Reisa Nasjonalpark

The Nordkalott Trail (Nordkalottruta) is an 800 km long marked hiking trail, leading through the border from Sulitjelma in Nordland county through the border areas of Norway, Sweden and Finland to Kautokeino in Finnmark county. This route enables you to experience northern nature at its best. The terrain varies between high mountains, deep valleys and high plateau landscape. The Nordkalott Trail passes through Reisa National Park and the surrounding areas.

The section of the Nordkalott Trail through Reisa goes between lake Ráisjávri/Reisavannet and Sieimma. The most common option is to walk from lake Ráisjávri/Reisavannet to the end of the road at Saraelv. The total distance is 61 km, which people generally spend two or three days to walk. Here is a brief description of the section of the Nordkalott Trail through Reisa and the surrounding areas.

The Sarafossen waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in Nordreisa and is a majestic sight. It’s easily accessible on foot. It’s a 3 km hike from Ovi Raishiin – Visitor Point. Alternatively, you can park at the car park on route 865, approx. 500 m before Saraelv, and walk from there. A signposted path from the car park leads around 900 m up to the waterfall.

The hike to Ørretvannet Lake is an enjoyable day trip, approximately 5,5 km one way. You can estimate about 4-6 hours for a return trip.
The starting point of the trail can be found by a sign posted car park by the Puntafossen bridge. Puntafossen waterfall is located 39 km from Storslett on the road up Reisadalen valley.

The hike follows a trail/forest road along the south – eastern side of the river into The Puntadalen Valley. After approximately 3,5 km the trail turns upwards towards the east. The trail will become unclear after a while where the trail flattens out on the same level as Ørretvannet Lake. Look for a red arrow sign right around where the trail disappears. Follow the red markings up towards the lake. The last kilometre can be wet because the trail passes mires here.

Grading: Medium – Suitable for most levels

Alternate route:

The alternate trail to Ørretvannet Lake is shorter and gives you a nice view over the Reisa Valley. The hike is approximately 3 km one way and takes about 2-4 hours return trip.
A marked starting point for the trail is found a short km south of Puntafossen waterfall along the road.

Follow the trail over the river and past the power line clearing. After a while the trail gets pretty steep and you have to climb past a ledge of 1,5meter. After this, the trail is pretty straight forward to Ørretvannet.

Grading: Easy – Suitable for most levels

You can combine the two routes and do a round trip of approximately 10km.

Happy hiking!