Destinations,  Flåm,  Outdoor Activities,  Things to do

5 Great Outdoor Activities in Flåm, Norway

Flåm is one of Norway’s most spectacular outdoor destinations, offering a mix of breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-filled activities. Whether you’re looking for a short hike, an unforgettable view of the fjord, or a thrilling adventure, Flåm has something for everyone. As a local, I’ve enjoyed these activities firsthand, and they’re some of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of this area.

I have already covered the best things to do in Flåm here, so this post is for those of you looking specifically for activities that have more of an outdoorsy vibe to them.

5 Best Outdoor Activities in Flåm

Here are five must-try outdoor adventures in Flåm that will make your trip unforgettable. Even if you have just one day, consider adding one of these to your plans.

#1 Brekkefossen Waterfall Hike (an easy-moderate, short hike)

If you want a rewarding hike without spending your whole day on the trail, the Brekkefossen hike is a perfect choice. The trail starts just a short distance from the village of Flåm, making it easy to access, even if you’re short on time.

The hike is a bit steep, but it’s relatively short – about 1,5 to 2,5 hours round trip (depending on your pace and how long you spend at the top). This makes it manageable for most people. Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by a panoramic view of Flåm, the Aurlandsfjord, and the surrounding valley.

It’s one of those moments that makes the effort completely worth it, and the roaring Brekkefossen waterfall next to you makes it even better!

Local Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; the trail can get slippery after rain. Bring a bottle of water and a camera, you’ll want to capture the view!

Love hiking when traveling? Head this way to read all my recommended hikes in the Flåm and Aurlandsfjord area!

brekkefossen waterfall, flam norway

#2 Kayaking on the Aurlandsfjord

There’s nothing quite like being on the water, surrounded by towering cliffs and peaceful fjord landscapes. Kayaking on the Aurlandsfjord is one of the best ways to connect with the stillness and beauty of the area.

You can book guided tours that take you along the fjord, giving you the chance to paddle at your own pace while learning about the local history and geology. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the fjord from a different perspective, as you’re completely immersed in the environment.

The kayak rentals (and tour starting point) is at the very end of the beach in Flåm.

Local Tip: Try a morning or evening tour for calmer water and softer light—it’s perfect for photos and a quieter experience.

#3 Flåm Zipline

For thrill-seekers, the Flåm Zipline is an absolute must. It’s the longest zipline in Scandinavia, stretching an impressive 1,381 meters (4,531 feet) from the top of Vatnahalsen to Kårdal near the Flåm Valley.

The zipline offers a unique combination of adrenaline and jaw-dropping views. You’ll soar over the valley, with the sound of rushing rivers and waterfalls below you. It’s fast, fun, and will leave you with a huge smile on your face.

Local Tip: Pair the zipline with a ride on the Flåm Railway. You can take the train to Vatnahalsen, zipline down, and then rent a bike or walk the rest of the way into Flåm.

I’ve covered the zipline in more detail here!

#4 RIB Fjordsafari

For those who want to get closer to the fjord’s most dramatic features, a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) Fjordsafari is the way to go. These fast, small boats allow you to get real close to all of the the fjord’s features.

The longer tours cover both the Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord, so you’ll see the best of both worlds. Your guide will share stories about the fjord, its history, and even the local wildlife. There is also a shorter tour available that takes you through the Aurlandsfjord and to the very start of the Nærøyfjord.

Local Tip: Dress warmly, even in the summer. The boat goes fast, and the fjord wind can be chilly – it actually feels around 10 degrees colder than the air temperature when you’re going fast. It’s better to be a little hot and open your thermal suit (they provide these) than to be cold. Trust me, I do this adventure once a week every summer (through my job as an Adventures by Disney guide).

a small, red RIB boat on a fjordsafari on the aurlandfjord in norway

#5 Biking Rallarvegen

If you’re up for a full day of staying active, biking the Rallarvegen (The Navvies’ Road) is one of the most scenic cycling experiences in Norway. This historic route was originally built to service the railway line, and today, it’s a popular trail for cyclists.

The most common starting point is Finse, which you can reach by train from Flåm (changing trains in Myrdal). From there, it’s a mostly downhill ride through dramatic mountain landscapes, past waterfalls, rivers, and snowfields, before reaching the lush valley of Flåm.

The entire route is about 82 kilometers, but shorter sections are possible if you’re looking for a less demanding ride. A lot of people decide to start in Myrdal, biking just the final 20 kilometers down to Flåm.

Local Tip: If you don’t want to bring your own bike, rental options are available in Flåm and Finse. Be sure to check the weather and opening of the road – it is closed during the winter due to snow.

Ready for Adventure?

Whether you’re hiking to a viewpoint, kayaking on the fjord, or zipping through the sky, Flåm offers outdoor adventures that let you fully appreciate its natural beauty. Each of these activities provides a unique way to experience the fjord, the mountains, and everything in between.

Read next: My guide to all the hotels in Flåm and beyond!

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