After yesterday’s post about hiking to a great view that took very little effort, we paid our dues with plenty of effort today! We climbed the most popular hike in Åndalsnes. It is called the Rampestreken viewpoint hike. After reaching Rampestreken we went a bit further to make it to the top of Mount Nesaksla. Like yesterday, it was a steep hike, but instead of being done after 20 minutes like yesterday, it took about 1.5 hours of steep climbing to get to the top, which was 708 meters. Here are Leon and Megan climbing one stretch of the hike which is composed of rock steps placed by Nepalese Sherpas. We don’t know why they had Sherpas do it, but presumably they were quite good at it. I liked the stone steps because the alternative was usually climbing over twisty exposed tree roots which were a lot less even than the steps.
At the viewpoint, there is a metal walkway that extends out from the mountain sort of like a diving board so that you can walk out past the edge of the mountain and get a larger view.
Once you get to the top of the mountain, the views are even more sweeping. The excitement of the viewing platform is mostly the fact that you are out almost floating in space.
On the way down, Megan and Leon were ok but the soles of my feet were feeling really achy after walking the steep downhill over tree roots for so long. I was sure happy to reach flat ground again! However, it was a great hike well worth it for the views.
Tomorrow we are going to be leaving the farmhouse and driving a bit south to the Geirangerfjord area.
Balents Trip Blog 