Reinebringen is undoubtedly one of the most famous hikes in the Lofoten Islands, and for good reason. With its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and the charming fishing village of Reine, it’s no surprise that this hike has captured the hearts of many outdoor enthusiasts. Though once considered dangerous and challenging, recent improvements have made the trail more accessible and safer, especially with the addition of the sherpa steps that opened in 2019.
Quick Facts about the Reinebringen Hiking Trail
- Elevation: 448 meters
- Trail Difficulty: Medium
- Distance: 1 km
- Estimated Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Location of Reinebringen
Located near the picturesque village of Reine, the Reinebringen trail offers one of the most stunning views in the Lofoten Islands. The 448-meter peak may not be the highest in the region, but it provides an incredible vantage point overlooking Reinefjorden and the surrounding villages of Hamnøy and Sakrisøy. The landscape here is iconic, and it’s the perfect spot for photographers looking to capture the essence of Lofoten’s natural beauty.
Parking and Access to the Trail
There are several parking areas near the start of the trail. We were fortunate to park at a lot with a fantastic view of Reine, which made the experience even more memorable. From the parking area, a short trail leads to the actual Reinebringen trailhead, where the adventure begins.
My Experience on the Reinebringen Trail
Reinebringen had been on my bucket list for years, but I’ll admit, I hesitated before embarking on the hike. During my time in Norway, I realized I have a slight fear of heights—something I hadn’t fully understood before. I’ve hiked in other countries with steep terrain, but I was always reassured by safety fences or more controlled environments. In Norway, however, the wild nature of the land means there are no such barriers, and the raw beauty of the landscape can be both awe-inspiring and intimidating.
I’d read a lot about Reinebringen before my trip, and most of what I found didn’t ease my concerns. Many described it as a very steep and challenging hike, with dangerous, slippery paths and the risk of falling rocks, especially with so many inexperienced tourists attempting it. The trail’s popularity also meant there would likely be crowds, which is something I tend to avoid, particularly on a hike with no barriers to prevent a fall. To top it off, Reinebringen has been the site of several fatalities, which made me even more anxious.
However, I visited in mid-August 2019 when the crowds were thinner, and I had heard that the new sherpa steps had made the trail significantly safer. After weighing the pros and cons, I decided to give it a try. If it wasn’t for me, I could always turn back. And deep down, I knew I’d regret missing out on one of Lofoten’s most iconic views.
The Sherpa Steps and Trail Conditions
The sherpa steps were built by skilled workers from Nepal, and although they’re not entirely finished, they’ve made a world of difference. There are currently 1,560 steps leading up to around 400 meters in elevation. From there, hikers must continue on the old, more rugged trail for the final stretch. The steps themselves are relatively easy to climb, but since they stretch for 1 kilometer, it’s still a physically demanding ascent. Your pace will depend on your fitness level, but there are plenty of spots to rest along the way.
As someone who considers themselves to be in good shape, I found the climb manageable, though there were some older hikers navigating the steps with walking sticks, proving that this trail is achievable for most people. When I reached the point where the sherpa steps ended, it was clear how much more challenging this hike would have been without them. The path was steep, with loose dirt and few rocks to provide secure footing. The popularity of the trail means it’s been worn down over time, adding to the difficulty.
Reaching the Summit: A Thrilling Experience
Upon reaching the viewpoint, my excitement quickly turned to apprehension. The drop on the other side was sheer and terrifying, with nothing to hold onto. Thankfully, there was a natural rock shelter nearby where I could take refuge and snap a few photos. If you’re afraid of heights, I’d recommend stopping here rather than continuing further to the actual summit.
Despite the nerve-wracking moments, the views from Reinebringen were every bit as spectacular as I had imagined. After capturing some photos, I decided it was time to descend. Going down was even more challenging for me than the ascent. I was terrified of losing my balance, so I ended up sliding down the steps on my backside. It may have looked a bit silly, but it made the descent easier, and I wasn’t alone in doing it!
The Final Thoughts on Reinebringen
Though the hike was physically demanding and at times a bit scary, I don’t regret taking on Reinebringen. Confronting my fear of heights was rewarding, and the views from the top were absolutely worth the effort. If you plan on hiking Reinebringen, I highly recommend doing it in the evening when the crowds have thinned out. This way, you can enjoy the spectacular scenery in peace and capture some amazing photos without the hustle and bustle.
Reinebringen is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Lofoten, but it’s not for the faint of heart. The sherpa steps have made it more accessible, but the steep terrain and exposed drops mean that hikers should still be cautious and prepared.
