OLDEN GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Glacier Edge by Troll Car: A Guided Ascent to Briksdal from Olden
A guided outing that combines a scenic 45‑minute shuttle along emerald Olden Lake with a Troll Car approach and a short walk into Jostedal Glacier National Park.
Glacier Edge by Troll Car: A Guided Ascent to Briksdal from Olden.
Adventure brief
Glacier Edge by Troll Car: A Guided Ascent to Briksdal from Olden
Departing from the Port of Olden, this guided excursion pairs a relaxed shuttle along the valley and the emerald green Olden Lake with a Troll Car approach into the Briksdal valley, culminating in a walk to the Briksdal Glacier within Jostedal Glacier National Park. Along the way you pass waterfalls, mountain slopes and traditional valley architecture, with time at the glacier for photos, refreshments or a visit to a local souvenir shop.
In the heart of Norway’s stunning Sogn og Fjordane region, Olden Adventure offers an engaging way to witness the raw power and beauty of the Briksdal Glacier. Starting from the charming port town of Olden, visitors embark on a scenic 45-minute shuttle ride across shimmering Olden Lake—its emerald waters reflecting towering mountains and swirling clouds—setting the stage for an unforgettable glacier encounter.
The real highlight begins with a guided Troll Car journey, a specialized vehicle that navigates narrow mountain roads with ease, giving travelers a comfortable yet adventurous ride up toward the glacier. As the Troll Car ascends, panoramic vistas unfold: jagged peaks, waterfalls cascading down moss-covered cliffs, and patches of wildflowers. Once at the glacier, visitors can step out to walk along the ice, marvel at the blue hues of ancient ice, and snap striking photos of this swirling, crevassed expanse. The nearby national park offers a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, while local guides share insights about the glacier’s ongoing retreat—part of Norway’s ongoing climate story.
Olden Adventure specializes in immersive experiences that combine scenic travel with accessible adventure, making their glacier tour a standout in Norway’s outdoor recreation scene. They combine practical logistics, environmental consciousness, and friendly local knowledge to craft trips that appeal to all outdoor enthusiasts—whether seeking a family-friendly outing or a more in-depth glacier trek.
This tour provides a perfect mix of natural wonder and cultural interest, highlighting the glacial landscapes that have shaped the region for millennia. It’s a lively, engaging way to get up close to Norway’s icy giants without the need for technical skills or strenuous hikes, making it an ideal entry point for travelers of varying ages and abilities seeking to connect deeply with Norway’s rugged, breathtaking landscape.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops on the route from Olden to Briksdal and back, with where you board, the approach and glacier access.
Port of Olden — Departure
Group meets and boards at the Port of Olden to begin the shuttle journey through the valley.
Shuttle along Olden Lake
A scenic shuttle ride follows the valley and the emerald Olden Lake for approximately 40–45 minutes each way, passing waterfalls and traditional buildings.
Briksdal — Troll Car boarding
Arrive at Briksdal and board the guided Troll Cars for the ascent toward the glacier; the Troll Cars take you up toward a stop roughly 700 m from the glacier.
Walk to the Glacier Viewpoint
From the Troll Car stop, there is a roughly 15‑minute walk to the glacier viewpoint, starting with one steep uphill stretch followed by flatter ground.
Return via Troll Car and Shuttle
After time at the glacier to enjoy the views, visit the souvenir shop or restaurant if desired, then rejoin the Troll Car and shuttle for the scenic return to Olden.
The walk from the Troll Car stop to the glacier is about 15 minutes and begins with a steep uphill section; benches are available at the car stops if you prefer not to walk the full distance. Buses do not have onboard toilets; plan accordingly. Operator schedules run continuously while cruise ships are in port and may affect timing.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
The outing unfolds as a measured valley journey: a comfortable shuttle along the water and mountain flanks, a guided Troll Car ascent that delivers you near the glacier, and a short walk into the national park to stand before the ice. There is time to linger at the glacier, buy local handicrafts or grab a refreshment before returning along the same scenic corridor.
THE LANDSCAPE
Emerald Olden Lake and Valley Views
The shuttle ride follows the valley and the emerald green surface of Olden Lake, offering repeated photo stops on the approach to Briksdal.
THE ATTRACTION
Briksdal Glacier — Norway’s Popular Glacier Destination
The tour delivers you to one of Norway’s most visited glacier attractions, set beneath steep mountains and fed by dramatic waterfalls.
THE ROUTE
Troll Car Access into Jostedal Glacier National Park
From the Briksdal stopping point a guided Troll Car transports groups into the valley; the approach provides close views of the glacier and the surrounding high ground.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Total excursion time is approximately 3.5 hours; the shuttle portion of the journey takes around 40–45 minutes each way.
Meet just outside the ship’s security gate at the Port of Olden before boarding the shuttle.
Buses used on the shuttle do not have toilets; plan accordingly for the transfer.
No specific gear list is provided in the trip details; check with the operator for recommendations if you have questions about clothing or footwear.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the bus journey to Briksdal?
The bus takes approximately 40 minutes each way; there is no toilet on the buses.
How is the walk from the Troll Cars to the glacier?
It takes approximately 15 minutes to walk to the glacier from where the Troll Cars stop. The walk begins with one steep uphill stretch and then is mostly flat; there are several benches at the Troll Car stops if you do not wish to walk the rest of the way.
How long is the Troll Car ride?
The ride up with the Troll Cars takes around 10–15 minutes; the Troll Cars seat up to seven people in each car and provide views of the Briksdal Glacier during the ride.
How much time do we have at the glacier?
You have approximately 45 minutes from where the Troll Cars stop to do the walk and enjoy the views; benches are available at the stopping point if you prefer not to walk up to the glacier.
Is the tour guided?
Yes — a local guide accompanies the group and provides information throughout the excursion.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-05T19:26:30.484Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.