Folk trail in Notodden

About

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8.0 km
Time: approx. 2 h 40 min
Route: One way (A–B)
Elevation gain: 59 meters
Season: All year

The Heddøla River flows gently and calmly through the wide Heddal Valley in Notodden municipality. After the development of waterfalls in the valley and the mountains of Tuddal and Hjartdal, the river has been regulated and reshaped. The regular spring floods are now gone, and the water level stays almost the same in summer and winter. However, rapid snowmelt can occasionally cause high water levels.

A spring hike is highly recommended. You can enjoy birdsong and blooming wood anemones before the birch and alder trees have fully leafed out.

The trail is wide and well maintained, with bridges and boardwalks that make it accessible for most people. The terrain is flat and easy to walk, and the path runs on glacial moraine gravel from the Ice Age. The trail is marked and maintained by Heddal velforening.

Getting There

By car:
The hike starts at the north end of Skilrudtjønna, near the airstrip at Notodden Airport. Just north (towards Seljord) of the pond, a road goes down to the left. The trail begins there and follows the eastern bank of the Heddøla River westward all the way to the Slåtta gas station.

The hike can be done as a round trip, or you can be dropped off or picked up at Slåtta if you prefer to walk it one way.

Responsible Outdoor Travel

When exploring nature, it’s essential to practice responsible outdoor behavior to preserve and respect the natural environment.

• Stay on marked trails to avoid harming ecosystems
• Carry out your trash and respect local rules and regulations
• Avoid disturbing wildlife
• Be mindful of protected areas

By acting responsibly in nature, you help preserve its beauty and sustainability so future generations can enjoy it too.