Troll Road in Norway: Famous Winding Road in Norway

Renowned for its dramatic hairpin bends, breathtaking mountain scenery and engineering marvels, Norway’s Troll Road is a must-see. Driving this most famous winding road in Norway during your road trip guarantees you an exhilarating adventure and simply stunning views – sounds amazing, right?

Find out what makes the Troll Road in Norway so special in our complete guide, including everything you need to know before enjoying the thrill of this unique route during your time in Norway.

What is the Troll Road in Norway?

A winding mountain road that forms part of Norwegian County Road 63, the Troll Road is called Trollstigen in Norwegian, which means ‘the Troll’s Path’ or ‘Troll’s Ladder’. This iconic serpentine road ascends the mountainside, reaching a peak of about 870 meters above sea level and offering incredible views of the surrounding fjords, waterfalls, mountains and valleys.

Originally opened in 1936 by King Haakon VII following eight years of construction, the Troll Road remains a remarkable feat of Norwegian engineering. With a steep incline of 10% and eleven hairpin bends, Trollstigen started as a narrow road, but, as it became increasingly popular with tourists during the 2000s and 2010s, construction work took place to widen the pass.

Despite its increased width, the tight bends still make the Troll road unsuitable for large vehicles; in fact, vehicles longer than 12.4 meters (about 41 feet) are not permitted due to the challenging turns. The Trollstigen route is famous for its integration into the natural landscape, with parts carved directly into the rock and others built on stone walls.

Fun fact: Each bend on Norway’s Troll Road is named, often after the foremen who led the construction teams.

Where is Trollstigen?

Located in the county of Møre og Romsdal in the northernmost area of Western Norway, Trollstigen runs from Åndalsnes town to Valldal village. The most famous section of the Troll Road, which is the 6 km stretch with the eleven hairpin bends, lies between these two points.

The western portion of Trollstigen sits within the Trollstigen landscape protected area, while the eastern section borders Reinheimen National Park, one of the many incredible national parks in Norway. Norway’s Troll Road is also part of the National Scenic Route Geiranger–Trollstigen, which continues on to one of Norway’s amazing fjords: the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. So, there’s no shortage of amazing sights to see along the way! 

Driving Trollstigen Mountain Road

If navigating sharp curves while being surrounded by towering peaks and lush valleys sounds good to you, then you’ll love the Troll Road in Norway. Trollstigen’s narrowness and steep gradient may be nerve-wracking, but it might make you feel better to know that the road’s surface is very well-paved and maintained.

Once you reach the summit of Trollstigen road, you’ll find a large car park and several architecturally striking viewing platforms, including one that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from 200 meters above the road! The Trollstigen Visitor Center also sits at the top, offering a café, souvenir shops, restrooms and fascinating exhibits about the road’s construction and local history.

Is Taking the Trollstigen Route Worth It?

Wondering whether to include a Trollstigen trip in your vacation itinerary? Well, all we can say is that Norway’s Troll Road is absolutely worth a trip. Trollstigen is considered one of the most spectacular mountain roads in Norway and is highly recommended for anyone who loves dramatic landscapes and unique travel experiences.

The combination of hairpin bends, steep cliffs, waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints makes it a highlight of any Norway road trip. Many travelers describe the drive as unforgettable and the views from the top as truly breathtaking.

Due to its popularity, the road can get crowded, especially in peak summer months. For the best experience, we recommend starting early in the day before the bulk of tourists arrive.

Trollstigen Road Closures to Be Aware Of 

Trollstigen is a seasonal road, typically open from mid-May to October, but exact opening and closing dates vary each year depending on weather conditions and any required maintenance. The road is always closed during the winter due to snow and avalanche risk.

In 2024, Trollstigen closed early for the season after only ten days of being open, due to multiple dangerous rockslides. Authorities decided to keep the road closed for the remainder of the year to ensure visitor safety. Repairs and discussions about funding are ongoing, and officials hope to reopen the road in July 2025.

Even when the road is closed to vehicles, the viewing platforms at the top remain accessible from the south via Valldal, so you can still enjoy the iconic views.

Highlights of the Troll Road in Norway

Here are some of the top things to spot during your time traveling the Trollstigen route:

• Eleven hairpin bends – The most iconic feature of Norway’s Troll Road is its sharp bends, offering a dramatic ascent up the mountainside.

• Stigfossen Waterfall – Don’t miss Stigfossen: a 320-meter waterfall that the road passes, with a scenic stone bridge crossing.

• Troll Road signs & statues – Along the route, you’ll find playful troll-themed signs and statues, adding a charming touch of Norwegian folklore to your journey.

• Viewing platforms – Striking, modern platforms at the summit provide panoramic views of the winding road and surrounding peaks.

• Visitor Center – Why not stop at the Visitor Center to explore the café, gift shop, restrooms and informative exhibits about the road and area?

• Gudbrandsjuvet Gorge – This nearby gorge with a viewing platform is definitely worth a stop on your way to or from Trollstigen.

• Hiking opportunities – There are several trails around Trollstigen, including Kløvstien and hikes to Bispevatnet and Stabbeskaret, allowing you to experience the breathtaking landscape up close.

Discover Norway’s Famous Troll Road For Yourself!

Trollstigen, the famous winding road in Norway, is much more than just a drive – it’s a full-on sensory experience of Norwegian nature, culture and adventure! The Troll Road remains one of Norway’s most unforgettable attractions. To experience it yourself, get started with your vacation planning today.

Check out our fleet of affordable and reliable motorhome rentals in Norway to find the perfect accommodation and transport solution for your once-in-a-lifetime Norway road trip. Got any questions? We’re here to help – feel free to get in touch!