European Long distance path E1 - Norway, Nord-Trøndelag
The place
The E1 Nord-Trøndelag section connects Trondheim (Norway's former capital and Saint Olav's city) northward to Bodø through the counties of Trøndelag and Nordland, approximately 500 km over 25–30 stages. The route traverses sub-alpine and alpine terrain through deep valleys, birch forests, fjell plateaus and coastal headlands. Crossing the Børgefjell wilderness and the Namdalen valley, this section rewards with extraordinary solitude and Norwegian mountain scenery.
Why go
Nidarosdomen cathedral in Trondheim (end/start point of Pilegrimsleden). Børgefjell National Park. Namsdalen valley — one of Norway's longest. Bindal fjord. Sub-arctic birch forest treeline transitions.
A bit of history
Trondheim (Nidaros) was the religious capital of medieval Norway, where Saint Olav's relics attracted pilgrims from across Scandinavia. The Pilgrims' Way (Pilegrimsleden) from Oslo to Trondheim ends here, and the E1 continues north into wilder territory beyond the reach of established pilgrim routes.
Getting there
Trondheim: international airport (hub for northern Norway). Bodø: airport. Train between Trondheim and Bodø (Nordlandsbanen railway — one of Europe's most scenic, 10h).
Recommended gear
Full mountain gear. Tent. Map and compass (limited signage on fjell). River crossings. Emergency PLB.
Best season
Late June to September. Snow on high fjell until late June.