. The parking area is about 1.8 km from the bridge, but the drive gets a bit bumpy after the Ankerlia lot, as the road turns into a gravel, poorly maintained path. However, it’s still navigable with a standard car.
Once you park, the trail meanders through a lovely landscape with views of the valley. The walk is mostly flat, and you’ll be surrounded by nature, with the occasional view of smaller waterfalls before reaching the main attraction, Gorsa Bridge.
The Hike to Gorsa Bridge
On the easy trail, you’ll come across a picnic area as you near the bridge, which makes for a great spot to rest before the final descent. The path then slopes downward toward the bridge, where you’ll find a series of smaller waterfalls cascading alongside the trail. The quiet, relatively uncrowded trail means you may have the bridge all to yourself, offering a peaceful opportunity to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Standing on the bridge, the view of the Gorzifossen waterfall is nothing short of magnificent. It’s hard to capture the true scale and beauty of the scene with photos, as the 153-meter waterfall plunges almost vertically into the canyon below. It’s a sight that’s even more impressive in person, with the roar of the water adding to the dramatic atmosphere.
Why Visit Gorsa Bridge?
Gorsa Bridge is a hidden gem in Northern Norway, combining stunning natural beauty with a sense of adventure. Whether you’re hiking to the bridge or simply stopping to admire the waterfall from its vantage point, it’s an experience you won’t forget. With a mix of history, nature, and thrilling views, this is a must-visit for anyone traveling through the Lyngen Alps.
If you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to explore this incredible bridge and the surrounding landscapes—it’s one of the Lyngen Alps’ most spectacular treasures!
