Espedalen and Skåbu

Espedalen is a fantastic starting point for outdoor pursuits, whatever the season. It is often referred to as our "friendly wilderness", has a gentle and accessible mountain landscape with a rich flora and fauna. At Skåbu, just north of Espedalen, you can pick up Jotunheimvegen – a route leading directly to Jotunheimen National Park.

Espedalen and Skåbu offer spectacular walking opportunities, with routes stretching from the lakes down in the valley and up through the forest to the high mountain. At 1571 m above sea level, Ruten is the highest point with breathtaking views towards both Jotunheimen and Rondane. Accommodation providers offer hiking and cross-country ski trails right on their doorstep – with terrain suitable for most abilities.

Along with a plethora of activities, the location is renowned for its unique elk observation tower where you can spend the night and experience wildlife at close range. Espedalen and Skåbu offer a broad range of accommodation options rich in Norwegian cultural heritage and history. You can explore Helvete Nature Park featuring Northern Europe's largest potholes, and the history of the nickel mines at Gravholmen where you also will find Espedalen Mountain Church.

Follow the Peer Gynt route, and you will reach the mountain plateau at approx. 1000 m above sea level. The road is closed during winter, but is transformed to a groomed cross-country ski trail.

Langsua National Park, covering an area of 537 km², was established in 2011, and spans the municipalities of Gausdal, Sør-Fron, Nord-Fron, Øystre Slidre, Nord-Aurdal, and Nordre Land. The national park has a unique eastern Norwegian forest and low-mountain landscape, and is for the public to explore.