About This Hike
This is the easier Hjelle–Vetti return walk through Utladalen, a good choice if you want the valley scenery without continuing on the steeper path to Vettisfossen. Start at the car park by Hjellefossen and follow the narrow gravel Folkevegen road for about five kilometres beside the Utla river to Vetti Farm, then return the same way. The 10-kilometre round trip takes about 3.5 hours and gains roughly 245 metres. Along the way, the valley narrows between steep rock walls and four waterfalls come into view. Vetti Farm offers a toilet and, during the summer season, food and accommodation, making it a natural turnaround and rest stop. The route is generally manageable for families used to a longer walk, but it is still a mountain-valley outing: use the road and marked paths, carry water and layers, and keep well back from the cold, fast river. Visit from May to October when conditions are snow-free.
Highlights
- ✓ Beautiful valley scenery
- ✓ Rivers and waterfalls
- ✓ Relaxed hiking pace
- ✓ Gateway to Jotunheimen
Getting There
Car park at the foot of Hjellefossen waterfall, with an information board for the route.
Before You Go
Folkevegen is an almost five-kilometre gravel road from Hjelle to Vetti, so the ordinary out-and-back valley walk is about 10 km. It is the right endpoint for this easier guide; the paths to Vettisfossen’s base or upper viewpoint begin from Vetti and require separate time, footwear and route planning. The road crosses the Utla four times, so stay on the road and bridges rather than following informal riverbank tracks.
Information checked: September 2026, against current Visit Årdal and Jotunheimen National Park access information
⚠️ Safety Notes
- The Utla river runs fast, cold and deep with meltwater, especially in early summer, so keep children well back from the bank.
- Weather in the valley can turn quickly to cold rain, so carry warm and waterproof clothing even on a summer visit.
- Wet rock, roots and boardwalk near the river and side waterfalls can be slippery underfoot.