Trollveggen, Norway

Last Updated on 26 August 2025 by Johan

Trollveggen, or “The Troll Wall,” is located in Rauma Municipality, within Møre og Romsdal County in western Norway. It rises dramatically from the Romsdalen valley, forming part of the Trolltindene mountain range. The name “Trollveggen” stems from Norwegian folklore, where trolls are mythical creatures said to inhabit remote mountains and forests. The wall’s towering, jagged profile inspired the name, evoking the image of a fortress built by trolls.

Historical Background

Trollveggen is Europe’s tallest vertical rock face, with a total height of approximately 1,000 meters from base to summit, including a sheer vertical drop of about 1,000 meters and an overhang of up to 50 meters. It became a focal point for Scandinavian mountaineering in the 1960s, attracting elite climbers from across the world. The first successful ascent was completed in 1965 by a Norwegian team, marking the beginning of its reputation as one of the most challenging climbs in Europe.

In the 1980s, Trollveggen gained notoriety as a BASE jumping site. The first recorded jump was made by Finnish jumper Jorma Øster in 1980. Between 1980 and 1986, nearly 400 jumps were performed. However, due to multiple fatalities and complex rescue operations, BASE jumping from Trollveggen was officially banned in 1986.

Climbing and Outdoor Activities

Trollveggen is considered one of the most technically demanding climbing walls in Europe. Its unstable rock, frequent rockfalls, and unpredictable weather make it suitable only for highly experienced climbers. Routes such as the “Swedish Route” and “Rimmon Route” are known for their difficulty and exposure.

Local tip: For those not equipped for vertical climbing, the best way to admire Trollveggen is from the roadside viewpoint at Horgheimseidet, along the E136 highway through Romsdalen. This spot offers unobstructed views of the wall and surrounding peaks.

Hiking to the Summit

While climbing the face itself is reserved for experts, hikers can reach the top of Trollveggen via a trail from the backside, starting near Trollstigen. The hike to Bruraskardet (also known as Brudesløret) takes approximately 3 to 5 hours and does not require climbing equipment. From the summit, visitors enjoy panoramic views over Romsdalen, with clear sightlines to Romsdalshorn, Vengetind, and Bispen on the opposite side of the valley.

Local tip: Begin the hike early in the day and bring layers—weather conditions can change rapidly at higher altitudes.

BASE Jumping Legacy

Although BASE jumping from Trollveggen is prohibited, the site remains a symbol of the sport’s early history. In 1984, American jumper Carl Boenish set a Guinness World Record for the highest BASE jump from the cliff. Today, legal BASE jumping is permitted at other locations in Norway, such as Kjerag in Lysefjord, but Trollveggen remains off-limits due to safety concerns.

Local tip: For those interested in the sport’s history, the Norwegian Mountaineering Center in Åndalsnes offers exhibitions and films documenting the evolution of climbing and BASE jumping in the region.

Scenic Drives and Nearby Attractions

Driving through Romsdalen offers one of Norway’s most scenic routes, with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and alpine vistas. The Trollstigen mountain road, located nearby, features hairpin bends and dramatic viewpoints.

Local tip: Combine your visit to Trollveggen with a drive along Trollstigen, stopping at the visitor center and viewing platform for a full experience of the region’s mountainous terrain.

Sources