Aursjøvegen mountain road

Aursjøvegen was originally built as a construction road in 1947–50, and is today an adventurous mountain road through demanding terrain. The road winds from Eresfjord up through Finnsetlia, inwards towards the dam at Aursjøen (862 masl) and down through Torbudalen and Litldalen to Sunndalsøra. You can drive the route from both Eikesdal and Sunndal.

Nature attractions along Aursjøveien

Near the highest point of the road lies the rock formation Aurstaupet, just 400 metres from the road, a many-hundred-metre-tall cliff that will give most visitors a real rush. Follow the signs from the road. Note that the parking area is small; be aware of oncoming traffic and park in a way that allows other vehicles to pass.

Along the road you will find two potholes – one in Finnsetlia, about 100 metres from the road, and one just by the roadside as you come down towards Litldalen. Both are signposted and offer a refreshing experience if you choose to take a dip. From the pothole in Litldalen you also get a great view down the valley and onto the hairpin bends.

Hiking trails, viewpoints and picnic areas

Along Aursjøvegen you will find marked hiking trails, viewpoints, picnic areas and several mountain lakes suitable for fishing and canoeing. Aursjøhytta mountain lodge by Aursjødemningen is staffed from June toSeptember and has a self-catering section open all year round.

For an easy scenic walk, we recommend the Old Railway Trail on the Sunndal side, a disused railway line along a mountain ledge at over 800 masl, suitable for both walking and cycling. For an extra challenge, you can cycle the entire route from Eikesdalen to Sunndalsøra (approx. 70 km). Remember lights and reflectors for the unlit spiral tunnel in Finnsetlia.

Be a considerate guest in the wild reindeer's habitat

Aursjøvegen runs through one of the most important habitats for wild reindeer in Europe. More than 90 percent of the wild reindeer population lives in Norway, giving us a particular responsibility to protect this species. Wild reindeer are classified as near threatened, and human activity in vulnerable areas is one of the biggest threats to the population.

When visiting this area, we ask you to follow a few simple guidelines:

Stay on the road and at designated stopping points.

Keep your distance and move away quietly if you spot wild reindeer.

Use binoculars and do not go closer. The best nature experiences happen from a distance.

Take your litter home. The national park is the wild reindeer's habitat.

More information about the national park can be found at dovrefjell-sunndalsfjella.no.

Practical information and safety

For your own safety, please be aware of the following:

The stretch from Eikesdal to Aursjøhytta and the hillside from Sunndalsøra through Litldalen can be a challenging drive due to a narrow gravel road that in several places lacks crash barriers.

Not recommended for caravans or larger motorhomes.

The tunnel is dark and winding with no lighting, drive with extra care.

The road is narrow in places and passes through very steep terrain.

Rockfall can occur in certain areas. The road may close during heavy rainfall or unusually high rockfall risk.

The road is a toll road with automatic payment via passpay.no.

The road opens in June once the snow has cleared, usually from 1 June, but the opening may be later following cold winters. The road remains open until snowfall in October.

Please drive carefully, show consideration for other road users, and take your time to fully experience the impressive nature and cultural history of the area.

Guided experiences in Northwest Norway

If you want to explore this magnificent mountain landscape in a safe and responsible way, we recommend joining a guided activity. You will find a range of guide companies in the region. Check out Contrast Adventure, DID Adventure, Urpu Ski & Mountain Guiding and Guide Romsdal for tailor-made activities.