Undoubtely the most spectacular summit hike in our area. Expect over 1.400m height meters over stony terrain during this challenging hike to the second highest peak in Rondane National Park (2.115m). Due to its pyramidal shape, Høgronden is often compared to the famous Matterhorn in Switzerland, beit less steep. Start at the parking area near Straumbu viewpoint, follow the sandy shore of the Atna river north and cross the suspension bridge to get to the other side. Go straight after the bridge and follow the red T-s in the direction of Høgronden. The first part is quite flat through dense forest with some bridged rivers. After about 1.5km stay left at the junction and keep following the red T-s. From now the track starts going upwards, still through the forest until you reach the supply road to Bjørnhollia DNT mountain cabin. Cross this road, descend into a small canyon and climb steep up again on the other side. Follow the track onwards while the woodland is gradually thinning out the higher you get. After about 4km the track turns slightly to the right before getting steeper again to reach the small but picturesque Veslkolldalen-valley on the northside of Veslkollhøe. This is a pleasant and quite easy section but be aware some parts can get swampy especially after rain. After 6km climb out of the valley to your right in order to reach a big cairn indicating a main crossroad in the national park trail network. Here you can also enjoy the first very impressive views into Langglupdalen and the surrounding highest mountains of the national park. Turn right at the cairn and follow the strenous track going up Søre Oksle (1.779m). After about 7.5km you have reached the ridge circumpassing the actual summit on its east side. It gets less steep for some time while the view, steep down into Myldingsbotn, is opening up on the right side. Continue in northwestern direction over a quite flat stony field until you see the emergency stone cabin Høgrondbue. This is a nice resting place before climbing the last 300 height meters to the actual summit of Høgronden. This is the steepest part of the hike which requires sure-footedness, some parts of scrambling and which is definitely not recommended for people with severe vertigo. But once on the summit the 360 degrees view is simply breathtaking! Same way back to Straumbu, which is a serious challenge too, especially for the knees as this means 1.400m down again.

Very good fitness, sure-footedness and navigation skills required. The track is completely signposted with red T-s all the way to the summit but be prepared for shifting weather conditions and much colder temperatures or windy conditions on the summit. It’s not uncommon there is still snow higher up even in the middle of summer. Be prepared for stony/slippery tracks, a few wetlands and some smaller river crossings. Walking sticks are recommended and bring enough warm/waterproof clothing and drinking water with you. There is no possibility to buy supplies or find shelter indoors execept for the emergency cabin at the foot of the summit.