Flåm Line

The Flåm Line is a 20.2 km railway branch in Vestland, Norway, running between the mountain junction at Myrdal and the fjord village of Flåm; it opened in 1940 and is noted for its extreme gradients. It is a well-known scenic railway that connects the inner Sognefjord area with the national rail network.

The route drops about 865 m over 20.2 km and includes steep sections up to roughly 5.5% gradient, numerous tunnels and several dramatic waterfalls. Highlights for visitors include panoramic fjord vistas, a stop at Kjosfossen waterfall and views over the Aurlandsfjord near Flåm. Trains are timed to connect with local ferry and cruise services at Flåm, making it part of many fjord itineraries.

Construction began in the early 20th century as a branch off the Bergen Line and the line opened for traffic in 1940; it was built to link inland rail with the fjord ports and later grew in importance for tourism. Over time the line shifted from a primarily local transport role to a major scenic attraction.

The railway runs between the mountain station of Myrdal on the Bergen Line and the village of Flåm on the Aurlandsfjord, part of the Sognefjord system in Vestland county. The terrain is steep and alpine for much of the route, with the low terminus at the fjord and the high terminus at the mountain junction.

• Length and gradient: The route is 20.2 km long with very steep sections that reach about 5.5% gradient and a total descent of roughly 865 m.
• Kjosfossen stop: Trains stop at Kjosfossen, a major photographic highlight where passengers get direct views of the waterfall.
• Best time to visit: Peak tourist season is summer for long daylight and fjord views; winter offers snowy alpine scenery but shorter daylight and fewer services.

What to See #

• Flåm: Terminus at the village on the Aurlandsfjord, serving as the lowland end of the line and a hub for fjord cruises and local tourism.
• Myrdal: Mountain junction on the Bergen Line at roughly 866 m above sea level, linking long-distance rail with the branch line.
• Kjosfossen: A short stop and viewing platform beside a prominent waterfall on the route where trains pause for photos and views.
• Vatnahalsen: Small mountain station and hotel stop used by walkers and as an intermediate boarding point for some services.