The hike to Trolltunga (The Troll’s Tongue) is more than a walk in the park; it’s a 28-kilometer (17.4-mile) round-trip pilgrimage across some of Norway’s most raw and dramatic landscapes. It’s a challenge that rewards with arguably the most iconic photograph in all of Scandinavia. But this reward is earned. The weather in the Hardangervidda plateau is notoriously fickle, shifting from brilliant sunshine to biting wind, rain, and even snow in a matter of minutes—even in summer.
Your enjoyment and safety on this epic day hike are almost entirely dependent on your preparation. And the cornerstone of that preparation is your gear. This isn’t about having the most expensive items; it’s about having the right ones. Think of your gear not as weight in your pack, but as your support team—each item a crucial member keeping you safe, comfortable, and moving forward.
Here is the definitive, layered system for conquering Trolltunga.
The Non-Negotiable Foundation: Footwear and The Daypack
1. Hiking Boots: Your Most Important Decision
Forget trainers. You need ankle support, grip, and protection.
- Sturdy Ankle Support: The terrain is rocky, uneven, and can be slippery. Boots protect your ankles from rolls on the countless stones and boulders.
- Aggressive Grip (Vibram Sole): The smooth, often wet, granite slabs demand a high-traction outsole. Look for deep, multi-directional lugs.
- Waterproof & Breathable (Gore-Tex): You will encounter mud, puddles, and possibly snow. waterproof boots keep your feet dry, which is essential for preventing blisters on a long hike.
- Pro Tip: Your boots must be broken in, not brand new. Wear them on several shorter hikes first to avoid painful blisters that could ruin your trip.
2. The Daypack (25-35 Liters)
You need a comfortable pack with a hip belt. A hip belt transfers the weight from your shoulders to your hips, making the load feel significantly lighter over 10-12 hours.
- Hydration:
- Water Bladder (2-3 Liters): A hydration bladder (like a CamelBak) is ideal for sipping water on the go without stopping.
- Plus a Backup Bottle: Carry an additional 1-liter water bottle. You can refill both at the safe drinking water streams along the route (a treat!), but having capacity is key.
The Layering System: Your Adaptive Climate Control
The weather can change in an instant. Dressing in layers allows you to adapt quickly, regulating your body temperature and staying dry.
Base Layer: Moisture Management
- Material: Merino Wool is the gold standard. It wicks sweat away from your skin, dries quickly, and retains warmth even when damp. Avoid cotton at all costs—it traps moisture and will make you cold.
- Top & Bottom: A short or long-sleeved merino top and merino leggings or boxers.
Mid Layer: Insulation
This layer traps warmth when you stop moving or the temperature drops.
- Fleece Jacket or Pullover: Lightweight, breathable, and excellent for active insulation.
- Down or Synthetic Puffy Jacket: Essential for stops at the summit. The moment you stop hiking, your body will cool down rapidly. A packable puffy jacket is your best friend at the Troll’s Tongue while you wait for your photo.
Outer Shell: Protection from the Elements
- Waterproof & Windproof Jacket (Gore-Tex or equivalent): This is your emergency shelter. It must be fully waterproof, not just water-resistant, with a good hood to protect against driving rain and wind.
- Waterproof Pants (Overtrousers): Absolutely critical. Many people skip these and regret it. When the cold wind and rain hit on the exposed plateau, pulling on waterproof pants is a game-changer for warmth and comfort.
Bonus: Trekking Poles
These are highly recommended. They provide stability on rocky descents, reduce impact on your knees by up to 25%, and give you two extra points of contact on slippery sections.
Safety & Navigation: Don’t Become a Statistic
This hike is remote and serious. Cell service is patchy.
- Headlamp (+ Extra Batteries): This is a safety essential. If you are delayed, hiking in the dark on this terrain is extremely dangerous. A headlamp is mandatory.
- Detailed Map & Compass (and the knowledge to use them): Do not rely solely on your phone. A power bank can only help if your phone has service. A physical map is fail-safe.
- First-Aid Kit: Focus on blister care (Compeed pads are a must!), painkillers, bandages, and antiseptic wipes.
- High-Energy Food: You will burn thousands of calories. Pack more than you think you need.
- Examples: Nuts, trail mix, chocolate, energy bars, dried fruit, sandwiches.
- Sun Protection: The Arctic sun can be strong. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a lip balm with SPF are vital.
The Complete Trolltunga Gear Checklist
Worn:
- [ ] Hiking Boots (broken-in)
- [ ] Merino Wool Socks (consider a spare pair in your pack)
- [ ] Merino Wool Base Layer Top & Bottom
- [ ] Hiking Pants/Shorts (quick-dry material)
- [ ] Buff or Neck Gaiter
In Your Pack:
- Hydration:
- [ ] Hydration Bladder (2-3L)
- [ ] 1L Water Bottle (for backup & mixing electrolytes)
- Layers:
- [ ] Fleece or Insulating Mid-Layer
- [ ] Packable Puffy Jacket
- [ ] Waterproof/Windproof Jacket (Gore-Tex)
- [ ] Waterproof Pants
- [ ] Spare Warm Hat & Gloves (even in summer)
- Safety & Navigation:
- [ ] Headlamp + extra batteries
- [ ] Power Bank & Cable
- [ ] Detailed Map & Compass
- [ ] First-Aid Kit (focus on blister care)
- Sustenance:
- [ ] High-energy snacks & lunch (extra food)
- [ ] Electrolyte tablets or powder
- Essentials:
- [ ] Trekking Poles
- [ ] Sunscreen & SPF Lip Balm
- [ ] Sunglasses
- [ ] Camera / Phone
- [ ] Small Pack Towel
- [ ] Zip-lock bag for trash (Leave No Trace)
Final Words of Wisdom
- Start Early: Begin your hike by 6:00-7:00 AM at the latest. This gives you ample daylight and time to enjoy the summit without rushing.
- Check the Forecast: But be prepared for it to be wrong. The weather at the trailhead in Skjeggedal can be completely different at the summit.
- Listen to Your Body: Turn back if the weather turns severe or if you are not feeling well. The mountain will always be there. Your safety is more important than the photo.
Packing this list might seem meticulous, but on the mountain, each item will feel like a lifesaver. Being over-prepared is the key to transforming a grueling challenge into an empowering and unforgettable adventure. Now, lace up your broken-in boots, shoulder your pack, and go claim your place on the Troll’s Tongue.