Norway · Telemark
Rjukanfossen
The town of Rjukan grew up entirely around the hydroelectric potential of this falls in the early 1900s, and the surrounding valley now carries UNESCO recognition for its industrial heritage. Because it sits in shadow much of the year, the town installed giant mirrors on the mountainside in 2013 to redirect sunlight into the square below.
The town of Rjukan grew up entirely around the hydroelectric potential of this falls in the early 1900s, and the surrounding valley now carries UNESCO recognition for its industrial heritage. Because it sits in shadow much of the year, the town installed giant mirrors on the mountainside in 2013 to redirect sunlight into the square below.
Rjukanfossen drops 104 metres (341 ft) on the Måna, inside Rjukan-Notodden Industrial Heritage Site. It is a plunge-type fall, and the nearest base for a visit is Rjukan, with OSL the closest airport. Access to the main viewpoint is rated easy.
Summer snowmelt gives fullest flow; much of it is now diverted for hydroelectric power most of the year.
What you can do here
Ice climbing
In deep winter some of these falls freeze solid and become vertical ice routes.
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
Summer snowmelt gives fullest flow; much of it is now diverted for hydroelectric power most of the year.
Entry: Free
Getting there
- Base townRjukan
- AirportOSL
- CountryNorway
- RegionTelemark, Europe
- AccessEasy — a short walk or roadside viewpoint
On the map
59.85, 8.5333
Quick answers
How tall is Rjukanfossen?
Rjukanfossen drops 104 metres (341 feet). It is a plunge-type waterfall on the Måna.
When is the best time to visit Rjukanfossen?
Peak flow is June to August. Summer snowmelt gives fullest flow; much of it is now diverted for hydroelectric power most of the year.
What can you do at Rjukanfossen?
Beyond the viewpoints: ice climbing, hiking and photography. Access to the main viewpoint is rated easy — a short walk or roadside viewpoint.
How do you get to Rjukanfossen?
The usual base is Rjukan, and the closest airport is OSL. A short walk or roadside viewpoint from there. Free.
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