About This Hike
This guide covers the Keipen on the south side of Gursken in Sande municipality, reached from Drageskaret on County Road 61. Several Norwegian summits share the name, so use the trailhead and measurements here rather than combining this route with a different Keipen. From the car park at the highest point of Drageskaret, follow the marked path along the Langhamrane ridge, past Kvilesteinen and between Knottahornet and Svedehornet. At the signed junction for Keipen and Veten, turn left. The route continues on the north side of Langevetevatnet, passes between the two parts of Middagsvatna and then heads east to Keipen. The standard out-and-back is about 8.7 kilometres, gains 328 metres and normally takes around three hours. Keipen's highest point is 410 metres above sea level, with an open view across Gursken. Middagsvatna has a prepared picnic and barbecue area that makes a natural break. Morotur grades the route blue and describes it as both signed and marked, but sections cross open mountain terrain where cloud, wind and wet ground still matter. An optional continuation via Torsethornet and Veten creates a different and longer outing; only take it with a suitable map and enough time.
Highlights
- ✓ Open views over Gursken
- ✓ Signed route from Drageskaret
- ✓ Picnic area beside Middagsvatna
- ✓ A quieter Søre Sunnmøre summit
Getting There
Designated parking at the highest point of Drageskaret on County Road 61, between Gursken and Larsnes
Before You Go
These figures apply only to the signed Keipen route from the highest point of Drageskaret on County Road 61: 4.34 km each way, 328 metres of ascent and about three hours. Morotur also describes an optional return via Torsethornet and Veten, but that extension is not included in the standard distance on this page.
Information checked: September 2026, against Morotur's Keipen route for Sande municipality
⚠️ Safety Notes
- Several summits are named Keipen; navigate to Drageskaret on County Road 61 and follow signs for Keipen and Veten.
- The route crosses open mountain terrain, so carry a map, warm and waterproof layers, and turn back if cloud removes visibility.
- Wet rock, grass and boggy ground can be slippery even though the route is marked.
- The Torsethornet and Veten alternative is a separate extension; do not include it unless you have planned the extra distance and time.