Explanation of symbols BLEIK Open fi re area

Wheelchair user friendly Rest area / lean-to shelter ANDØY Cabin

Parking

STØ Summit point / Height in metres NYKSUND RISØYHAMN Recommended route MYRE Route descriptions / Map ØKSNES BUKSNESFJORD FORFJORD

Tour & Bike-map Vesterålen 1:100 000 BØ STRAUME SORTLAND

STOKMARKNES Vesterålen Hiking Association’s «På tur i MØYSALEN Vesterålen» - only in norwegian (2011) NASJONALPARK Hiking Association’s cabins: LØDINGEN

• Ingemannhytta LØDINGEN • Guvåghytta • Trollfjordhytta TROLLFJORDEN • Snytindhytta www.turistforeningen.no/vesteralen Published by Vesterålen Friluftsråd: www.vestreg.no/friluftsraad/ This brochure is intended to give you an idea of some of Møysalen National Park is one of the country’s smallest the fi ne hiking experiences we have in Vesterålen. We national preserves, only 51.2 km2 in area on Hinnøya, have selected a few suggested routes in each of the mu- ’s largest island. Towering in the centre of the na- nicipalities. For more detailed information and several tional park is Møysalen, the 1262-metre-tall mountain that other routes, we highly recommend the Hiking Asso- the Norwegian outdoor magazine Ute designated in 2009 ciation’s book: «På Tur i Vesterålen» (ISBN 978-82- as «Norway’s most beautiful natural attraction». Guided 995236-2-2). Available only in Norwegian. tours are arranged to the summit, starting at Hennes. See: www.moeysalen.no There are marked hiking trails throughout the entire Vesterålen area, and they may be used during both sum- There is a touring map with several suggested trip itinerar- mer and winter. The routes are easily accessible and are ies. The map is also very suitable for use as a road map. found almost anywhere one wants to explore. There are There are also marked trails to the Norwegian Trekking two marked coastal trails, each described by a separate Association’s cabins in Vesterålen. brochure. One is located in Bø (Straumsjøen – Spjelkvå- You can visit the home page of Vesterålen Hiking Associa- gen) and the other in Andøya (Stave – Bleik). tion, www.turistforeningen.no/vesteralen, if you want in- formation about the seasonal excursion programme or the Dronningruta is a marked hiking trail about 15 km long be- local hiking association’s cabins in Vesterålen. tween Stø and Nyksund. This is the route that Queen Sonja We also recommend www.ut.no for further hiking sugges- enjoyed so much in 1994, and which was thereafter called tions. the «Queen’s Route». The trip can be done as a round trip with the starting point and return either at Stø or Nyksund (see the pages for Øksnes municipality).

Måtinden. Photo: Ståle Jenssen ANDØYA Farthest north in Vesterålen is Andøya island with its moors and jagged mountain peaks. Con- trasts are great between the northwest side of the island, where barren mountains plunge almost vertically into the open ocean, and the moor- lands that cover half of the island’s ground sur- face. On the average, the moor areas rise only some ten metres above sea level. The varied natural surroundings with abun- dant beaches, moors, mountaintops, rivers and fi shting lakes make Andøya a fantastic area in which to hike. Bleiksøya with its characteristic peak just off the shores of Bleik village is a favourite destina- tion for bird-watchers. Be aware that Bleiksøya is protected and that it is illegal to go ashore dur- ing June and the fi rst half of July.

KVASSTINDEN OBS/NOTE: The three kilometres long stretch of road between Rising 705 mas, Kvasstin- into Norddalen and then shift Åknes and Norddalen may be in a very poor condition, and it is den is the highest point on course southward towards not recommended to drive if you are afraid of damaging your Andøya. The summit can be the ridge of Kvasstinden. car. It takes approximately half an hour to walk from the barrier reached from several sides; From here, you follow the in Åknes to Norddalen, where the route starts. we recommend a simple ridge directly to the top. This route from Norddalen on the is a more gradual route with outer side of Andøya. From a softer hiking surface – a the main road at the entrance good alternative for people to Norddalen, set your course with weak knees. towards the south-southeast From the summit there is a heading towards Bulltinden. good view out towards Øks- This is a fast and dry route in nes and most of Andøya. elevated terrain. From Bull- GPS starting point: X - coordinate 0517731 / Y - coordinate: tinden, you follow the ridge 7648327 (UTM zone 33W) in a southeasterly direction GPS summit point: in good, easy terrain up to X - coordinate: 0519370 / Y - coordinate: the summit. 7646645 (UTM zone 33W) An alternative route is to Marked trail: not marked. Good trail follow the trail a distance Level of diffi culty: medium Kvasstinden. Photo: Ivar Steiro

ANDØY MUNICIPALITY – MORE RECOMMENDED ROUTES, SEE «PÅ TUR I VESTERÅLEN» (ONLY IN NORWEGIAN). Kvasstinden

Kvasstindheia

Bulitinden (371)

Norddalen

Svindalen (footpath) Norddalselva Åknes / Risøyhamn

ANDØY HAS THE COASTAL TRAIL «STAVE – BLEIK». SEPARATE BROCHURE, AVAILABLE AT THE TOURISTE OFFICE. BUKSNESFJORDEN Photo: Andøy Friluftssenter «SÆTERVEIEN» The physically challenged If you follow the route to- erosion of the terrain when The Sæterveien hiking rou- can also enjoy parts of the wards Langvassdalen for the ice receded some ten te/trail between - hiking trail, provided you about 4.7 km, you will thousand years ago; it is fjord and Langvassdalen start in the north, at Buk- come to a large lean-to characterised by a quater- in Forfjord snakes through snesfjord. A couple hundred shelter at the southern end nary geologist as a glacial moors, forests, hills and be- metres from the main road, of Kringelvatnet – a perfect valley. tween mountains of up to there is a detour off the main stop where you can light 700 m in height. Along the trail running about 400 m a fi re in the fi replace and Length: 8 km, with certain route there are several look- up towards the little fi sh- steep a pot of coffee. After sections rising up to 100 m out points with wonderful ing lake of Manndalsvat- another 2.5 km, you can above sea level. panoramas of fi shing lakes, net, adapted for wheelchair turn off the trail and take a salmon rivers, the Eikeland users with a road, pier and detour up to Skavdalsvatnet Sæterveien is designated as natural preserve, and far-off open campfi re area. This at- at about 160 mas. a medium easy hiking trail. places such as Andfjord and traction is also an experi- the Senja mountains. ence of nature that is acces- The extensive valley be- sible to everyone. tween Buksnesfjord and Forfjord is the result of ice

ANDØY HAS THE COASTAL TRAIL «STAVE – BLEIK». SEPARATE BROCHURE, AVAILABLE AT THE TOURISTE OFFICE. Andenes

(106)

Sortland Lynghaugtinden

Spikarheia

Trolldalen

Fjærvollfjellet (161)

Fjærvoll

Gimstad

Straume

LYNGHAUGTINDEN / fjellet and on to the forest/tractor road leading to Soppåsen. After VETTEN Soppåselva, you follow the ridge The trip we describe here is only south of Trolldalsvatnet – up to one of many possibilities taking the summit of Vetten (467 mas). Fjærvoll as your point of depar- From Vetten, take the trail ture. In the area east of Fjærvoll- northward to the fl at Spikarheia fjellet, you will fi nd a number and on to Lynghaugtinden (504 of well marked trails and forest mas). The return trip runs along the shooting range or the elec- GPS starting point: roads where you can start your trical power shed at Steine. But X - coordinate: 0477775 / Y - coordinate: Revelten and across the moor 7615355 (UTM zone 33W) trek into the mountains or re- to Fjærvoll. At Nøkktjønna – a Straume can also be used as a main on the lowlands between point of departure to get to Vet- GPS summit point: (Vetten) small detour north of the main X - coordinat 0481395/ Y - coordinate: the villages of Straume – Fjær- ten. The length of the trip varies route – the villagers of Fjærvoll 7614207 (UTM zone 33W) voll – Steine. according to the choice of route, have built a cabin for day out- GPS summit point: (Lynghaugtinden) Towards Lynghaugtinden: from 3 to 7 km – depending on ings. X - coordinate 0481226/ Y - coordinate: From the car park at Fjærvoll your starting point. However, it should be pointed 7616915 (UTM zone 33W) kindergarten, you follow the path out that most residents of Bø Marked trail: marked on the northern side of Fjærvoll- who hike to Vetten begin from Level of diffi culty: medium BØ MUNICIPALITY – MORE RECOMMENDED ROUTES, SEE «PÅ TUR I VESTERÅLEN» (ONLY IN NORWEGIAN). Vetten

Skredtinden Veggfjellet

Hundsdalen Rundtuva

Øyjorda Nilåsen Steine

SKREDTINDEN / municipality. The trips include Gaukværøy, Litløy, the birdwa- VEGGFJELLET tching trail at Straume, Sinahula Starting from the ski cabin at Øy- and the route from Ringstad to jorda near Straume, your trip can Klakksjord – all well worth a run across Rundtuva and Øyjord- visit. See further info on Bø mu- heia to Veggfjellet and Skredtin- nicipality’s home page. den (442 mas). The return trip runs GPS starting point: along the ridge towards the south- X – coordinate: 0479993 / Y - coordinate: west, via Hundsdalen and Nilsåsen 7619549 (UTM zone 33W) and back to your starting point. GPS summit point: (Veggfjellet) There is a view of most of the Bø X - coordinate 0481845/ Y - coordinate: 7620358 (UTM zone 33W) settlements and also of large areas GPS summit point: (Skredtinden) of the Vesterålen islands. X - coordinate 0481622/ Y - coordinate: Bø municipality has been ac- 7621263 (UTM zone 33W) tive in the project Ringelihorn Marked trail: not marked. Good trail The photo to the left shows the summit of Vetten, with a view and has signposted and marked Level of diffi culty: medium out towards Gaukværøya. Photo: Alf Oxem several attractive routes in the BØ HAS THE COASTAL TRAIL «STRAUMSJØEN – SPJELKVÅGEN». SEPARATE BROCHURE, AVAILABLE AT THE TOURISTE OFFICE. The view from the top is amazing, where you’ll see the centre of , the The trip is also suitable at winter time. bridges and a panaroma view of the ocean on the far side of Vesterålen. Photo: Ivar Steiro

HALLARTINDEN old forest road going to the left. Follow this road a couple hun- At the southernmost tip of dred metres and then bear right Langøya is Hallartinden (530 on a trail marked with yellow mas). Despite its modest height, refl ector ribbon. the summit provides an excel- lent view towards Hadseløya, Your fi rst destination is Mat- the northern part of Austvågøy skapkollen (299 mas), located and the western side of Eids- 1. A few hundred meters after the fence, just above the forest line. The take a left turn on to an old forest road. fjord. trail upward is well packed, with an even incline all the way. The Start from the car park on the view is excellent all the way. GPS starting point: upper side of the road at the X – coordinate 0499018 / Y - coordinate: Råvoll Plant Nursery, about 2 This is one of the Top Ten Trips 7608386 (UTM zone 33W) km from the turnoff on the Had- in Hadsel, and it is suitable for GPS summit point: sel bridge breakwater. Follow the whole family. Bring along X - coordinate: 0497717 / Y - coordinate: the road up to the left. Approxi- liquids to drink, since there are 7609851 (UTM zone 33W) mately two hundred metres after no streams found along this 2. Follow the forest road for a couple Marked trail: not marked, good trail the fence, you will come to an route. of hundred meters, and then take a Level of diffi culty: easy to medium right turn on the path. HADSEL MUNICIPALITY – MORE RECOMMENDED ROUTES, SEE «PÅ TUR I VESTERÅLEN» (ONLY IN NORWEGIAN). Hallartinden

Matskapkollen

Sandnes THE SKIING NETWORK from Sorgenfri via Ørnheia and : Follow the signs from Lekangmarka and on through further on up to Storheia is spo- downtown Melbu to the Vest- Lekangdalen until the trail IN HADSEL radically prepared. For informa- erålen Sports Hall and continue crosses the road at Husbydalen. Hadseløya has some 40 km. tion on the status of trails, about 500 metres to the ski facil- At the crossroad 50 m before of prepared ski trails to offer. see www.skisporet.no ity at Brekka, or follow the road Sorgenfri, you bear to the right Beginning from Stokmarknes, Stokmarknes, Lekang and approx. 200 m up from the Com- up to Ørnhei Cabin – The Red Lekang or Melbu, there are Melbu all have good, well func- munity Centre/Melbo Manor. An Cross cabin with good facilities. some amazing skiing opportu- tioning ski trails. The lights alternative is to follow the signs The cabin is attended during nities through grandiose and are turned on at 5 p.m. and are towards Hadsel Upper Secondary weekends throughout the win- varied natural surroundings. turned off again at 11 p.m. School and Fjellveien all the way ter. Follow the marked ski trail The trail network is prepared to Lundeporten – or you can start up to Storheia. Return the same by Stokmarknes Sports Asso- How do I fi nd the starting points? from Gullstad. way, or via Ørnheia and down ciation, starting at Stokmarknes Stokmarknes: Turn off of Rv 82 to the Scouts’ Cabin. This alter- and running via Lekangmarka at the hospital and follow the sign Suggested trips: native does not have prepared to Sorgenfri and further on to to the camping site; as an alter- Stokmarknes – Lekang – trails. Båtvatnet. Melbu Sports As- Length: about 20 km round trip native, you can park at Hadsel Ørnheia – Storheia. sociation’s ski group prepares Sports Hall. Time: about 2.5 hours up and Start from the skiing facility the trails from Melbu via Gull- Lekang: Turn off the main road at one hour down (by Hadsel Sports Hall) at the stadmarka to Båtvatnet. In addi- either Hadsel Church or at Steilo The trip from Stokmarknes end of Idrettsveien. Follow the tion, seasonal skiing trails from and drive to Lekang. At Lekang, via Lekang, up Herhalsen, past prepared ski trail via Trolldalen Melbu via Grønntuva and up directions to the car park by the Sorgenfri and Båtvatnet and to the Scouts’ Cabin. From here to Melbumoan are prepared – lighted trail are signposted. down to Melbu is the route of you continue via Hadselåsen, conditions permitting. The trail the annual Ulvøyrennet ski run. Follow the ski tracks in Hadsel on: http://skisporet.no/nordland/hadseloya Melbu – Båtvatnet in Brekka. and taking the ski loop around and up to Sorgenfri. From here Start at the skiing facility and Length: about 10 km. Kvantolimyra. the trail leads down to Lekang, follow the lighted trail to Van- Time: 2 hours Length: about 10 km. where you will continue via ndamsbakken. From here you Time: about 2 hours Hadselåsen, the Scouts’ Cabin continue straight ahead towards Melbu – Melbumoan and down to Stokmarknes. A Gullstad. Follow the trail along Start at Skileikanlegget and Vatndalen – Melbu, Lekang or fantastic trip! the foot of the mountain and in- follow the lighted trail to Stokmarknes Length: Vatndalen – Stokmark- ward to Finnsteinen. At the inter- Kvaaldammen and then on up to (unprepared trail in sections) nes about 30 km section just after Finnsteinelva, the intersection just north of the Start at the car park at the end of Time: Vatndalen – Stokmarknes you continue straight ahead and waterworks. Follow the trail to the road in Vatndalen. From here about 4 hours continue west of Flatåsmyra; the left up the hill to Stengmyra take the trail in through Brei- you will pass «the king’s stone», and continue along the west side vikdalen, up to Fagervollheia and cross Urvasselva and continue of Stengvatnet. At this point the continue past Mannshausen and up to Båtvatnet. The return trip trail curves off toward the west down to Setervatnet/Vasshaug- runs down from Båtvatnet and and then goes northward, past vatnet. The trip continues to Na- westward past Lomstjønna. At Grønntua, Appelsinholla and up kkvatnet and up via Gotadalen the fi rst intersection, bear left to Barheia. From here the trail to Barheia. From here there are and continue straight ahead makes a loop across Melbumoan prepared trails down to Stenvat- down to Finnsteinelva. Here you (375 mas) and continues to the net. At this point, you turn off the foot of Motinden (625 mas). Re- trail if your destination is Melbu. continue southward to Vakdalen The ski tracks can be followed on the turn the same way – or you can If you continue, you will take the and down to Kvaaldammen. Fol- net and are regularly updated. extend your trip a little by bear- trail south of Stengvatnet down low the lighted trail back to your Here is an illustration from this web- ing right just below Grønntuva starting point at Skileikanlegget towards Finnsteinelva, Båtvatnet site. See the link below. Follow the ski tracks in Hadsel on: http://skisporet.no/nordland/hadseloya Lamåsen

Lødingen Vestbygd Photo: Alf Oxem

LAMÅSEN Annfi nnslett, Saltvatnet, Øksf- YTTERSTADFJELLET guest book is placed under the A fi ne day trip experience for jorden and out across Vestfjord, A fi ne day trip, about 1.5 – 2 cairn at the summit. young and old alike, about 45- Svellingen and Hamarøya. Here hours up to the summit – 446 Length: about 3.5 km, somewhat 60 min up to the summit – 251 you will discover new natural mas. Start at Fv 691, about 500 m challenging. mas. Begin from Fv 691, about gems in wild and breathtak- west of the Ytterstad Farm (sign- 500 metres west of the Ann- ing Vestbygda. From Lamåsen posted on the road). From the car fi nnslett Coop Market. Park by you may extend your trip by park alongside the national road, the Coop, since there are few taking several marked hiking the marked trail runs through parking spaces at the starting trails, towards Hustandtinden or forested area, underbrush and point. Langfjellkruna. rocky scree up to the fi rst hill- From the main road, the for- Length: about 2.5 km to top, Nattmålsteinen. From here est road runs northward through Lamåsen, clearly marked forest it continues northeast, past Små- forest terrain into Burvassdalen. trail. An easy trip for the family. vatnene and up to the summit. From here, the forest road rises From Ytterstadtinden there is a towards the northwest/northeast GPS starting point: marvellous view toward Nar- GPS starting point: up to Lamåsen, where there X - coordinate: 0517670 / Y - coordinate: vik in the east, Stetinden in the X - coordinate: 0526714 / Y - coordinate: 7582980 (UTM zone 33W) 7580442 (UTM zone 33W) are Vestbygd granite tables and southeast, Hamarøya in the south GPS summit point: GPS summit point: benches. A little shelter has and in the west. Below X - coordinate: 0518979 / Y - coordinate: X - coordinate: 0527053 / Y - coordinate: been built here, with a grill site the mountain, the settlements of 7584945 (UTM zone 33W) 7582943 (UTM zone 33W) beside it. The guest book is in- Hesten, Rinøy, Ytterstad, Kjeøy Marked trail: not marked, good trail Marked trail: small cairns mark the trails side the shelter. Wonderful view and Offersøy glisten like pre- Level of diffi culty: easy from the treeline to the summit towards the southwest – toward cious gems in Vestbygda. The SEE WEBSITE WWW.TIPATOPP.NO – FOR MORE ROUTES. TORALFSBU nor challenging under good snow Our trail starts from E10 in Kan- conditions. The worst portion is stadbotnen. Make your start- actually at the beginning of the ing point the car park between trail, which runs through un-der- Kobbedalsbekken and the high brush and slightly steep terrain. tension line that crosses the road. After you cross the forest line, the Set course and go about 350 m route is easy going. northwest; follow the power line The summer trail is marked by until the terrain fl attens out, and the Norwegian Trekking Associa- then go due north towards Svar- tion and is calculated to take four tvatnet. The winter route crosses hours to do. The winter trail fol- the lake (when the ice is safe), lows this route in the beginning while the summer route follows and at the end. It should be able to the west bank (western side) of be done in under three hours. the lake. Follow the river until Toralfsbu comprises a main you come to the second Kvitelv- cabin with eight beds and an an- vatn, which can be crossed – or cillary cabin with four beds. The passed on either side. Once again, main cabin has a woodstove, follow the riverbed due west, and while the ancillary cabin has a Toralfsbu will come into view. coal stove for warmth and a gas The trail is about ten kilome- oven for preparing food. The cab- in is locked with DNT’s standard tres long and is neither diffi cult Photo: Odd-Eirik Einarsen key. SEE WEBSITE WWW.TIPATOPP.NO – FOR MORE ROUTES. Photo: Alf Oxem

RISDALEN If you don’t want to go to any of the summits in the area, Ris- dalen itself is suitable as a hiking alternative. Here you will fi nd well developed hiking trails and forest roads in the valley, as well as benches and open fi re areas. If you enjoy fi shing, Risvat- net is available with readily accessible fi shing spots. The area is suitable for wheelchair users. Photo: Alf Oxem

SKATA and further on to the summit of then eastward via Sydalen and the ridge and up to the summit. Risskaret. Continue westward back to Rise. Return the same way. Skata is a chieftain among the up the incline to Lemtinden and Length: Skata via Gluntvatnet Vesterålen mountains; with its Vesterliskaret. Then head south Alternative route via is approx. 10 km; via Lemtin- three-edged formation, it has to a height of 451 m and along Gluntvatnet den approx. 12 km. an identical appearance from the ridge to the top of Skata. From the car park, follow the Time: 4-8 hours, depending on all sides. It takes one long day Follow the same route back, good trail to the left and eventu- your choice of route and hiking to climb 736-metre-tall Skata, or you can go south along the ally the tractor road to the right tempo but you will be rewarded with a ridge to Forsvasstinden. From on the southern side of Rishat- beautiful view of the mountains there down to the ridge toward ten up towards Gluntvatnet, GPS starting point: and fjords of Vesterålen. the southeast and then south- which you will pass on your X - coordinate: 0508895 / Y - coordinate: Start from the car park sign 7613840 (UTM zone 33W) ward out to the uplands east of right side. Check your compass on Rv 82 south of Rishøgda. GPS summit point: Fors Lake. Further south, fol- at height 380 northeast of the Park your car at the gate and X - coordinate: 0505370 / Y - coordinate: low the ridge east of Forsvass- lake, and then proceed to height follow the trail up through Ris- 7616066 (UTM zone 33W) beken to a height of 226 m and 451. Follow the good trail along dalen to the right of Risvatnet Marked trail: not marked, good trail SORTLAND MUNICIPALITY – MORE RECOMMENDED ROUTES, SEE «PÅ TUR I VESTERÅLEN» (ONLY IN NORWEGIAN). Skata

Mikkeltinden(594) Forsvasstinden Stortinden (609)

Forsvassvatnet Lemtinden (452)

Rishatten (403) Sydalen

Risvatnet

Risdalen

Stokmarknes Sortland Strandheia / Kvalsaukan / Osvolldalen

Photo: Willy Vestå

Farther inside Osvolldalen, there through the valley several hundred is a fi ne bathing area in the inner metres. There is a fi ne camping site section of Osvollvatnet. Here you on the tip of the promontory where will fi nd a car park, toilet, changing the river curves and begins to run room and fi shing pier for wheel- northward. When the water fl ows chair users. Along Osvollelva there high, the river can be paddled from are many idyllic spots. One of the this point and almost down to the Photo: Willy Vestå fi nest of these is Stornesan, where national road. the river reverses and runs inward

STRANDHEIA and the settlement. Return the KVALSAUKTINDEN somewhat diffi cult and steep but Turn off from Rv 85 at the cross- same way. From Strandheia, you can con- offers the possibility to enjoy road to Osvolldalen (signposted), Distances: Strandheia approx. 8 tinue towards Kvalsauktinden, a Osvolldalen, with one of Veste- about 5 km south of the Sortland km. Strandheia and Kvalsauktin- breezy and vigorous trip. Follow rålen’s best fi shing and bathing bridge. Follow the gravel road to den in a single round-trip: about the trail eastward from Strandheia lakes, adapted for wheelchair the lay-by on the left side a short 313 km. along the ridge and down towards users and prams. There is also a distance before the power sta- Time: Strandheia 3-5 hours. the valley fl oor until you reach bathing house on the sandy beach tion. You may park in this lay-by, Strandheia and Kvalsauktinden height 500. Here you will pass a at the point where the tributary signposted Strandheia at the be- together 5-8 timer. couple of small gullies before the fl ows into the lake. You can pur- ginning of the forest road. Then GPS startpt X – coordinate (parkpl): route becomes steeper towards chase a fi shing licence at the Esso follow the forest road to 260 mas, 0520042/ Y - coordinate: 7619017 the northeast; the trail is well de- station in Sigerfjord. Osvolldalen cross the stream and then follow (UTM zone 33W) veloped all the way to the top of also boasts an interesting his- the good, visible trail all the way GPS summit point: (Strandheia): Kvalsauktinden (767 mas). tory of settlement dating from the to the summit. The trail is sign- X - coordinate: 0520910 / Y - coordinate: Return the same way, or choose 1800s – described in more detail 7621223 (UTM zone 33W) posted at various points along the this alternative: hike eastward in the series «Encounter with GPS summit point: Kvalsauktinden): Vesterålen». ascent. From the summit (647 X - coordinate: 0522475 / Y - coordinate: along Kvalsauktinden’s windy mas), you can enjoy a wonder- 7622408 (UTM zone 33W) ridge and descend to a height of ful view in three directions out Marked trail: not marked, good trail 580 and on down along Store- towards the ocean and mountains Level of diffi culty: medium lvdalen. This alternative is SORTLAND MUNICIPALITY – MORE RECOMMENDED ROUTES, SEE «PÅ TUR I VESTERÅLEN» (ONLY IN NORWEGIAN). Kvalsauktinden Strandheia

Bjørndalen

Bjørnlia

Reppstrenglia Osvollvatnet

Litjheia Storlia

Hola Osvolldalen

Sortland Osvoll DRONNINGRUTA is a ta». The route is rated as quite Terrain varied terrain makes this an marked hiking trail 15 km in challenging. Normal walking The trip along the shoreline exciting hike. In addition, both length – a round-trip along time is around 5-8 hours, de- runs partially through bogs the starting and ending points the shoreline and over the pending on your physical con- and grassy areas and can be are special sights. Nyksund is mountain between Nyksund dition and the length of breaks wet. There is a well trodden an old, abandoned fi shing vil- and Stø. The starting point you take – in other words, a sheep path up the mountain- lage that has been resurrected and ending point can be to or rather strenuous trip. side; at the summit the ter- and is full of life after artists from either destination; it is rain is stony, with heather and and tour operators have moved up to you whether you want to Description of the route hard walking surface. There in and restored the village. Stø hike the beach or the mountain The highest point is Finngam- are steep sections from both is a charming, working fi shing route fi rst. This is a trip for hik- heia (448 mas), where there sides up the mountain. Some village with bustling activity ers in relatively good physical was a Sami settlement in the sections are made secure with year round. condition. Certain parts may 1600s. The trail is marked ropes. seem challenging in terms of with the hiking association’s heights. This is the route that Ts. There are no streams in the Attractions Queen Sonja enjoyed so much mountains, so be sure to take There are many fi ne experi- in 1994, and which was there- along enough liquids to drink. ences to be had. Not only is the after called the «Dronningru- panorama excellent, but the

ØKSNES MUNICIPALITY – MORE RECOMMENDED ROUTES, SEE «PÅ TUR I VESTERÅLEN» (ONLY IN NORWEGIAN)). Stø

Nyksund

NYKSUND was one of the moved to Myre, helped by gov- below on the other. We might racks by the Hulderstein, Sami largest fi shing villages in Vest- ernment relocation subsidies. also mention that the old gravel gravesites in Kråknesura, the erålen around the turn of the Nyksund is distinguished road represents a timeline, in- monument raised to the mem- previous century. In 1900, the from other fi shing villages by cluding preserved traces of hu- ory of local sea rescue hero place had 127 permanent resi- its special architecture. During man settlement dating all the Torstein Reinholdsen, and Sami dents, but during the winter the 1980s, the ghost town by the way back to the Iron Age. Along dwelling features and graves at fi shing season, the population open ocean awakened with new the 9-km-long road, you can Skåltofta and Rødneset. increased by several hundred. life, fi rst through an interna- enjoy the view of fi sh-drying During one year there were tional youth project, and later some 750 visiting fi shermen us- as a result of active culture and ing Nyksund as a port for their tourism development. Today open Nordland boats. However, the village has many perma- the advent of larger fi shing nent residents who operate art boats made the harbour unsuit- galleries, overnight facilities, ably narrow, and the village was restaurants and cafés, as well as gradually depopulated. In 1973, ocean-based activities. the school was closed, and two The last portion of the road years later, the last permanent before Nyksund is an experi- residents moved away. Almost ence in itself; it winds alongside vertical mountain walls on the all of the residents of Nyksund Photo: Alf Oxem one side, and the open ocean far IN ØKSNES A NEW COASTAL TRACK IS PLANNED (2012) Snykolla

Skreddalen Gossen (106)

Myre

Klubbneset

SNYKOLLA (763 mas) is Åsen at the bottom of the fjord. GOSSEN / GOSSESANDEN you can choose whether you want Langøya’s tallest mountain, From the summit, you follow A much used hiking area on Som- to continue down to Gossesanden, but it is accessible for trekkers the steep, grassy slope directly marøya is Gossen. Park at the large a lovely sandy beach on the open wanting a challenge. From the east of the summit. At the lower car park on Heimsommarøyveien, ocean, or whether you want to take car park at the old gravel road edge of the slope you will en- just before you drive down to Bak- the trip up to the summit of Gos- on the fjord side of the main counter a challenging area with sommarøya. Follow the road in the sen. Another possibility is to follow road, you continue about 50 large stone boulders and rocky direction of Myre to the crossroad the path westward to Sjåneset and metres along the national road surface. Continue along, passing between Heimsommarøyveien and walk the shoreline back via Gos- towards Steinland. Proceed between some small lakes, in a Gossenveien. Follow the trail up sesanden. The terrain is easy and east up through a small hollow southerly direction. Follow the between Lillegossen and Gossen well suited for families with young towards the closest ridge of «gully» down to the village. (with the mast). In the «valley» children. Snykolla. Follow the ridge to From Åsen, you then follow the the summit; use the same route main road back to your starting to come back down. point, about 4 km. A moderately Note: Before you reach the challenging trip to the summit. main ridge, there are a few areas GPS starting point: with steep inclines. You won’t X - coordinate: 0505852 / Y - coordinate: 7636678 (UTM zone 33W) need mountain-climbing gear, GPS summit point: but good footwear is a must. X - coordinate: 0507772 / Y - coordinate: If you want to make a longer 7636535 (UTM zone 33W) round-trip out of your day, we Marked trail: small cairns mark the recommend doing the descent in trails from the treeline to the top the southerly direction towards Level of diffi culty: medium

IN ØKSNES A NEW COASTAL TRACK IS PLANNED (2012) Skipet Salen

Myrtinden Høydalsheia

Høydalen

Bjørkeskogen Trettendalsvatnet

MYRTINDEN / Bjørkeskogen is partially adapt- HØYDALSHEIA / fore the summit, you will pass ed for wheelchair users. The way the characteristic rock overhang BJØRKESKOGEN into the area is from the car park SKIPET that has given the mountain its Myrtinden is centrally located at the upper end of Svartbakken. The most spectacular trip near name – Skipet (612 mas). between the town «Myre» and After passing through Bjørke- the centre of the town is up to the If you want a shorter trip, there the open ocean. And also be- skogen, you will climb up the top of Skipet via Høydalsheia. is a trim box at the waterworks. cause of its very striking appear- sledding hill. At the top of this Parts of this route are challeng- Many hikers combine this route ance. hill, you can set your course ing and windy, with a fantastic with a trip up to Trenndals Lake. Begin the trip at the car park for Kammen, the lower part of view out towards the open ocean Both can be reached by follow- 400 m after you turn off towards the ridge leading to the sum- on one side and a panorama of ing the gravel path from the car Nyksund. Follow a well beaten mit. From the lower part of the the municipality on the other. park at Høydalsveien. trail leading west. After a short forested area, follow the distinct Begin the trip at the car park time you will meet the devel- trail up to Kammen and continue 400 m after you turn off to- oped tourist trail which takes north up the ridge to Myrtinden wards Nyksund. Cross the road you to Bjørkeskogen – an out- (350 mas). and follow the gravel trail east; door recreation area with a natu- bear north at the upper edge of ral playground, lean-to shelters, the quarry and follow a welltrav- GPS starting point: GPS starting point: an open fi re site and information elled trail through the forest and X - coordinate:0503625 / Y - coordinate: X - coordinate: 0503625 / Y - coordinate: boards describing plants, birds up to Høydalsheia. From here, 7646261 (UTM zone 33W) 7646261 (UTM zone 33W) and animals. The area was devel- a good trail leads you along the GPS summit point: GPS summit point: X - coordinate: 0501969 / Y - coordinate: oped by parents, pupils and staff X - coordinate: 0502599 / Y - coordinate: entire crest until you arrive at the 7648631 (UTM zone 33W) members of Myre School and is 7645907 (UTM zone 33W) summit. This stretch of the trip is frequently used by school pupils windy, and you will have some Marked trail: not marked, good trail Marked trail: not marked, good trail Level of diffi culty: medium and kindergarteners in the area. Level of diffi culty: easy steep sections to climb. Just be- IN ØKSNES A NEW COASTAL TRACK IS PLANNED (2012) Photo: Ståle Jenssen

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Publisher: © Vesterålen friluftsråd * Print: K. Nordahls Trykkeri AS * Cover photo: Alf Oxem. Aerial photos: Trond Løkke / Vesterålen Turlag, see the book «På tur i Vesterålen» for more aerial photos and tour suggestions. Photos: Alf Oxem, Willy Vestå, Bjørn Eide, Einar Roger Pettersen, Ragnhild Gundersen, Ståle Jenssen, Remi Vangen, Bente Iren Myhre, Ivar Steiro, A. Berthinussen, Andøy Friluftssenter, Offersøy Feriesenter. * Reproduction of content is permitted only by appointment, or if it is authorized by law. We take no responsibility for errors or changes subsequent to printing.