Norway · More og Romsdal
Mardalsfossen
Once considered among the tallest waterfalls in the world, its flow has been harnessed by a hydroelectric dam since the 1970s and now runs at full natural force only during a scheduled summer release, drawing crowds who plan trips around the exact dates. Outside that window the cliff face runs nearly dry.
Once considered among the tallest waterfalls in the world, its flow has been harnessed by a hydroelectric dam since the 1970s and now runs at full natural force only during a scheduled summer release, drawing crowds who plan trips around the exact dates. Outside that window the cliff face runs nearly dry.
Mardalsfossen drops 297 metres (974 ft) on the Mardola. It is a plunge-type fall, and the nearest base for a visit is Eikesdal, with MOL the closest airport. Access to the main viewpoint is rated moderate.
Full natural flow is released only for a few summer weeks; a hydro dam diverts it the rest of the year.
What you can do here
Hiking
From ten-minute boardwalks to multi-day approaches through cloud forest.
Photography
Light angles, moonbows, spray management and the hours that actually work.
When to go
Full natural flow is released only for a few summer weeks; a hydro dam diverts it the rest of the year.
Entry: Free
Getting there
- Base townEikesdal
- AirportMOL
- CountryNorway
- RegionMore og Romsdal, Europe
- AccessModerate — a real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail
On the map
62.4667, 8.0167
Quick answers
How tall is Mardalsfossen?
Mardalsfossen drops 297 metres (974 feet). It is a plunge-type waterfall on the Mardola.
When is the best time to visit Mardalsfossen?
Peak flow is June to August. Full natural flow is released only for a few summer weeks; a hydro dam diverts it the rest of the year.
What can you do at Mardalsfossen?
Beyond the viewpoints: hiking and photography. Access to the main viewpoint is rated moderate — a real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail.
How do you get to Mardalsfossen?
The usual base is Eikesdal, and the closest airport is MOL. A real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail from there. Free.
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