Sculpture hike Vidsyn - Oksatjønn

About

The trail starts at Vierli Kafeteria by the subway under the main road. Follow the marked trail to the top of Mount Vierlinuten (1,100 m above sea level). The Vision sculpture stands on top of the mountain. Take a break and enjoy the amazing views across the Hardangervidda Plateau and Raulandsfjell mountains. Continue along the trail across the ridge towards Lake Oksatjønn. Parts of the trail are gritted, and it eventually turns into a dry path. There is some marshland along the route with footbridges to keep your feet dry. The route is clearly marked and can be extended by making a detour to Silkeldalen (4 km).

Created by artist Hilde Mæhlum, the Vision sculpture aims to amuse and bemuse locals and visitors alike. Look at the polished front of the sculpture, and you will see that the figure's nose is in fact inverted. Since early childhood our brain has been teaching us that the human nose points forward with the eyes right behind it. But take a few steps back, relax and squint a little, and you will discover that your brain takes over and puts it right: the nose is pointing forward as it should, and your brain has created a sensible version of the sculpture all inside your head! What s even more strange: walk slowly past the sculpture while staring at it, and it will follow you with its eyes. If you stand to the east of it, the sculpture looks east. If you stand to the west, it looks west. It certainly lives up to its name.

From the Vision sculpture you have views of the serene Lake Møsvatn. Did you know that you are in fact looking at a Unesco World Heritage Site? Groundbreaking industry using hydroelectric power has existed here for more than 100 years. Lake Møsvatn has been dammed three times since 1903 and is the very source of the industrial history that has been written in the Rjukan

Notodden region and the emergence of the Norwegian welfare state. The damming up of the lake had a major impact on local residents. They went from living in a picturesque mountain village to island dwellers. There is no road to the village, and the lake remains the only transport route both in summer and in winter. As you take in the views, you can almost imagine the farms and grazing land hidden under the surface.

Be a sustainable hiker
When exploring nature, it's essential to practice responsible behavior to preserve and respect the natural environment. This includes staying on the marked trails to avoid damaging ecosystems, taking your litter with you, and respecting local rules and restrictions. Make sure to avoid disturbing wildlife and be mindful of any special considerations related to protected areas. By acting responsibly during your outdoor activities, you contribute to maintaining the beauty and sustainability of nature, ensuring future generations to be able to enjoy it as well.