Gaularfjellet

Gaularfjellet carries route 13 over the mountains between the Sognefjord at Balestrand and the Sunnfjord valleys, and it is one of the national scenic routes, running past the protected Gaular watercourse with its chain of waterfalls and pools. The set piece is Utsikten, a viewpoint opened in 2016 above the eastern hairpins: an angular concrete platform cantilevered out from the slope, from which the road can be seen switchbacking down into the valley toward Balestrand and the fjord beyond. Further west the road passes Likholefossen with its footbridge over the falls. The crossing closes in winter, usually from November to May depending on snow.

Highlights

• Utsikten - an angular concrete platform above the hairpin descent.
• The switchback road - bends dropping toward Balestrand and the fjord.
• The Gaular waterfalls - a protected river system with falls and pools.
• Likholefossen - a footbridge crossing directly above a waterfall.

When to go

June to September, when the road is reliably open; opening depends on snow clearance and the pass shuts for winter. Autumn colour along the Gaular in late September is strong.

What to expect

The road closes for months each year and can shut in early or late season storms. Parking at Utsikten is limited. Cloud on the pass is frequent and hides the view the platform was built for.

Nearby

Balestrand and the Sognefjord lie south; Forde and the Sunnfjord valleys are west.

Key facts