Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The walk
From the car park at Mardalen, at the end of the toll road from Eikesdalen, the path built in 2012 winds up through old elm woods that feel almost untouched. The first 1.4 km, to the new bridge, climb gently; beyond the bridge the way is steeper, up to the viewpoints below the falls. Return the same way.
It is 4.3 km there and back with 239 m of ascent; allow about 2 hours. The grade is Easy: a good, wide path, steeper beyond the bridge.
DNT Romsdal calls Mardalsfossen the fourth highest free fall in the world, an impressive sight at close quarters in its flowing season, from 20 June to 20 August. The old elms support many unusual plants and animals, and the wood is full of birdsong by day. The path is wide and even enough to cycle.
The road from Eikesdalen to the car park is a toll road, paid at a card machine. There is no parking fee, and there are benches, a kiosk and information about the falls at the car park.
Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.
Good to know
- Mardalsfossen, which DNT Romsdal calls the fourth highest free fall in the world
- The water runs from 20 June to 20 August only
- A path built in 2012 through old elm woods, then steeper beyond the new bridge
- A toll road (card machine) runs from Eikesdalen to the car park; no parking fee
Getting there
Start: Mardalen · Free parking. 62.48931, 8.14080
Places to stay nearby
Rooms in and around Romsdal: Booking.com → Expedia →
Affiliate links: if you book, Global Adventurer earns a small commission at no cost to you.
Paths change, and the weather decides the day. The line and figures come from OpenStreetMap and our own checks; take a map, check the forecast, and turn back if it isn't right.