Mardalsfossen
Waterfall Spectacular high waterfall known for dramatic drop
Along a steep valley in Møre og Romsdal, Mardalsfossen offers one of Norway’s tallest seasonal drops; hikers come for waterfall viewpoints, alpine ridgelines and the long approaches that reveal spring flow and cascades.
Mardalsfossen is a tall waterfall in Møre og Romsdal county, Norway, known for its steep multi-stage drop and prominence in the local landscape. It is regarded as one of the higher waterfalls in the country.
Visitors primarily come to view the powerful cascade from nearby viewpoints and short trails that provide framed panoramas of the fall. Photo opportunities and short walks to vantage points are the main on-site attractions; the visual volume of the waterfall varies seasonally and with regulated releases.
Hydropower development in the region led to regulation of water flows in the 20th century, and since then the waterfall’s discharge has been influenced by management for energy production and occasional planned releases for tourism.
The falls are situated in Møre og Romsdal county in western Norway, within a mountain valley setting reached from local roads and trails in the broader region.
- Regulated flow: Water flow is regulated for hydroelectric and water management purposes, with seasonal or controlled releases that affect when the falls are at full volume.
- Viewing and timing: There is a short footpath and viewpoints that give close views of the cascade; best visual impact is often in late spring or early summer when meltwater increases flow.
How to Get to Mardalsfossen #
Mardalsfossen is accessed via local roads off the E136 in Møre og Romsdal. Nearest towns vary by route; check regional travel information for current access roads and parking.
Tips for Visiting Mardalsfossen #
- The footpath to the falls can be wet and muddy-arrive with good footwear and expect splash zones near the viewing platforms.
- Visit early in the day to avoid afternoon coach traffic; summer weekends draw more local visitors.
- Combine the visit with nearby mountain routes if planning a longer outdoor day; local maps are available at trailheads.
Best Time to Visit Mardalsfossen #
Late spring to summer is best for water flow and access; check road conditions in shoulder seasons.
Weather & Climate near Mardalsfossen #
Mardalsfossen's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -8°C to 12°C. Abundant rainfall (1229 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -4°C and lows of -8°C. Significant rainfall (134 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -4°C and lows of -8°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -7°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -2°C. Significant rainfall (127 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -6°C. Significant rainfall (127 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -8°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (149 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
