Steinelvfossen waterfall in Norddalen
Highlights
- Experience a raw waterfall in a distinctive high mountain area in the Narvik region
- Follow a marked path through flat terrain along the water
- Cross a small suspension bridge before the landscape opens up to the waterfall
- Watch the water plunge into a narrow gorge between steep rock walls
- Take the trip in the summer or autumn when Norddalen is most easily accessible
Description
Steinelva is located deep in Norddalen, in the mighty mountain landscape east of Narvik. The waterfall is not primarily known for its violent drop, but for its compactness, shape and the raw frame around it. Here, thundering masses of water from the glacier at Unnariehpašvárri meet the rock walls inside a lush, moss-covered gorge that the waterfall has excavated over millennia. Walking a bit inland along the left side of the waterfall is a strong nature experience in itself.
The trip starts at the dam at Norddalen power plant. From a small gravel exit on the right side of the dam, follow a marked path along the right side of the lake. The route goes through flat high mountain terrain and follows the river delta inwards, before you cross a small suspension bridge over the river.
You hear the waterfall before you stand in front of it. The sound builds up as the path approaches the water, and at the waterfall, Steinelva gathers its power before falling into a narrow gorge. The waterfall is compact, raw and close, with wet rock, rock walls and river rushes all around you.
On summer mornings, the light can hit the waterfall spray through a narrow opening in the rock on the north side of the waterfall. When the conditions are right, the light stands as a clear vertical beam through the water haze. Steinelva is well suited for those who want to experience a waterfall on foot, without a long or demanding mountain hike.
More information
- The hike from the parking area to the waterfall is about 2 kilometers in flat terrain.
- The path is marked and follows the right side of the water from the dam.
- The hike requires that you can walk along a 2 kilometer long flat path.
- There are no facilities in the area.
- There is no WC available.
- There are four DNT Narvik cabins within walking distance of the waterfall: Lossistua, Storsteinshytta, Cunojávri cabin and Cáihnavággihytta.
- There is no safety or railing around the waterfall.
- The rocks down by the waterfall and along the sides can be slippery, especially near the edge due to water spray. Take great care.
- There is little mobile coverage in the area. Plan your trip accordingly.
- The area is suitable for children and dogs, but must be kept under supervision by water, bridges and slippery stones.
- Best time to visit the waterfall is summer and autumn.
- The right to roam applies. Statskog's Norway card for inland fishing is valid for the entire area around the waterfall.