Climb the Sherpa stairs above Reine
Ascend 1,560 stone steps to take in the world-famous vista of red rorbuer cabins and jagged Arctic peaks.
At a glance
June to September when the stone steps are free of ice and snow; midnight sun shines from late May to mid-July
Late evening under the midnight sun or early morning before thermal mist gathers
2 to 3 hours round trip from the trailhead
Steep stone stair ascent · Arctic mountain viewpoint
Demanding
Drop-in possible
Why Reinebringen offers Scandinavia's most breathtaking panorama
Reinebringen is universally recognized as the definitive vantage point of the Lofoten archipelago. From its narrow knife-edge crest 448 metres above Reinefjorden, the entire geological drama of Arctic Norway unfolds: razor-sharp granite spires plunge into sapphire bays, bridged islands link historic fishing hamlets, and red rorbuer cabins look like miniature toys scattered across sea rocks.
For decades, the scramble up Reinebringen was notorious for steep, muddy erosion that degraded the fragile hillside. Between 2016 and 2021, an extraordinary conservation initiative brought skilled Sherpa trail builders from Nepal to construct over 1,560 precision-fitted stone steps, creating a sustainable, safe ascent while preserving the mountain ecology.
Standing at the crest during the Arctic summer under the golden light of the midnight sun, with seabirds wheeling over the water below and mountains stretching into the Atlantic, is a defining European moment.
Ascending the stone stairway into the Arctic sky
Scenic walk to Ramsvik trailhead
Walk along the pedestrian path beside the E10 highway from Reine village around the scenic headland to the signposted stair entrance.
Continuous stone stair climb
Ascend steadily up 1,560 granite steps built directly into the steep slope, with rest alcoves providing breathers and coastal views.
Crest ridge arrival
Reach the wooden lookout platform and rocky crest at 448 metres, where the view of Reinefjorden and Kirkefjorden bursts into sight.
Careful descent down the staircase
Take your time descending the identical stone route, keeping a firm hand on knees and walking poles to protect your joints.
Plan your experience
When to go
Hiking is strictly recommended between June and September. In winter and early spring, ice accumulates on the stone steps, turning the staircase into a hazardous chute prone to avalanches and severe falls.
Getting there
Fly to Leknes or Svolvær and drive south along scenic highway E10, or take the car ferry from Bodø to Moskenes and drive or cycle ten minutes north to Reine. Park in Reine village and walk to the trailhead to keep the highway clear.
Booking & permits
The trail is entirely free and open to the public without reservations. Accommodation in Reine's iconic rorbuer cabins books out months in advance for peak summer.
What to bring
- Grippy trail running shoes or hiking boots with rubber soles
- Wind-resistant jacket and warm hat (ridge winds are frequently brisk)
- Trekking poles to take pressure off knees during the steep descent
- Plenty of drinking water and high-energy trail snacks
- Camera with wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive fjord panoramas
Before you go
- Park only in designated visitor car parks in Reine; do not park along the E10 road verges
- Do not attempt the climb in thick mist, freezing conditions, or heavy rainstorms
- Respect the fragile mountain vegetation by remaining strictly on the stone steps
- Allow two to three hours for the complete journey and time at the viewpoint
Official information
Always verify permits, seasonal weather conditions and access directly with public authorities:
Official regional destination guide providing trail safety guidelines, parking advice, and seasonal conditions.
National tourism authority resource for visiting Reine, rorbuer stays, and ferry timetables.
Ways to experience it
Ascend independently at your preferred pace, using the built-in stone resting alcoves to pause and hydrate as the panorama expands.
Book a guided midnight sun hike with an experienced Lofoten mountain leader who shares local geology, fishing folklore, and flora knowledge.
Certified providers & operators
Lofoten Outdoor Guides
Guided Arctic photography and midnight sun hikes
Certified local wilderness guides based in Reine and Reinefjorden.