About This Hike
Snøhetta's Stortoppen reaches 2,286 metres in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park and is Norway's highest summit outside Jotunheimen. This page covers the marked return route from Snøheim: 12 kilometres, 823 metres of ascent and roughly six hours according to DNT. The path becomes progressively rockier and finishes through large boulders where snow or ice can remain well into summer. Stiff-soled hiking boots, windproof layers, food, water, a map and a compass are appropriate even when the forecast below is mild. Snøheimvegen is closed to civilian car traffic to reduce disturbance in an important wild-reindeer migration area. In 2026, the shuttle operates between Hjerkinnhus and Snøheim from 26 June to 4 October with five daily departures; book from “Hjerkinnhus, Dovre,” not the E6 junction, and plan around the last return. The bus does not collect passengers along the road. If wild reindeer appear, stop and withdraw rather than pushing the herd away. Keep at least 200 metres from musk oxen and make a wide detour if one blocks the route. This summit is different from the much shorter architectural Viewpoint SNØHETTA near Hjerkinn; confirm which destination you intend before booking transport.
Highlights
- ✓ Norway's highest summit outside Jotunheimen at 2,286 m
- ✓ A marked 12 km return route from the DNT cabin at Snøheim
- ✓ Open Dovrefjell views across boulder-strewn high mountain terrain
- ✓ A protected landscape shared with wild reindeer and musk oxen
Getting There
Park at Hjerkinnhus and use the seasonal shuttle bus to Snøheim; access on Snøheimvegen is restricted to protect wild reindeer. Check the current timetable and tickets before travel.
Before You Go
The stated distance, ascent and time apply specifically to the marked return route from Snøheim to Stortoppen. The 2026 Hjerkinnhus–Snøheim shuttle operates 26 June–4 October; book the bus and plan against its final return departure rather than assuming access by private car.
Information checked: September 2026, against DNT Snøheim's route and access information
⚠️ Safety Notes
- Weather at the 2,286 m summit can turn to whiteout, high wind and sub-zero temperatures even in summer, so carry windproof layers, map and compass and be ready to turn back.
- The final climb crosses steep, boulder-strewn terrain that can hold snow or ice, so sturdy boots and careful footing are essential.
- The standard route depends on the seasonal Hjerkinn–Snøheim shuttle bus, so check its timetable and return time before setting out.
- Keep at least 200 m from musk oxen; if one is close to the route, make a wide detour or turn back.
- Wild reindeer are highly disturbance-sensitive. Stop, retreat and give a herd room rather than continuing toward it.