It is located near the Lofoten and is less popular, but perhaps much more beautiful: Senja. The Norwegian island located above the Arctic Circle is known for its rugged landscape with steep mountains, cliffs and beautiful sea views. And one of the best places to see this clearly is during the hike to the top of Hesten and Segla. In this blog I share more about these two great hikes.

Senja

But first some more information about Senja. The island, located above the Arctic Circle, is also called Norway in miniature. This is thanks to the varied landscape. You will find rugged nature with steep mountain peaks and impressive cliffs, but also quiet forests, rivers and some small fishing villages. The perfect destination for those who love the rugged Norwegian landscapes, but would like to avoid the massive crowds of the Lofoten in the high season. Moreover, Senja is also a perfect destination for those who love hiking, with the hikes to the top of Hesten and Segla as highlights.

Read more about what to do and see in Senja here

Hike to Segla

The most popular hike of the two is that of Segla. At the top you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the area, including the Segla cliffs, Mefjord, the surrounding mountains and the ocean. The starting point of the hike to Segla starts at the parking lot in the village of Fjordgård. From there you can follow a well-marked path. The route to the top of Segla is approximately 4.6 kilometers (round trip) and climbs quite steeply. The first part of the route runs through a wooded area until you reach the tree line and the terrain becomes a lot rockier. With the rugged terrain and a total height difference of approximately 640 meters, the hike to Segla is a steep climb.

The difficulty level of the hike is therefore challenging. Sturdy walking shoes and a good condition are therefore recommended. Especially the last part of the walk is very challenging, with many steep parts and loose stones. The best time for the hike to Segla is therefore from June to September. During this period the trails are usually free of snow (which is advisable given the rugged terrain) and the weather is at its most favorable. Not only in terms of temperature, but due to its location above the Arctic Circle, you can also enjoy long summer evenings or even the midnight sun during this period. The route, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours in total, can also be done in the evening, for example. Make sure you wear good clothing (it can be cold and very windy at the top even in summer) and take enough water and some snacks with you.

Information hike Segla, Senja:
Distance: 4,6 kilometer
Duration: 4 to 5 uur hours in total
Height difference: 640 meter
Best time: June till September

Hike to Hesten

Less popular, but not necessarily less beautiful, is the hike to Hesten. The hike is located near Segla and also starts at the parking lot in the village of Fjordgård. However, the route is different, so you will have to choose whether to run both hikes separately. You can also follow a well-marked path on the route to Hesten, which will take you to the top of Hesten and back in about 3 to 4 hours. The route is about 4 kilometers and, with a height difference of 550 meters, is less steep than the one to the top of Segla. The hike to Hesten is therefore more accessible for hikers with an average level of condition and who have less experience with mountain hiking. Nevertheless, it remains a tough climb and sturdy walking shoes and good condition are recommended.

Once at the top of Hesten you have an impressive view of the area, including the surrounding mountains and fjords, and the top of Segla itself. The steep rock wall that rises from the fjord is the highlight of the hike to Hesten. For some, it is also the reason to do the hike to Hesten, because only from there you have a view of the top of Segla. It is not possible to continue from the top of Hesten to Segla without having to return to the start. As mentioned, you will then have to choose whether both routes should run separately. Do you have little time and do you have to choose? Then the hike to Hesten might be the best option. This one is less challenging and offers you an impressive view of the top of Segla itself.

Information hike Hesten, Senja:
Distance: 4 kilometer
Duration: 3 to 4 hours in total
height difference: 550 meter
Best time: June to September