At 740 masl, Stornappstinden is the most prominent mountain at the eastern edge of Flakstadøya island, and its location makes Stornappstinden one of the best viewpoints in Lofoten. In good weather, stunning views are guaranteed, especially to the Offersoykammen island and Haukland Beach with nearby mountains.
In this article we’re sharing how to hike to Stornappstinden and why the breath-taking views are well worth the effort!
Hike to Stornappstinden Lofoten
- Height: Stornappstinden 740 masl
- Total time: 4 hours
- Total distance: 5.6 km
- Parking: car park at Nappskaret ski centre (directions)
- Level of difficulty: 3/5 – straight forward hill walk, steep. Norwegian standards: BLUE – moderate
- Total elevation gain: 683 metres
- Stornappstinden weather: weather forecast for Stornappstinden
How to get to Stornappstinden trail head
Hiking trail to Stornappstinden starts at the ski centre near Nappskaret. There are two dedicated parking areas: a small lay-by along road E10 and a large car park, just off the main road. We recommend using the latter, as it’s more spacious. Both car parks are free of charge, however no facilities are provided.
Nappskaret is also easily accessible by bus, and we encourage you to use public transport. Buses stopping at Nappskaret are 23-760, 18-742, 18-771, see the timetable (route planner).
What to expect along the hiking trail to Stornappstinden
Despite being very straight forward, Stornappstinden hike takes some effort and sweat, as it’s steep throughout. The only easier part is the initial section, along the ski slope. Once you are above lamp posts level, you’ll instantly start gaining elevation.
A couple of words about the path to Stornappstinden.
The trail is unmarked, but easy to follow. Initial section, near ski centre, can be wet. You will also pass some ‘muddy dips’- flatter spots which can be swampy, frankly speaking. They are quite easy to by-pass, but you should still be prepared to make a couple of steps and see the tips of your shoes underwater or disappearing in mud. Therefore, we recommend wearing good hiking boots on your walk to Stornappstinden, to avoid ending up with wet feet and mud entering from the top.
Once you pass Myrlandselva, the trail changes its character and you can forget the mud. But, at the same time you’ll have to raise to a new challenge, which by no means is easy!
The second half of Stornappstinden hike is a long, direct climb to the summit. This section is very steep and winds up the rugged trail; path is very eroded at times, hence great care is needed. So take it easy, climb steadily and carefully and you’ll be fine; also be aware of other walkers especially when passing each other, the trail can get narrow.
Soon you’ll come to upper slopes of Stornappstinden, the top is only a couple of minutes away!
Stunning views from the top of Stornappstinden Lofoten
The amazing summit views are the main reason why you should include Stornappstinden hike in your Lofoten itinerary. Despite being a rather strenuous hike, we believe it’s well worth the effort, as the reward (oversight of eastern and eastern Lofoten) will leave you speechless.
The most beautiful sight from peak of Stornappstinden is Offesoykammen. The island reminds a sphinx, guarding the gates to eastern Lofoten; white rocks along its shores beautifully compose with turquoise water and greenish-orange of the land. We totally fell in love with this view.
Further, past Offersoykammen, you’ll see town of Leknes and ridge of Justadtinden, and even as far as mountains and islands near Svolvaer! But the most unique treat is view to the edge of Vestvagoy island, separated from Stornappstinden only by a narrow stretch of water.
Take your time and enjoy the view! In good weather you’ll spot a white stripe of Haukland Beach (far left) and nearby mountains: Veggen and Mannen, all of them worth a visit!
Below we’re sharing a couple of photographs from the top of Stornappstinden, in case you needed some more convincing (but we’re sure that you have already drafted Stornappstinden in your plan by now)
Stornappstinden Lofoten hiking map
What we loved about Stornappstinden Lofoten hike
Undoubtedly, the best selling point of hike to Stornappstinden are the summit views; these are simply spectacular. But the hike also allowed us to discover the beautiful eastern part of Flakstadoya island, which is usually overlooked, as many visitors only drive thru the island on their way from Haukland/Leknes to Moskenesoya. We strongly encourage you to stop for a half-day hike to Stornappstinden during your trip to Lofoten!
Wild camping near Stornappstinden Lofoten and nearest campsites
Wild camping is allowed and widely accepted in Norway. By law, everyone is allowed to stay overnight at any spot at least 150 metres from nearby buildings. As much as it sounds great, in reality finding a wild camping spot in Lofoten can be very tricky as they’re relatively highly populated. On many occasions suitable camping spots are blocked or marked as private grounds with camping forbidden.
Although finding a wild camping spot along the trail to Stornappstinden would be rather challenging (due to wetness and steepness of the terrain), the summit is surprisingly spacious and would make a fantastic overnight stay spot. Especially in the summer, it would be perfect to watch midnight sun.
Otherwise, for off-the-grid camping we recommend driving to Haukland Beach car park or Skagen Beach car park near Flakstad.
Nearest campsites are located in Uttakleiv and Flakstad (Skagen camping).
LOOKING FOR OTHER AMAZING WALKS IN LOFOTEN?
If you’re looking for other hiking ideas on Lofoten archipelago, check out these amazing hill and beach walks! All include detailed route descriptions and maps:
HERMANNSDALSTINDEN – conquer the highest summit of Moskenesoya island on the western end of Lofoten archipelago! An amazing, 2 day hike thru stunning wild mountains!
TINDSTINDEN– a fine hike to the peak over village A, starting from Sorvagen. A surprisingly adventurous half-day hike with spectacular views!
FLOYA & DJEVELPORTEN – a challenging hike with stunning views to the town and islands of Svolvaer, and a dare-devil spot at Djevelporten boulder. Why not extending the adventure and include another 2 peaks, Blatinden and Tuva?
VAEROY ISLAND – day trip to a small island off Lofoten’s western end. Vaeroy is easily explored on foot or by bike, offers great short hikes as well as a fine local cuisine!
*Level of difficulty explained: 1– easy walk, mostly flat 2– easy hillwalk, good path 3-moderate, possible some steep sections 4-long hillwalk, possibly some scrambling involved, possibly pathless 5-difficult, possibly pathless, long, requires technical skills
NORWEGIAN DIFFICULTY LEVEL EXPLAINED: GREEN – easy , BLUE -moderate, RED – demanding, BLACK -expert
