Hike to Manafossen Waterfall

Follow a rugged mountain trail to majestic Manafossen, the highest and most spectacular waterfall in the region, and a sight well worth the effort.

After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a leisurely drive through the lake-dotted countryside and on to a relatively isolated natural area in the shadow of spectacular fjord. Here you will follow a rugged, sometimes steep trail that has metal steps in places and chains attached to stanchions to make the going easier.

While the hike may seem somewhat rigorous, it’s well worth the effort when you first catch sight of Manafossen, the highest waterfall in the region. Manafossen spews out of a cleft in a sheer cliff and then free falls more than 300 feet into a misty pool below.

It is a magnificent sight from any vantage point, as you will see from the several designated lookouts near the top of the trail. If the sun is shining, you may even catch sight of a rainbow in the mist. You will also enjoy a glimpse of Fidjaddalen, the emerald-green valley above the waterfall that is shaded by stands of birch trees.

During free time at Manafossen, you may explore other parts of the trail or simply relax on one of the rocky plateaus and take in one of the greatest natural spectacles in this part of Norway. Afterwards, you will retrace your steps back to the trailhead and then follow a scenic route back to the pier in Stavanger.