Galdhopiggen

Galdhopiggen is the summit of Norway and of all Northern Europe at 2469 metres, a peak in the heart of Jotunheimen. The most popular route from Juvasshytta crosses a living glacier and so must be walked roped to a guide, ending on a small summit with the whole range spread below.

History

For many years Snøhetta was thought to be Norway's highest summit, so no one tried to climb Galdhøpiggen; in 1844 the geologist Baltazar Mathias Keilhau made two unsuccessful attempts, and in 1850 three men from Lom, the guide Steinar Sulheim, the teacher Lars Arnesen and the church warden Ingebrigt Flotten, reached the top (Wikipedia, Galdhøpiggen).

Highlights

• The summit - the highest point in Northern Europe, with a small hut and vast views.
• The glacier crossing - the roped walk over the Styggebrean glacier from Juvasshytta.
• The peaks of Jotunheimen - the sea of summits seen from the top.
• The mountain lodges - Juvasshytta and Spiterstulen, the high starting points.

When to go

The summer climbing season from June to September, when guided glacier trips run and the route is safe. Weather at the summit is fierce and changeable, so a clear, settled day is essential.

Practical notes

The classic route crosses a crevassed glacier, so it must be done with a guide and cannot be a solo wander - the glacier-free route from Spiterstulen is longer and steeper. It is a full, tiring day at high altitude with real cold and exposure. Turn back readily if the weather closes in.

Nearby

The rest of Jotunheimen, including Besseggen, is all around; Lom and its stave church are the valley base.

Key facts