Valdresflya by bike — everything you need to know
Complete guide to cycling up to Valdresflya (1389 masl). Distance, elevation, opening times, tips and practical info for the ride up from Fagernes and Beitostølen.
Valdresflya is Valdres' iconic cycling route — a long climb from the valley floor to open mountain plateau with views toward Jotunheimen. Here is everything you need to know to plan the trip.
What is Valdresflya and why is it special for cyclists?
Valdresflya is a high mountain plateau in Valdres at 1389 masl, reached via Rv51 from Fagernes. The cycling route is 22 km and 1020 hm of elevation gain from Fagernes — one of the most spectacular cycling climbs in Innlandet. The road typically opens in June and closes in September.
Key figures
From Fagernes (full stage):
From Beitostølen (short version):
The route in detail
From Fagernes (recommended — full experience)
The route follows Rv51 the entire way and is paved from start to finish.
Km 0–15 (Fagernes–Beitostølen): The first 15 km are moderate with 480 hm of elevation. The gradient is steady and rhythmic — a good warm-up. Passes through Leira (km 12) and up to Beitostølen (km 15, 936 masl).
Km 15–22 (Beitostølen–Summit): This is where it gets interesting. The final 7 km have 450 hm — averaging 6.4%, with sections up to 9%. The road winds up above the treeline and out onto the open mountain. The last kilometre, as you pass through the gate and onto Valdresflya, is one of the greatest experiences you can have on a bike in Norway.
From Beitostølen (shorter alternative)
Starts in Beitostølen centre and climbs 7 km to the top. Ideal for those staying in Beitostølen who want to do Valdresflya as a two-hour ride. The descent back is spectacular.
Opening times and closure
Rv51 over Valdresflya is one of Norway's highest winter-closed roads and opens depending on snow conditions:
- Earliest opening: End of May (good years)
- Normal opening: 10–20 June
- Normal closure: October
- Check status: vegvesen.no/trafikk — search "Rv51 Valdresflya"
The road can be temporarily closed during extreme weather even in midsummer. Always check the day before.
Tips for the ride
Start early. Valdresflya can become windy and cold later in the day. Morning hours are often calm and clear.
Bring food. There are no shops on the route after Beitostølen. Bring at least 500 kcal extra and 2+ litres of water.
Dress in layers. At the top it can be windy and the temperature is 8–12°C lower than in Fagernes. A packable windproof jacket is essential.
Return option: bus. Valdresekspressen stops at Valdresflya in summer. You can cycle up and take the bus down to Fagernes. Check timetables at nor-way.no.
Bike type. Road bike with 28–32 mm tyres works fine. If you have a gravel bike, it's nothing but advantages — the road is wider and more comfortable.
The top of Valdresflya
At the summit (1389 masl) you will find:
- Panoramic views toward Jotunheimen, Filefjell and Golsfjellet
- Rest area with benches
- Summer restaurant in high season (July–August)
- Information board about mountain plants and wildlife
From the top you can continue toward Gjendesheim and Bessheim for bikepacking adventures into Jotunheimen.
Frequently asked questions
Is Valdresflya suitable for beginners? No. 1020 hm over 22 km requires a reasonable level of fitness. An e-bike is an excellent alternative and makes the ride accessible to far more people.
Can you cycle back down without brake problems? Yes, but take care. Rv51 is wide and well paved, but 22 km downhill is hard on the brakes. Check your brakes before setting off and take breaks on the way down.
Is traffic a hazard? Rv51 has moderate traffic in high season. Drivers are used to cyclists and the road is wide enough. Stay visible with a reflective vest or bright clothing.
Last updated: March 2026. Road status from Statens vegvesen.