Fødalen & Systrandfossen waterfall

Fødalen is one of the most beautiful mountain valleys in the whole of Skarvheimen, and this tour gives you an up-close encounter with wild nature, sparkling mountain water and one of Norway's most beautiful waterfalls.

The hike into Fødalen starts right from Iungsdalshytta and follows the T-marked trail up along the Fossebrekka river, which plunges down the mountainside in powerful rapids. The trail leads you to Klevavatnet, a beautiful lake surrounded by rock formations and wide views.

From here, you can follow an unmarked path along the water, and make your way up to a vantage point where you look straight towards Systrandfossen, one of the most impressive waterfalls in southern Norway. The hike is perfect as a leisurely day trip or as part of a multi-day stay at Iungsdalshytta.

Important to know

This hike is described from Iungsdalshytta. If you are not already there, you must first enter from Toviki, an easy and pleasant approach of approx. 3.2 km. See the tour description.

Hike description

From Iungsdalshytta, follow the T-marked path westwards towards Bjordalsbu. After a short while, the trail heads northwards along Fossebrekka, and you'll get increasingly good views of Fødalen. Eventually you will reach Klevavatnet.

From the south end of the lake, turn off the main trail and follow a clear, unmarked path north-eastwards, where the landscape opens up and you get a view of Systrandfossen in the north. This is a great place to take a break, take photos and enjoy nature.

The tour takes the same route back to the cabin.

Tips

The tour is suitable for families with children, hiking groups and those who want a day of nature experiences without a demanding climb. The waters in the area are home to mountain fish that are eager to bite, and it's not unusual to meet fishermen trying their luck.

After the tour, you can enjoy dinner at Iungsdalshyttaand extend the evening with a short stroll down to the water, perhaps encountering one of the many farm animals that graze in the area.

About the hike

Moderately demanding hike
2 h
7.5 kilometres
Return journey
142 vertical metres in total
Jun - Oct