Walk Behind a Waterfall in Geiranger – The Hike to Storsæterfossen
Did you know that you can actually walk behind a waterfall in Geiranger? The trail to Storsæterfossen leads you from the village, up through farmland and forest, and ends with the roar of the falls crashing down in front of you. It’s a hike that combines fjord views, local history, and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to stand behind a wall of water.
Are you planning a complete road trip through Norway? Make room for Geiranger—it’s a non-negotiable stop. The Storsæterfossen trail is road-trip gold: choose the shorter option from Vesterås when time is tight, or take the longer climb from the village if you’re in the mood for a workout. Either way, you’ll earn the same goosebump moment—stepping behind the roaring curtain of Storsæterfossen—before rolling on to your next fjord-side highlight.
Fossestien – The Trail Begins in the Village
The adventure starts right in the center of Geiranger with the Fossestien (Waterfall Walk). At first it feels like a short and easy stroll: a staircase and walkway following the Storfossen waterfall past the historic hotel. It’s a great introduction if you’ve just arrived and want to stretch your legs, but it also serves as the gateway to a longer adventure.
Vesterås – Farm Life and Fjord Views
Climbing higher, you’ll reach Vesterås farm, a place where people once lived and worked high above the fjord. Today it’s a viewpoint and restaurant, offering panoramic views of Geirangerfjord and a welcome place to catch your breath. The contrast between fertile farm meadows and the steep mountains around them is a reminder of how tough – and resourceful – life was here.
Hiking to Storsæterfossen – a Waterfall in Geiranger
From Vesterås the trail leaves the fjord behind and winds its way into a green-clad valley. You step onto a forest path filled with birdsong and the quiet presence of surrounding peaks. It feels more sheltered here, with only occasional glimpses of the high mountains.
And then you hear it: the roar of the waterfall. Storsæterfossen is a hidden giant, tucked into the cliffs until you’re suddenly standing beneath it. The best part? The trail takes you right behind the curtain of water. Feeling the spray on your face while the water thunders down in front of you is an experience you won’t forget.
The hike is about 9 km round trip with 550 meters of elevation gain – a steady climb, but on a well-marked path.
When “Just a Short Walk” Turns Into a Hike
I have to admit – when I did this hike, it wasn’t planned at all. We had just arrived in Geiranger on a sunny afternoon and decided to stretch our legs on the Waterfall Walk. “Just a little stroll,” we thought.
But then the sign to Vesterås looked tempting. And when we got there, the sign to Storsæterfossen was even more irresistible. Curiosity got the better of us, and before we knew it, we were climbing higher and higher.
The uphill sections definitely made us huff and puff, but standing behind the roaring waterfall was worth every step. On the way back, though, Geiranger weather reminded us who’s boss – the sky opened up, and we ended up running for shelter at the restaurant in Vesterås before calling a taxi back to the camper.
Just a short walk – and 550 meters uphill
What started as a “short walk” turned into 550 meters uphill and nearly 7 km of hiking. Lesson learned: in Geiranger, always wear hiking clothes and bring water – even if you’re only planning a “quick stroll.”
Bonus: This isn’t one of those crowded hikes where you share the trail with hundreds of other tourists. On the way up we only met a handful of fellow hikers – most of the time it felt like we had the mountain (and the waterfall) entirely to ourselves.
And now? Let’s just say I’ve learned to put on shoes that can handle a mountain trail – even if I’m only heading out for “a little breath of fresh air.
📌 Hike Info: Storsæterfossen
- Start: Geiranger village (via the Waterfall Walk / Fossestien)
- Distance: ~9 km round trip (our version was ~7 km with a taxi part of the way back)
- Elevation gain: ~550 meters
- Duration: 3–4 hours round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate – steady uphill, but on a marked trail
- Highlights: Fantastic fjord views from Vesterås, and the unique chance to walk behind Storsæterfossen
💡 Tip: Bring a rain jacket – not just for the Geiranger weather, but also for the waterfall itself.
A Shorter Alternative
If you’re not up for 550 meters of climbing or you’re short on time, you can still enjoy the Fossestien. The walk up to the hotel in Geiranger follows the Storfossen waterfall and offers both views and a refreshing spray – perfect for a quick taste of nature without committing to a full hike.
Why Hike to Storsæterfossen?
This trail is the perfect mix of accessible adventure and big rewards. You’ll get fjord panoramas, a taste of local history, and the thrill of standing behind a waterfall – all within a half-day hike. For road trippers, it’s an ideal way to turn a stop in Geiranger into an unforgettable memory.
A Waterfall in Geiranger – an Adventure to Remember
Geiranger is full of epic scenery, but Storsæterfossen offers something playful and unique. It’s the kind of hike where curiosity turns into adventure, and where even a little rain shower becomes part of the story.
Happy hiking!
– Anne Bente 😊
💬 Have You Walked Behind a Waterfall?
If you’ve hiked to Storsæterfossen (or just explored the Waterfall Walk), I’d love to hear your story – share it in the comments below. And if you know someone planning a trip to Geiranger, pass this guide along for a little inspiration.
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