Canoeing in Siljan watercourse

About

This classic paddling trip stretches from the Siljanelva River in Telemark and ends in Lake Farris in Larvik, Vestfold. The journey starts at the bridge in Siljan and takes you through a varied landscape of rivers, lakes, and historical sites, including Vestfold's largest lake, Farris.

Recommended Duration: This is a long trip, and it is recommended to set aside a couple of days to fully enjoy the nature, the paddling, and to handle the necessary portaging of equipment.

1. Stage: Start in Siljanelva River to Lake Gorningen (Approx. 6 km)

The trip begins at the bridge in Siljan.

Siljanelva to Gonsholtbrua Bridge (Approx. 4 km): A nice starting leg. Be aware of small rapids – in high water conditions, great caution must be exercised, and most people choose to portage the canoe/kayak under the bridge.

Across Lake Gorningen to the Dam (Approx. 2 km): From Gonsholtbrua, you paddle into Siljan's large lake, Gorningen. At the dam at the southern end, you will find a nice resting spot with a shelter (gapahuk), benches, and grilling facilities near Damstua.

2. Stage: Challenges and History Towards Lake Lakssjø

On this stretch, you will face several challenges with portaging, which is dependent on the water flow. A cart/canoe trolley is recommended due to the gravel roads.

Historical Stop: Feel free to take a detour to the small island of Børja in the southeast of Gorningen to see the remains of an old hill fort. Below the dam, parts of an old timber chute have also been restored.

Alternatives for Transport to Lake Lakssjø (Approx. 1–1.5 km)

Main Alternative (Approx. 1 km): Portage the equipment along the gravel road (not over the dam). The road gently descends to Lake Lakssjø (a small hilltop first).

Alternative Route via Lake Lau: Carry/wheel the craft from the west side of the Gorningen dam a couple of hundred meters down to Lake Lau. Paddle across Lau and Lille Lau. Then, carry/wheel approximately 500 meters down to Lake Lakssjø near Kistebrua Bridge. Here you can see the Kistefossen Waterfall.

3. Stage: Lake Lakssjø and Downstream to Farris

At the Outlet of Lake Lakssjø: You reach the old needle dam, where you must come ashore again. The rapids here can be quite powerful if the water is high.

Portaging at Moholt Ironworks: The best option here is to carry or wheel the canoe to below Moholt Ironworks. Follow the asphalt road for about 1 km. Take the boat out at the south end of Lakssjø.

4. Stage: River Landscape and Lake Farris (The Goal)

From Verksbrua Bridge to Farris: The final river leg offers a more open landscape with views of fields and farms.

Lake Farris (Approx. 20 km): The lake is about 20 km long. Note: In strong winds, there can be large waves. In calm conditions, this is a beautiful paddling lake with good camping and resting spots. Feel free to spend extra days exploring the various fjords and islands in Farris.

Conclusion: The trip can be concluded at the small boat harbor in the southeast of Farris, within the Kilenhalvøya peninsula in Larvik.