Winter at Gaustatoppen

About

Gaustatoppen – Norway’s Majestic Vantage Point
At 1,883 meters above sea level, Gaustatoppen is an iconic landmark and a paradise for skiing enthusiasts. On clear days, the summit offers breathtaking views spanning one-sixth of Norway – an experience that leaves visitors in awe.

This magical mountain provides unforgettable adventures for both beginners and experienced skiers, making it the perfect destination for anyone seeking adrenaline-filled activities in stunning natural surroundings.

 

Highlights of Gaustatoppen in Winter
- Off-piste skiing from Gaustatoppen
- Gaustabanen – The railway inside Gaustatoppen
- Experience winter at Gaustatoppen
- Skiing down Gaustatoppen

The marked trail down Langefonn is considered safe in terms of avalanche risk. However, please note that all travel is associated with risks and is undertaken at your own responsibility.

Many also bring their skiing-savvy children along for the descent from Gaustatoppen.

For more daring runs, the ridge north of the tower offers challenging descents. Seven couloirs extend eastward, each with varying levels of difficulty and an average gradient of just under 40 degrees.

 

Skiing for All Levels
Gaustatoppen features a variety of slopes suitable for everyone:

For beginners: Enjoy a fun, family-friendly experience on the marked trail from Tuddalstippen to the entrance of Gaustabanen. This 2.4 km-long slope is moderately steep, with a maximum gradient of 30 degrees.

For advanced skiers: The seven couloirs on the eastern side of the mountain are a dream come true for expert skiers. With gradients ranging from 40 to 52 degrees, these spectacular runs offer a challenge comparable to the best of the Alps.

 

Gaustabanen – Your Shortcut to the Top
Winter on Gaustatoppen offers a unique experience for more than just freeriders. Gaustabanen, the historic mountain railway, provides an easy and direct route to the summit of Telemark’s highest peak. The railway, running inside the mountain, takes you to the top in just 15 minutes.

With a day pass, you can easily return to the top multiple times, maximizing your skiing experience.

Take the railway up, and enjoy a waffle in the sunshine at 1,800 meters above sea level. On clear days, the views are nothing short of spectacular.

The Gaustatoppen Turisthytte (mountain lodge) is open during Gaustabanen’s operating hours.

 

How to Reach Gaustatoppen
Outside Gaustabanen’s operating hours, you’ll need to make your way to the summit on your own. The best route is via Svineroi Seter, which takes approximately 2.5 hours to the top.

 

Safety and Responsibility
We cannot emphasize enough that all travel on Gaustatoppen is at your own risk. Weather and snow conditions can change rapidly, so it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Always check updated conditions on Varsom.no. A dedicated Facebook group, "Conditions at Gaustatoppen", also provides recent updates and allows visitors to share insights or ask questions about the conditions.

For steep couloirs and unmarked trails, we highly recommend hiring an experienced guide. Always follow the mountain safety rule: “Follow the ridge, stay safe.”

 

Parking
Parking at Gaustabanen is reserved for its' guests. Other visitors can park at Svineroi. Additionally, a free shuttle bus operates around the Gausta plateau, along with the mountain bus, Fjellbussen, connecting Gausta/Gaustatoppen and Rjukan.

 

Fjellbussen (The Mountain Bus)
The Fjellbussen runs between Rjukan and Gausta. For a summit trip to Gaustatoppen, disembark at Svineroi, where the winter trail to the top begins. Visit www.fjellbussen.no for more details.