Hikes in Senja - Lenvik kommune

Hikes in Senja

View from Breitind©BSLeikvika©HPPSenja på langs©EMThe adventurer in SenjaLangdalsvatnet©JOG2Hike in Senjain peaceful inner calmwith a keen eye, and open mind -and amazement -between the blue yonder andwide open spacesSenja is full of contrasts,most of which are close byIt’s never far from the coast to the mountains in Senja,from steep mountains between narrow fjordsto birch-covered mountainsides and pine ridges,from lowland and waste level perennials,to high mountains and crustose lichens underwell worn hiking boots.Hiking in Senja is hiking in an adventure.Senja is the adventure island.The hiker is the explorer, the adventurer.

Northern Wheatear©JOGStormoa©RSÅnderdalen©EMHiking in Senja©EMFirstly, a bit about being a hikerFor the hiker, it is often about being prepared for the different challengesyou may encounter and to remain within your own physical limitations. Itis important not to set off on long, demanding hikes if this exceeds yourcurrent fitness level. The recommendations about grading of levels forthe various hikes are designed for information purposes only as differenthikers have different perceptions of what makes a hike demanding.Always ensure you are properly equipped for your hike. A map andcompass are necessary on longer hikes when you are crossing baremountains and leaving marked trails. Cold weather, rain and mist arepossible regardless of the season, and you will also encounter differentsurfaces, ranging from dry and stony to marshland. Consequently, it’simportant to choose clothing and footwear so you are equipped forchanging conditions. The longer the hike, the more important it is to takesuch things into consideration.Happy hiking!3

Natur på Senja - fra hav til havSenja – from coast to coastWe often say that the nature on the island of Senja is a cross-section of Norwegian nature – a Norway in miniature. On the “inner coast”and in the south, you will discover a gentle landscape with marshland, pine forests and forested hillsides. When we cross Senja towardsthe west and north, the landscape rises through mountain birch forests, crossing tree-less mountains and barren, high mountains beforeit drops suddenly down towards the open sea on the “outer coast”. The tree-line is at about 300 m above sea level.The road from Gryllefjord to Botnhamn twists and turns along the outer coast of Senja and is part of the National Tourist Routes.THE LANDSCAPEGeology and mountainsThe bedrock on Senja is mostly granite, which wasformed about 1.7 billion years ago. Over the past twomillion years, there have been about 40 ice ages, whichhas left its mark on the island. In many places, we canfind glacial rocks, which remained when the glaciers receded.We can find stalactites along the beaches, whichoften lay directly on the clayish bottom, indicating theyoriginate from thrust sheets.Around 15,000 years ago, most of Senja was coveredby a 300 m thick ice cap. Owing to the weight of theice, the landscape was pressed down about 100 m inrelation to today’s level. The ice receded in legs creatingshorelines and pebble beaches at different levels. Theseshorelines remain clear in many locations in Senja, bothon the outer and inner coasts.While naked bedrock dominates in the mountains, thedepressions and valleys are covered by deposits leftfrom the glaciers. The sand dunes and beach ridges(grass-covered sand dunes) in the Ersfjorden enable usto study the storm surge climate through the past 7000years. There are also areas in Senja with many giantkettles.4With many of the mountains rising directly from sealevel, many of Senja’s mountains give a majestic impression.Senja’s highest mountain is Mount Breitind atthe head of the Mefjorden, which is 985 m above sealevel. Mount Kvænan in ÅnderdalenLakes and watercoursesTypical of the variations on the island of Senja is theabundance of lakes, rivers, waterfalls and rapids. Mostof the watercourses are situated on Senja’s inner coast,and many offer good conditions for freshwaterfishing and other nature-based activities. Small andmedium-sized rivers create beautiful waterfalls downthe mountainsides. The largest waterfall visible from theroad is created by a 60 m high waterfall in the innermostpart of the Gjeskadalen valley.FLORASenja’s vegetation covers the range between clearoceanic features with coniferous forest to typical Arcticfeatures above the climatic tree-line. We also find thewhole spectrum of marshes from “bottomless” marshsumps and well-developed ground marshes to shallowmarshes that cover the countryside and damp forestfloors. The marshes or bogs have both direct and indirectsignificance for the biodiversity, and many speciesare connected to the marshes.The virgin forest of coastal pine in the ÅnderdalenNational Park is rare for Northern Norway. You can alsodiscover areas of relatively untouched and large birchforests in and adjacent to the national park.As a result of the raising of the land level after the lastIce Age, you will find earlier sea floors in the valleyswhere some calcium-demanding species grow.FAUNAAs Senja is an island, there are not so many mammalspecies here. The only large mammals are the domesticatedreindeer and moose. Predatory animals includethe red fox, stoat, mink and otter. The most commonsmall rodents are found here and some years there arelarge quantities of lemming. The only amphibian speciesfound here is the common frog.Trout and Arctic char are found in the rivers, streamsand lakes. The three-spined stickleback is found in someplaces, while salmon, sea trout and sea char are foundin some watercourses.Such landscape and vegetation leaves its mark on theflora and is also of significance for the birdlife. Fromthe seashore to the mountains of Senja, you will findthe bird species you would expect to find in other partsof Troms County. Along the hiking trails, you may encounterseveral of our birds of prey, but also the mostcommon owl species. There are also many species ofducks, wading birds and passerine birds.Ånderdalen Natonal park©EMView from Første Svanfjell©JOG

Veidmannsfjorden©HPP5

NdecaTrails in SenjaLEGSA) Lake Lysvatnet – Trondalen valleyB) Trondalen valley – LakeBumannsvatnetC) Lake Bumannsvatnet – LakeÅndervatnetD) Lake Åndervatnet – OlaheimenCONNECTING TRAILS1) Svartholla – Lake Lysvatnet2) Sandbakken – Heggtuva3) Gryllefjordbotn – Leirdalen valley4) Gjeska – Lake Sør Kapervatnet5) Tranøybotn – Lake ÅndervatnetYou will find descriptions of the othertrails (marked a-t) on pages 16-18.As detailed routes are not provided inthis brochure, the map cannot be usedinstead of a topographic hiking map.sjimnkilo864f3DgCÅnderdalenNational ParkB8608625hph86b1A2qtqr862861Finnsnes6

Senja på langsThe Senja på langs (Senja from north to south) route has for many years been popularamong hikers wanting to see and experience Senja’s nature. The terrain and nature isextremely varied, providing a wide variety of experiences. The hike from the slightlyrugged and wild nature of North Senja to the gentle landscape of South Senja provides across-section of Norwegian nature.Trondalen©JOGThe trail goes from the power station at LakeLysvatnet in the north to Olaheimen, whichis between the lakes of Store Bunkevatn andRødsandvatnet, in the south. The total distanceis around 70 km, and the trail is indicatedby red markers. Owing to the topography,hikers embarking on the full route are highlyrecommended to start in the north and end in thesouth.The level of the trail is varied. However, theterrain is not regarded as rough in some places,even though there are some isolated steepsections along one of the legs. Protectiveequipment is not required and anyone with anormal level of fitness can complete all the legs.In this description, we have divided the routeup into several independent legs, where thestart and finish points can be reached from theroad. It is possible to complete the legs as dayhikes, although at least one overnight stop isrecommended for the longest legs.Senja Turlag (hiking association) recommends thefollowing day legs for hikers wanting to completethe entire route in one go:Day 1: Power station at Lake – Senjabu cabinDay 2: Senjabu cabin – Lake Sør KapervatnetDay 3: Lake Sør Kapervatnet – Lake LutvatnetDay 4: Lake Lutvatnet – Olaheimen, “Thecharming leg”The hiking association’s recommended legs arebased on the accommodation options and campsites. The Senjabu cabin is used on the first nightso hikers can sleep inside, while Lake Kapervatnetand Lake Lutvatnet are recommended becausemany good tent sites are available in these areas.You will discover many lakes en route which areideal for fishing, so we advise hikers who are alsokeen fishermen to bring their fishing gear withthem.7

A) Power station atLysvatnet – TrondalselvaApprox. 20 kmB) Trondalselva –Bumannsvatnet inKaperdalen Approx. 13 kmThe legsSenja på langsHighest point: Heggtuva approx. 320 m abovesea levelView points (main route): Heggtuva – view ofthe Nord Heggdalen valley to the east and SørHeggdalen valley to the westView point (alternative route): Bratthaugen (731m above sea level) – view towards Straumsbotn,Svandalen, Lars-Larsadalen and GrasmyrLevel: Easy terrain, mostly in forest with a gradualclimb up Heggtuva. Some virgin forest andfern-dominated areas in the far west of the SørHeggdalen valleyCampsite/accommodation: Hut in the Heggdalenvalley after about 5 kmThe trail goes directly south about a kilometre southof the power station by the Helvetesfossen waterfallbefore it wings to the west through the NordHeggdalenValley and follows the valley on the northernside of the Heggelva River. Lake Heggvatnet, which issituated about halfway into the valley, is a good lake forfishing with stocks of Arctic char. About 5 km from thepower station is a hut owned by Statskog and run byIndre Senja Jeger- og fiskeforening (hunting and fishingsociety). It is open for accommodation and has basiccooking facilities, cutlery, crockery etc. and mattresses inbunk beds. The trail through the Nord Heggdalen valleyis easy forest terrain.From Heggtuva, you may choose between two routes.The main route follows the Sør Heggdalen valley ineasy terrain until you reach the Trondalselva River. Thealternative route goes from Heggtuva across Bratthaugenand down to Senja Turlag’s Senjabu Cabin inthe Svandalen valley. Most of this route is situated intree-less mountains. This is a medium level route. Thesteepest part is from Heggtuva up to the highest pointof Bratthaugen. This route is unmarked, but it is easy tofind as you can at all times follow the mountain ridgebetween the summit and the Svandalen valley. Thedistance from Heggtuva to Senjabu is about 8 km.8Leirdalen©JOGHighest point: Approx. 400 m above sea level atthe divide between the Trondalen and LeirdalenvalleysView points: From the Leirdalen valley we havea good view of Lake Store Ostervatnet and MountKeipen (661 m above sea level). To the west, wecan see Mount Skipstind (715 m above sea level)and to the north-west Mount Skreflåget (869 mabove sea level).Level: Medium, some dense forest in theLeirdalen valleyCampsite/accommodation: Senja Turlag’sSenjabu cabin on FV86. There are good sites forpitching tents in the Trondalen and Leirdalenvalleys.This route follows the Trondalen valley in easy forestterrain. The trail is well marked in the section betweenTrondalen and the Senjabu cabin.The trail across the divide between the Trondalen andLeirdalen valleys crosses dry and easy terrain. Thetrail through the Leirdalen valley continues at altitudethrough forest terrain on the eastern side of the valley.Between Leirdalen and Lake Bumannsvatnet, the routefollows the southern side of Lake Langdalsvatnet.In the Leirdalen valley, there are also good campingsites by the river pool at the waterfall flowing downfrom Lake Leirskarvatnet.Mt Keipen with Fjordgård and Husøy in the background©GG

C) Bumannsvatnet – ÅndervatnetApprox. 17 kmD) Åndervatnet –OlaheimenApprox. 24 kmThe legsSenja på langsFrom Istinden©TRAlternative route Lake Bumannsvatnet – Lake SørKapervatnet – Gjeska (connecting trail 4). Instead of continuing from the ford across theÅnderelva River to Olaheimen, you can hike down toTranøybotn (connecting trail 5).Highest point: Approx. 800 m above sea level inthe pass below Mount Istind.View points: Short detour to Mount Istind (851 mabove sea level)The steepest sections along the entire Senja på langsroute are on this leg. The longest ascent is betweenthe Kaperdalen valley (364 m above sea level) and theroute’s highest point below the summit of Mount Istind(about 800 m above sea level). The climb is somewhateasier if you choose to follow the route that passes overthe road tunnel instead of straight up the mountainside.The view from the summit of Mount Istind (851m above sea level) is exceptional, and we highlyrecommend making a detour to the top. In the passbeneath Mount Istind, you cross the boundary ofÅnderdalen National Park. The section down towardsLake Rundvatnet in the Helvetesdalen valley issomewhat steeper, but much shorter. It can be slipperyhere in wet weather.The section between Lake Bumannsvatnet and LakeKapervatnet (214 m above sea level) can be extremelydemanding in winter as hard chasms often form in themountainsides here.The trail between Lake Sør Kapervatnet and LakeRundvatnet (244 m above sea level) in the Helvetesdalvalley goes through easy terrain. Part of the trail along10Helvetesdalen©EMLevel: Steep up from FV243. Somewhat roughon the highest parts of the trail and can also beextremely exposed. Pay particular attention in fog!Keep away from the canyon in the Kaperelva Riverdown towards Lake Åndervatnet. There is somedense undergrowth along Lake Kapervatnet.Campsite/accommodation: There is a gapahuk(rustic shelter) with firewood on the northern sideof the river near the ford and a gamme (turf hut)on the southern side of Lake Åndervatnet.Lake Kapervatnet is through thick scrub. The sectionof the trail between Lake Kapervatnet and LakeÅndervatnet, along the banks of the Kaperelva River,you encounter the ancient coastal pine forest for whichthe national park is known.The river between Lake Sør Kapervatnet and LakeÅndervatnet cuts into the mountain creating a deepcanyon.The trail follows along the northern and eastern sides ofLake Åndervatnet (110 m above sea level).It is possible to wade across the river at the outlet ofLake Åndervatnet. However, during flooding you needto follow the river about 1 km downstream to a moresuitable ford where the river is wide and shallow. Thisford is well marked.On the southern side of Lake Åndervatnet, Statskoghas a gamme (turf hut) sleeping four. This turf hut isalways open and contains the most essential cookingequipment. The area between the Ånderelva River andthe turf hut is boggy.Lutvatnet©KNHighest point: Approx. 500 m above sea level in thepass between Mount Blåfjellet and Mount Jøvikfjellet,and 475 m above sea level between Lake Reinlivatnetand the Finnskaret PassView points: From an altitude of 475 m above sealevel, there is a view of the Selfjord to the north-west,Lake Bunkevatnet to the west and towards Lemmingværand the Halvard Islands to the south-west. Fromthe summit of Mount Blåfjell, you can see the inlandmountains and the island of Tranøya.Level: Easy, mostly in mountain terrainCampsite/accommodation: There is a gapahuk (rusticshelter) at the southern end of Lake Åndervatnetand a gamme (turf hut) on the southern side of LakeÅndervatnet. There is a nice rest area at an altitude of475 m above sea level and good campsites by LakeLutvatnet, which Senja Turlag (hiking association) usesas a campsite on all its organised overnight hikes.This is the longest leg of the Senja på langs route. Thetrail ends in the Ånderdalen valley via the Holmedalenvalley. The trail between Lake Selfjordvatnet and LakeLutvatnet (274 m above sea level) passes throughsparse mixed forest. Between Lake Lutvatnet and LakeReinlivaten, you leave Ånderdalen National Park.South-west of Lake Reinlivatnet is the hike’shighest point of this leg, which is 475 m above sealevel. We recommend taking a good rest to savour theview of the sea, Lemmingvær and the Halvard Islands.From the 475 m altitude to Olaheimen, the trail goesalong the southern side of Lake Store Bunkevatn ineasy terrain with open birch forest.Up from Kaperdalen to Istinden©EM

Ånderdalen©HPPÅnderdalen©HPP11

1) Svartholla -Power station atLysvatnetApprox. 15 km2) Sandbakken -HeggtuvaApprox. 13 km3) Gryllefjordbotn -LeirdalenApprox. 11 kmConnectingtrailsHighest point: Approx. 530 m above sea level in thepass between Mount Breitind and Mount KjørakeisenView points: The pass by Lake HelvetesvannetLevel: The ascent from Svartholla is steep andsomewhat rough (stones)Highest point: Approx. 530 m above sea level inthe pass between Mount Bratthaugen and MountSnøfjelletView points: Heggtuva – view of the NordHeggdalen valley to the east and Sør Heggdalenvalley to the westLevel: EasyHighest point: Approx. 380 m above sea levelView points: The pass between the Skredflåget andSkipstind mountainsLevel: It is quite steep for the first two-thirds of theascent..The view from Breitind©BSParking: by the Svartholl tunnel on FV 862There is a relatively steep ascent up to Lake Helvetesvannet,which takes 30 – 40 minutes. The trail is well marked,although it is relatively stony and rough. When you reach thepass, take the trail to the left and follow the ridge towardsKjørakeisen, then turn off and walk towards Lake Breitindvannet.Cross the river and follow the left side of Lake Breitindvannetup to the pass between Mount Breitind and Kjørakeisen.You have now reached the trail’s highest point. Fromthis point, you have the option of climbing Senja’s highestmountain, Breitind. Continue down to the various Salingvatnlakes, sticking to the left hand side. This area contains somemarshland. Continue along the banks of the Salingselva Riverto the southern shores of Lake Mellavatnet.Follow the good trail on the right hand side of Lake Mellavatnet,continue past Lake Lappegamvatnet and down toRørgata. This marks the start of the Senja på langs trail. If youcontinue into the Heggedalen valley, can you stay overnightin a nice cabin. This is an ideal day hike.12Lars-Larsadalen©SSStarting point: by Sandbakken Chapel right above Grasmyrskogen.There is a good car park right beside the chapel.If this car park is full owing to a religious event, there isadequate space beside the adjacent graveyard. Follow themarked trail westwards about 3 km to gapahuk (rustic shelters)near tofts of ancient Sami settlements. Continue northwestand cross the largest area of marshland on the hikedown towards the Tømmerelva River, which you cross here.From the Tømmerelva River, you continue northwards up“Bulderbakkan” along the banks of the Bulderbakkelva riverin slightly undulating terrain. When you reach the tree-line,continue westwards passing the southern side of Lake Kjeldevatnanand continuing north-west up the Lars Larsadalenvalley. Keep going eastwards after the pass and head downtowards Heggtuva.Gryllefjord©HPPStarting point: by the RV 86 in the Gryllefjordbotn valley.There is a steep climb from Gryllefjordbotn up the hillside.Follow the first access road up towards the waterworks tunnel.From there, follow the marked trail towards the summit.There is a fantastic view from here towards Gryllefjord andBarogen.The trail follows the northern shore of Lake Botnvatnet. Copperore has been discovered in the area near the lake. Fromhere it is a nice and easy descent towards the various Ostervatnlakes. After a while, you will join the Senja på langs trail.View from Segla in Mefjorden©RS

4) Gjeska –Sør-KapervatnetApprox. 6.5 km5) Tranøybotn -ÅndervatnetApprox. 6 kmConnectingtrailsHighest point: Approx. 420 m above sea level inthe Sørkaperskaret PassView points: From the mountainside up towardsthe passLevel: The first part of the climb from Gjeska is a bitsteep, but not particularly demandingAttractions/Cultural monuments: Tofts of houses,turf huts and boathouses in Gjeska and clearlyvisible boat landing sites. This place is signposted aspart of the cultural heritage trail in Torsken.Highest point: Approx. 105 m above sea level atÅndervatnet.Level: Very easy. Simple foot bridges have beenbuilt in the moors.Attractions/Cultural monuments: Skoglia, thelast settlement in the Ånderdalen valley. TheVardnesmyra Nature Reserve is situated about 1km from the hiking trail.Campsite/accommodation: There is a gapahuk(rustic shelter) with firewood on the northern sideof the river near the ford and a gamme (turf hut)on the southern side of Lake Åndervatnet.Finnes©TRSør-Kapervatnet©HPP14The view towards Okshornan©RSStarting point: by the FV243 in GjeskaFollow the trail up the mountainside on the northern side ofthe Tverrelva River. The trail ascends a bit until you reach thehighest point. From here you get a great view of the fjordsand mountains on the outer coast of Senja, including MountKvænan (Senja’s third highest mountain, 964 m above sealevel), Mount Henrikshovve (854 m above sea level), and fromthe top of the pass Mount Kollkjerka (653 m above sea level)to the south.The hillside surrounding Lake Kapervatnet is considerablygentler. This is where you join the main Senja på langs trail.The hiking trail generally follows an old road between theouter coast and the inner coast. The remainder of the roadcontinues down to Lake Åndervatnet and from there on toTranøybotn. This entire leg is around 19 km and is possible tocomplete in one day.A similar old road turns off to the south at the firstplateau across from the county road and goes along thesouthern side of Kollkjerka, along the shores of LakeHenrikhovvatnet (people used to row across the lakeby canoe) and on towards the Ånderdalen valley andTranøybotn. This trail is overgrown in many places and as aresult is difficult to find.Ånderdalen©HPPStarting point: by the FV860 in TranøybotnThis trail goes through easy terrain and crosses the Vardnesmyramarshlands, although simple foot bridges have beenconstructed in most places. This is the most common route toenter the Ånderdalen National Park. West of the Vardnesmyramarshlands, you cross the boundary into the national park.A coffee break on Mt Dalfjellet (644 m above sea level)©HPP

Other hiking routes in SenjaThere are far more hiking trails on offer in Senja than those outlined in this brochure. The trails varyin terms of both length and level. Most are easy hikes, which can be completed in an afternoonand several are ideal as family excursions. Many of the trails are built around the local history andare often linked to stories or legends about cultural monuments. For more information about thevarious hiking and cultural heritage trails, contact the customer service department of the localmunicipal council or the Tourist Information Office in Finnsnes. The duration of the hikes is a recommendedminimum to experience the attractions en route.Information is provided about which national and county roads you can take from the intersectionnear the Gisund Bridge at Silsand to find the various starting points.a) Astridtind NStartFootball field in BotnhamnDestination AstridtindDuration Distance Elevation3.5 – 5 hours 14 km return 742 mFV861 – FV862 National Tourist RouteAmple car parking. Cultural history/legend. There is apost box on the summit of Mount Storskoghaugenb) Keipen and Barden NStartMefjordeidet near the Ørnfjord TunnelDestination BardenDuration Distance ElevationBarden 5 - 8 hrKeipen 5 - 8 hr167.5 km return10 km return659 m938 mFV861 – FV862 National Tourist Route. Suitable for mostpeople, including children who are keen hikers, but notpeople with a fear of heights. In the evening sun/MidnightSun, there is a spectacular view of the mountain formationNordlandet and the open sea. There is a car park near thestart of the hike.View from Breitinden©BSc) Riven NStartBetween the tunnels to HusøyDestination RivenDuration Distance Elevation1.5 – 2 hours 2.5 km return 389 mGood view of the island of Husøy. Suitable for children.FV861 – FV862 – FV277. Detours from the National touristrouted) Trail network in Mefjordvær NStartLocal museum in MefjordværThe pump house in BjorvikaFootball fieldDestinationRound-trip including DalenDuration Distance ElevationSeveral alternativesTotal about 20 kmKnuten 109 mFV861 -FV862. Detours from the National Tourist Route.Suitable for families, cultural monuments, legends/culturalhistory, view point, lake suitable for swimming, lake suitablefor fishing, Midnight Sun, bonfire sites, rest area adapted forpeople with disabilities near gapahuker (rustic shelters), postbox at Dalen and at the summit of Knuten, car park at thestart of the hikeKnuten, Mefjordvær©BSSteinfjorden©EMe) Fotefar mot Nord - Russehula NStartLocal museum in MefjordværDestination RussehulaDuration Distance ElevationRussehula 1 hrSkøytneset 3 hr3 km7 km20 mFV861 to Stønnesbotn, then FV862 to Mefjordvær.Cultural monuments/legends. Good trail to Russehula,but rough trail on to Skøytneset. Rest area and bonfiresite by Russehula. Giant kettles. Car park at the start ofthe hike. You can follow the trail on to Skøytneset.f) Husfjellet NStartBerg Church, SkalandDestination Myran - Sommardalen – Husfjellet– Strandbyskaret – BøværDuration Distance Elevation3 - 5 hours 7 km 635 mCar park at the church. Post box in the Sommardalen valley.FV86 – FV862. Strandbyskaret Pass: post box. Can also hikedown to Strandby/Trælen.Bøvær: “Kråkeslottet”. Idyllic large beach suitable forswimmingN = This trail is accessible from the National tourist RouteElevation = metres above sea level

North Senja©BSSandsvika©HPPKeipen©BSNord-Senja©BSBaltsfjorden©BSKongsneshaugen©HPPg) Flatneset NStartStraumsnesDestination FlatnesetDuration Distance Elevation5 hours 10 km At sea levelCar parking at the Straumsnes power stationFV86 – FV862 National Tourist Routeh) Roalden NStartBergsbotn or SenjahopenDestination RoallenDuration Distance Elevation6 - 7 hours 7 km return 862 mCultural monuments. Ancient traffic artery. Car parkingby the gravel pit in Bergsbotn or at the cemetery inSenjahopen. Cabins are available for hire at the lakesStore and Lille Hestevatn. Phone + 47 997 03 825.FV86 – FV862 National Tourist Routei) Sandsvika NStartBallesvika (or Gryllefjord)Destination SandsvikaDuration Distance Elevation6 - 8 hours 24 km (6 km) return 160 mFV86 – FV862 National Tourist Route. Cultural history.Earlier settlements. Senja’s largest sandy beach,which is suitable for swimming. An alternativeroute is by boat from Gryllefjord to Barbogen andthen hike over the Sandsvikskaret Pass.j) KjerringvikaStartLocal hall at GrunnfarnesDestination KjerringvikaDuration Distance Elevation2 - 3 hours 8 km return 300 mFV86 – FV232 Søndre Torsken cultural route. Culturalmonuments from the Stone Age and Iron Age,ancient settlement and soapstone quarry.k) KongsnesStartGrunnfarnesbotnDestination Kongsneshaugen - KongsnesDuration Distance Elevation3 - 4 hours 7 km return 240 mFV86 – FV232 Søndre Torsken cultural route. Ancientsettlement, abandoned graveyardl) StryaStartGrunnfarnesbotnDestination StryaDuration Distance Elevation2 hours 9 km return Hike is alongthe beachFV86 – FV232. Part of the Søndre Torsken culturalroute. Old storage site for the historic jekt boats.Many historic monuments17

Sjursviktinden©EMKvænan©HPPq) GammelvetenStartVesterfjell/Halvorsli orTorsmo/Senja CampingDestinationGammelvetenDuration Distance Elevation3/4 hours 3.5/7 km return 462 mFV86 – FV232. Summit ascent. The hike to the first Svanfjellmountain is suitable for children. Good views. Ruins from aplane crash by the first Svanfjell mountain. Car parking fromthe “big swing” in the Kaperdalen valleyStrytinden©HPPLeikvika©HPPr) Cultural heritage trail at Mount RubbestadfjelletStartDestinationCattle grid in the Vikadalen valleyCattle grid in the Vikadalen valleyDuration Distance Elevation4 hours 6 km return 436 mFV86 – FV860 – FV225. Loop track. Cultural monuments.Many nature and cultural heritage sites.Gamme (turf hut). Freshwater fishing in LakeVintervannet. Guides available. Suitable for children.ample car parkingm) StrytindenStart KaldfarnesDestination StrytindenDuration Distance Elevation3 - 4 hours 2.5 km return 413 mCultural monuments. FV86 – FV232. Part of theSøndre Torsken cultural routen) Årberg og LeikvikaStartFlakstadvågDestination Årberg/LeikvikaDuration Distance Elevation6 - 8 hours 16 km return 300 mFV86 – FV232 – FV243. Located at the end of theSøndre Torsken cultural route. Cultural monuments,historic trading posto) KvænanStartInner/outer KvænbuktaDestination KvænanDuration Distance Elevation6 - 8 hours 6 km return 964 mLegends. Geology. FV86 – FV232 – FV243. Extremelygood view in all directions from the summitp) The Svanfjell mountainsStartThe Kaperdalen valleyDestination The Svanfjell mountainsDuration Distance Elevation6 - 10 hours 20 km return 898 mFV86 – FV232. Summit ascent. The hike to the first Svanfjellmountain is suitable for children. Good views. Ruinsfrom a plane crash by the first Svanfjell mountain. Carparking from the “big swing” in the Kaperdalen valleys) SjursviktindStartSkrolsvikDestination SjursviktindDuration Distance Elevation5 hours 7.5 km return 837 mFV86 – FV860 – FV221 – municipal road. Summit ascentwith extremely good views of all of the Andsfjord withislands. Suitable for older children. Parking off the municipalroad on the northern side of Skrolsvikt) Ferdselslei to VassulvikStartSkatvikDestination VassulvikDuration Distance Elevation2 hours 4 km return At sea levelFV86 – FV860 – FV225 – FV227. Old transport trail toformer settlement (abandoned in 1960). Car parkingat the turning bay in Skatvik. Good sea fishingfrom the shore18

Protected areas in SenjaMANAGEMENT AND CONTROLOffi ce of the County Governor in Troms,Department of Environmental Protectionwww.fylkesmannen.no, phone + 47 77 64 22 00Statskog Troms, Fjelltjenestenwww.statskog.no, phone +47 77 83 67 00Area Municipality Form of protection Theme Objective of protection©EMEggøya Lenvik Animal protection area birds A medium sized island with adjoining groundwater areaGrasmyrskogvatn Lenvik Nature reserve wetlands Important breeding ground for ducks and wading birdsGrunnvågvatn Lenvik Nature reserve wetlands An important wetland area for wetland birdsHekkingen Lenvik Landscape protection areawith animal protectionsea birds A medium sized island of special signifi cance for seabirdsJøtulhaugvatn Lenvik Nature reserve wetlands A small, productive lake with associated marshlandSkognesvågen Lenvik Nature reserve wetlands Larger groundwater area with associated beach areaBergsøyan Berg Landscape protection area sea birds Archipelago of special importance for sea birdswith animal protectionLavollskjosen Berg Plant protection area coastal beach Complete and virtually unaffected beach pasture areaSvandalen Berg Nature reserve wetlands Wetland area of marches and small lakes in the beechforest beltHolmenvær Torsken Landscape protection area sea birds Archipelago of special importance for sea birdswith animal protectionSandsvika Torsken Nature reserve coast Geological landscape element with eroded sand dunesTeistevika Torsken Landscape protection area coast Geological landscape and important cultural heritagesitesÅnderdalen Torsken/Tranøy National park Pine and beech forest in fjord and mountain landscapeBrannmyra Tranøy Nature reserve marsh A varied and beautiful marsh landscapeForøya Tranøy Nature reserve coniferous Forest area with all natural fl ora and faunaforestLeirpollen-Halsvatnet Tranøy Nature reserve botany Botanically valuable lake and shorelineLekangsøya Tranøy Nature reserve sea birds Medium sized island of special signifi cance for sea birdsLemmingvær Tranøy Landscape protection area sea birds Distinctive island of special signifi cance for sea birdswith animal protectionSkatvikfjellet Tranøy Nature reserve coniferous Forest area with all natural fl ora and faunaforestStongodden Tranøy Nature reserve marsh Distinctive marsh landscape and coastal pine forestVardnesmyra Tranøy Nature reserve wetlands Important bird biotope

Laukhelle Lakselv©JOGJakt Hunting og fiske and på fishing Senja in SenjaRich opportunities are on offer in Senja if you are into fishing or small game hunting.Even though the nearest road is maybe only a few hours’ hike away, Norway’s secondlargest island has expansive areas to explore and terrain that is suitable for mostpeople’s requirements.FishingFreshwater fishing in Senja, like in other parts ofTroms County, is administered by private owners,co-operative societies and Statskog. In order to buya fishing licence to fish in a watercourse containingmigrating salmonids, you will require a National fishingLicence. This is an annual fee running from April 1to March 31 which applies nationwide. There are 11watercourses in Senja containing stocks of salmon, seatrout and sea char.Fishing in the sea or fjords with a rod or hand lineis free. However, you must buy a licence to fish forsalmon, sea trout or sea char using passive gear/fixednets.In each case, it is the angler’s responsibility to beacquainted with the prevailing rules and regulations.Small game huntingAnyone practicing small game hunting requires a validhunting licence. Hunting licences apply for the entirecountry and for the duration of the hunting year, whichruns from April 1 to March 31. Hunting licences serveas proof that you are registered as a hunter. You willrequire such documentation if you apply to the Policeto acquire a weapon and in order to buy ammunition.Everyone registering as a hunter must complete andpass the hunting test.InformationThe website of the directorate for Nature Managementhas information about current requirements for thosewanting to practice hunting and fishing in Norway.The municipal councils in Berg, Lenvik, Torsken andTranøy have published information relevant to theirmunicipalities on their respective websites. Contact thecustomer service departments of the various municipalcouncils for contact details to associations and peoplewith first-hand knowledge of the opportunities on offerin Senja.The website of the Norwegian Association ofHunters and Anglers (NJFF) provides about the localassociations in Senja, as well as links to generalinformation on hunting and fishing in English.Inatur Norge AS provides information about areasmanaged by Statskog. In Senja, this mostly includesmountain areas. Statskog publishes a brochureentitled “Innlandsfiske og småviltjakt i StatskogTroms” (Freshwater fishing and small game huntingin Statskog Troms). This brochure is available at moststockists of hunting, fishing and outdoor equipment,Statskog and the customer service departments atlocal municipal councils. However, this brochure iscurrently available in Norwegian language only.20

The power station damat Hamn©HPPCulturalKulturminnermonumentspå Senjain SenjaHuman settlement in Senja dates back several thousand years. Hundreds of toftsdating back to the Stone Age, the oldest of which are around 6000 years old, canbe found around the entire coast of Senja. .Human settlement in Senja dates back several thousandyears. Hundreds of tofts dating back to the Stone Age,the oldest of which are around 6000 years old, can befound around the entire coast of Senja. Tools which canoriginate from an even older culture have been found inSenja. On Senja’s outer coast, we can find several wellpreserved house tofts and cairns marking ancient burialsites from the early Iron Age.The enormous farm mounds (“rubbish mounds”) on theouter coast of Senja are among the largest in NorthernNorway. Exploring these will provide knowledge aboutthe activity here in the Middle Ages and up to the 18thcentury.The small islands around Senja have a rich historyas fishing villages. The last of these was abandonedin the early 20th century when boats became largerand motorised. During the winter fishing season, oneof the fishing villages was sometimes home to morethan 1000 fishermen, 200 fishing boats and dozens oftraders’ vessels. We can still find traces of fishing huts,boat landings, wharves, houses, wells and other activity.Most of the breakwaters and sea markers remain ingood condition.The combination of agriculture and fishing (thefisherman-farmer culture) was common right up to themid 20th century. Even in the most exposed places, theground has been cultivated and farmers cut grass highup in the mountains to get enough winter feed for onecow and a few sheep. Partly overgrown pastures andstone fences bear witness to these times.Right from ancient times, there was a Coast Samipopulation in Senja. Later Sami settlement also occurredon the inner coast of Senja. Sami reindeer herders fromSweden used Senja as a seasonal grazing area, and tothis day a couple of Sami families use Senja as a yearroundgrazing area. Sacrificial stones, tofts and othertraces of early Sami settlement have been found.Beautiful small churches are among other culturalmonuments visible from the mountainsides aroundSenja.Legends and stories are connected with several ofthe cultural monuments, which can contribute to aspecial experience. Here are but a few examples: Whyare there no trees growing where the last witch inMefjorden was burnt? What is the story behind thelegend about Russehula? And what was it like to live asa hunter in Skoglia?Several areas in Senja now have listed culturallandscapes. Particularly on Senja’s outer coast, you willdiscover cultural landscapes with well preserved boathouses, old Nordland houses, farm buildings, grazingareas and pastures. A nickel works was built at Hamn iSenja in the late 19th century. In connection with this,the world’s first hydro electric power station was builthere in 1882.In Torsken, there is a sign-posted cultural heritage trailbetween Grunnfarnes and Flakstadvåg.Discover more about these and other culturalmonuments by visiting www.midt-troms-museum.no21

Overnatte og spise på SenjaAccomodation and dining in SenjaAlt i Ett Ferie , Laukvik +47 990 12 504 www.altiettferie.no post@altiettferie.noAusa, Gryllefjord +47 918 87 109 post@kaikanten.orgBrødrene Karlsen, Husøy på Senja +47 77 85 13 00 randi@brkarlsen.noFjordbotn Camping, Fjordbotn +47 77 84 93 10 fjordbca@online.noFlakstadvåg Camping og Sjøfiske, +47 48 20 27 08 www.flakstadvag.no post@flakstadvag.noHamn i Senja Senja Reiseliv AS, Hamn +47 77 85 98 80 www.hamnisenja.no post@hamnisenja.noHusøy Overnatting og Opplevelser, Husøy +47 958 09 353www.overnatting-opplevelser.comberit@overnatting-opplevelser.comIdar Isaksen, Svanelvmo +47 456 04 658 id-isaks@online.noSenjatrollet©HPPKaikanten, Gryllefjord +47 918 87 109 www.kaikanten.org post@kaikanten.orgMefjord Brygge, Mefjordvær +47 77 85 89 80 www.mefjordbrygge.no firmapost@mefjordbrygge.noSenjastua, Silsand +47 77 84 40 10 www.senjastua.com epost@senjastua.tr.noSenja Camping, Torsmoen +47 481 58 475 www.senjacamping.no post@senjacamping.noSenja Familiepark, Silsand +47 907 50 765 www.senjafamiliepark.no post@senjafamiliepark.noSenja Havfiskesenter AS, Medby+47 97 08 73 27www.senjahavfiske.noinfo@senjahavfiske.noSkaland Motell, Skaland +47 77 85 84 20Skarvesteinen Kafé, Husøy +47 77 84 88 81 www.skarvesteinenkafe.com skarvesteinenkafe@gmail.comSkatvik Camping, Skatvik +47 77 85 35 30 hanygaa@online.noSteinfjord havfiske, Steinfjord +47 99 54 82 02 www.senjatravel.no post@senjatravel.noTranøybotn Camping Hyttekroa +47 916 35 760 www.tranoybotn-camping.no hyttekroa@tranoybotn-camping.noEidebrygga rorbucamping, Torsken + 47 77 85 53 43 www.eidebrygga.no aage-e@online.noSenja Gjestegard, Rødsand +47 977 72 660 www.senjagjestegard.no senja.gjestegard@danielsengruppen.noSenjabu, Trondalen/Svandalen +47 916 35 760 The key is available by enquiring at the Esso Service Station in Finnsnes.Senjatrollet, Finnsæter +47 77 85 88 64 www.senjatrollet.no lrubach@online.no22Tungeneset. Viewpoint along the National Tourist Route©EM

HekkingenSommarøyaBrensholmenB a ltsfjo rd e nH u sø y fjo rd e nM e fjo rd e nHusøyLaukvikMalangenSte in fjo rd e nErsfjo rd e nMefjordværFjordgårdBotnhamnBøværSkalandBergsfjordenHamnFinnsæterSenjahopenLy sb o tnNational Tourist RoutesGryllefjordGrundfarnesKaldfarnesSkrolsvikSifjordenFlakstadvågSelfjordenHofsøyMedbyRødsandTorskenStraumsbotnK A P E R D A L E NÅnderdalenNational ParkValvågSenjabuTra n ø y fjo rd e nTranøyS V AV L ETranøybotnDyrøyaND A L E NDyrøyhamnSkatvikSenjaS olb e rg fjo rd e23VangsviknSilsandGibostadFinnsnes

Photographers:EM: Elisabeth MüllerHPP: Hans Peder PedersenBS: Berit SivertsenJOG: Jann-Oskar GranheimRS: Reiner SchaufflerTR: Troms reiselivGG: Gunder GabrielsenKN: Kåre NorumSS: Ståle SkogenRelevant websitesBerg Municipal Councilwww.berg.kommune.noLenvik Municipal Councilwww.lenvik.kommune.noTranøy Municipal Councilwww.tranoy.kommune.noTorsken Municipal Councilwww.torsken.kommune.noOther hiking infowww.godtur.noCentral Troms Museumwww.midt-troms.museum.noRubbestad/Vikafjell grunneierlag www.123hjemmeside.no/VikafjellStatskogwww.statskog.noDirectorate for Nature Management www.dirnat.noInatur Norge ASwww.inatur.noOffice of the Country Governor in Troms www.fmtr.noLaukhelle Lakselvwww.lakselva.comNorwegian Association of Hunters and Anglers www.njff.noNational Tourist Routeswww.turistveg.noTroms County Councilwww.tromsfylke.noBerg Lenvik Torsken TranøyTromsfylkeskommuneLevel:The degree of difficulty of the trails is colourcoded according to recommendations fromInnovativ fjellturisme.Green = easyBlue = mediumRed = demandingLayout: JOG. English translation: www.gavint-oversetting.no. Printing: Kampen Grafisk. Front cover photo: From the route’s highest point ©EM. Back cover photo ©EM