When to walk St. Olavsleden (Selånger to Nidaros)

On St. Olavsleden (Selånger to Nidaros), the most reliable start window is late May to August. In this stretch you get long daylight, mostly snow-free high ground, open services, and mild walking weather—typical Nordic summer: changeable, but with plenty of usable hours between showers.

Begin outside this window and you’re dealing with lingering snow, short days, and colder, wetter ground—especially over the border hills—so progress and comfort both take a hit.

Late May–June: spring turning to early summer (best for long days and fresh greens)

• Weather: A changeable mix—cloud, sunny breaks, and passing showers. Most days are cool-to-mild; nights can still feel crisp, especially away from the coast and on the uplands.
• Trail conditions: Lower valleys are well into spring, but snowmelt can leave sections damp or boggy. The high ground near the border may hold a few late patches into early June, then clears.
• Practical notes: Huge daylight helps you be flexible around showers. Expect some insects in forests and wetlands; carry repellent and a head net if you’re sensitive.

July: high summer (best all-round comfort and longest evenings)

• Weather: Mild to warm in the lowlands, cooler on the uplands. A familiar rhythm of sunny breaks and light showers, with occasional heavier bursts. Many dry intervals—good for steady progress.
• Trail experience: Grassy margins and forest tracks are at their best, and campsites see long, comfortable evenings.
• Practical notes: Still some mosquitoes in sheltered sections, though breezier open ground helps. Popular period—book beds ahead in busier stops.

August: late summer (milder, often a little calmer, fewer bugs)

• Weather: Still changeable and often cloudy, but generally mild. Showers continue with brighter spells between.
• Trail experience: Slightly cooler nights, fewer insects, berries in the woods, and a steady, relaxed feel on the trail.
• Practical notes: A good pick if you prefer cooler walking and a touch more quiet while keeping summer conditions.

September: a workable shoulder, with an autumn feel

• Weather: Cool to mild by day, chilly evenings. Frequent light showers and drizzle, with brighter breaks. The highest ground can see an early hint of wintry precipitation.
• Consider it if: You want autumn colors and don’t mind shorter days, damper spells, and a greater chance of cold snaps over the mountains.

October–April: off‑season (wintry, short days, and snow returns)

• October brings the first snows on higher ground and plenty of cold rain lower down.
• November is mostly grey and raw, flipping between sleet, rain, and intermittent snow.
• December to February are deep winter: overcast, frequent snowfall, and very short days inland. Travel becomes a winter journey rather than a hike.
• March and April remain unsettled, with freeze–thaw, wet snow, and lingering snowpack over the uplands.

Quick picks:

• Longest daylight and lively greenery: June–July
• Fewer bugs and cooler walking: August
• Quieter but wetter and cooler underfoot: late May
• Colorful but colder and more unsettled: September

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the trail.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Selånger to Nidaros, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.