Steep, scary, exciting and panoramic, yet safe and accessible to most people; the first via ferrata in Northern Norway takes you 660 metres (2,165 feet) up along a steep rock wall in Mosjøen.
In Mosjøen, between the fjord and inland area in the south of Northern Norway, you can now use a via ferrata to climb the town’s landmark Øyfjellet, which soars upwards immediately across on the other side of Vefsna. The first via ferrata in Northern Norway is well-suited to climbing beginners.
Via ferrata means the iron path
The Italian words “via ferrata” mean “iron path”. This is where iron hoops are inserted into the mountain, and the entire structure is secured using a wire running down the mountainside. You then hang onto the wire and use the iron hoops as both climbing grips and steps. The route has been created on parts of the mountain where there are natural steps and grips. You wear a climbing harness, and shock absorbers are also used. This via ferrata is classified as a B/C, i.e. easy to medium difficulty.
Anyone with good fitness level can join
The purpose of a via ferrata is to make mountain climbing accessible to more people. With the right equipment, anyone in reasonable shape and with normal body motor functions can participate. Consequently, climbing experience is not necessary, provided you are part of an organised tour. Tours take place daily in the summer with Naturlige Helgeland. You need to provide your own sturdy walking boots and a daysack packed with extra clothing, a good packed lunch and a drink; however, all other necessary equipment will be provided.
You climb 660 metres up in a few hours
The first part of the trip follows a Sherpa path from the parking area close to Mosjøen. The via ferrata itself starts once you have climbed to a height of around 300 metres (984 feet). You then climb around 150 metres (492 feet) before unclipping and then walking for a little way, before the via ferrata then takes you another 150 metres (492 feet) up. You climb to a height of around 600 metres (1969 feet), and from there walk another 60 metres (197 feet) on foot before reaching an ordinary hiking trail leading down the mountain. The entire trip takes around five hours.
Visit Helgeland
The local tourist board tells you where to go and who to talk to