VIKASTAKKEN TRAVERSE

Bergefjell and Vikastakken are the highest mountains near Forsand. Together, the two peaks form a stunning mountain ridge ideal for an unforgettable hike providing views in all directions. Hike from A to B and end or start your experience with a bike ride along the Lysefjord. 

This hike is suitable for those who have done some good hikes before. It is one long uphill to Bergefjell, but the views along the way are rewarding. Start at the playing ground across the street from Forsand Bedehus. Take a good breathe, the ascent begins immediately. The first 2.5 km, you will have to bridge 600 meters of elevation gain. Take you time, as there is a lot to see when looking back down on Forand and Oanes – with the Høgsfjord in the background. Parts of the trail go through forest, before you cross the treeline and hike mostly on bedrock. Well up, you get panoramic views that take you all the way to the open ocean.

If the whole traverse seems too demanding when you have reached Bergefjell, it is recommended to return the same way you came. However, past Bergefjell, the terrain becomes more gentle. The trail winds past three beautiful mountain lakes: Svartalivatn, Stemmavatn and Stølsvanet, before the last ascent up to Vikastakken and its characteristic peak.

Up here, you get new views in all directions: the Lysefjord and Jørpeland in the distance. The Høgsfjord with islands and islets – far behind you’ll be able to see Stavanger on clear days. In the east, characteristic Mount Frafjordhatten catches the eye. And of course Mount Neverdalsfjellet with icon Preikestolen.

The trail down starts gentle, before becoming gradually steeper. It winds its way between trees, rocks and heather and follows the edge of a moraine ridge for a short distance. At Vikastølen, the terrain is quite flat. The well-maintained cabin (not open for accommodation) is located in a clearing in the woods, and marks the start of the steep part of the descent. The trail dives down through large pine forests where you can glimpse the Lysefjord between the trees. The hike ends at the road between Vika and Dørvika.

Source: ut.no

Difficulty Demanding
Distance 9 km (A→B)
Duration 5-6 hours
Total elevation gain 900m
Season Mai – Oktober
Link to hiking map coming soon
GPX-file Vikastakken

 

Driving directions and Parking

We recommend to start the hike in Forsand. Park at the play ground in Bergebakkane, 2 km from Forsand quay, 5 km from Oanes quay, 16 km from Jørpeland.

If you park 1 car at either end of the trail, it is recommended to park at Dørvika, or a suitable and safe place along fv 496.

As there are few parking options at Dørvika, it is recommended to use a bicycle to get back to Forsand. Check with Explore Lysefjorden in Forsand for bike rental.

Public Transportation

For information regarding the ferries operating in the Lysefjord, click here.

Kolumbus – local bus 120
Between Jørpeland and Forsand. Take the bus to get to the trailhead. Stop at Forsand Bedehus.

Nearest Accommodation

Lysefjorden Marina

Fossanmoen

Haukali 333

Lysefjorden Hyttegrend

Gøysa Gard

Landa Park

Lysefjord Code of Conduct

  • Plan your trip according to your ability and current conditions. Pay attention to the weather – listen to local advice.

  • Be prepared and bring necessary equipment, including good footwear, rain/wind proof clothing, a torch, hat, gloves and an extra set of warm clothes. Expect the unexpected. Bring a backpack with a packed lunch, extra snacks and water.

  • Leave no trace. Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints. Behave responsible, taking other hikers’ and nature’s wellbeing into account.

  • Bring a map. Follow marked trails and pay attention to signs and information boards along the way. If you lose your way, be on the lookout for cairns of rocks or red Ts. Please do not make your own cairns.

  • You hike at your own risk. Turn around in time.

  • In case of an emergency – call 113.