Summit hike to Kvigtinden/Voenjelensnjurhtjie – Børgefjells highest peak

Key info

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance (round trip): 31.8 km
Total elevation gain: 1,400 metres
Duration: 2 days
Season: July – September
Wheelchair/stroller accessible: No
Starting point: The hike begins at the Simskardet trailhead. Here, you’ll find parking, toilets, a rest area, and a lean-to shelter. Be sure to check the information boards at the trailhead — they offer useful details about the area and the route ahead.
View starting point on Google Maps

Kvigtinden / Voenjelensnjurhtjie, standing at 1,699 metres above sea level, is the highest peak in Børgefjell National Park. The summit sits on the border between the municipalities of Grane and Hattfjelldal. Often called the “Queen of Børgefjell”, Kvigtinden reveals her full splendour on clear days — though she often hides behind the clouds. Make sure to plan your hike according to the weather forecast; a clear day can offer an unforgettable reward at the top.

The view from the summit is spectacular on a clear day. To the north and northeast, you can see the northern parts of the national park and the Austre Tiplingan landscape protection area. Directly to the north stands Golvertinden, the park’s second-highest peak, and in the distance, you may glimpse the Okstindan range. To the east lies a flat highland plateau dotted with lakes, rivers, and streams, gradually rising to taller peaks along the Swedish border. Looking south, you see the southern reaches of the park and the neighbouring areas in the municipalities of Røyrvik and Namsskogan. To the west, you’ll see rugged peaks in both Børgefjell National Park and Lomsdal–Visten National Park.

Tur til Kvigtinden i Børgefjell Tore Tødås
Tur til Kvigtinden i Børgefjell Tore Tødås
Kvigtinden i overskyet vær Tore Tødås

From the trailhead to Bissegelva, the trail is laid with boardwalks for about 3.5 km. Just before the Bissegelva bridge, leave the trail and head uphill toward Bissegskardet. The first part is a gentle climb through open forest. As you reach Bissegskardet, you’ll pass through some shrubland and marshy areas, which can be tricky to cross.

The valley flattens out, and you’ll eventually reach more open terrain. On your right, you’ll see the impressive Bisseggen ridge towering above the pass. At the far end of the pass, turn left along the river flowing from Vestre Måsskardvatnet. During high water levels, this crossing can be challenging.

The climb up to Vestre Måsskardvatnet is steep and strenuous, but the terrain levels off once you reach the lake. There are good spots for pitching a tent if you plan to spend the night. From the Måsskard lakes to the summit of Kvigtinden, there’s still more than 800 metres of elevation gain. Head south by the shortest route to reach the ridge of Kvigtinden, and follow it to the top — snow cover should be expected along the way. The final stretch to the summit is steep and exposed.

View starting point on Google Maps

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