A hiking adventure: Marsøra - a lovely hike along the Vefsna river
Terje Rakke, NordicLife / Visit Helgeland
Go on a nice stroll along the Vefsna river, with views over the wharves along the historic street, Sjøgata.
Key info
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Season: Year-round, but during the winter the road may get closed if there’s a risk for avalanches.
Distance one way: About 1,5 kilometers
Ascent one way: Mostly flat
Duration one way: 20 – 40 minutes
Trailhead: The hike starts at the parking lot by Helgelandstrappa, directly south of the bridge crossing the Vefsna river.
Find the trailhead on Google Maps
Google Maps
Marsøra is situated close to the town center on the other side of the Vefsna river, which flows out near Mosjøen. Here, you will find a lean-to shelter, barbecue, tables, benches, and toilet facilities.
The route to Marsøra is suitable for both adults and children, whether you’re on foot, in a wheelchair, on a bike, or with a stroller. It’s mostly flat and nice, but there are a few steep sections that might be challenging for wheelchair users.
Historically in the area, there has been boat building and timber rafting, and you will come across remnants from this era at several locations along the river.
Thank you for respecting the local communities, and for helping us preserve the natural beauty of Helgeland!
Please:
- Strive to leave no trace of your visit. Bring back all your rubbish, including used toilet paper, and discard it in the nearest rubbish bin.
- Plan your toilet visits and use the opportunity when you pass a toilet. In the wilderness, make sure you are not a nuisance to others.
- Respect the local wildlife. Keep a good distance from wildlife, livestock and birds. Keep your dog leashed.
- Respect private property. Keep a respectful distance from houses and cabins.
- Show good boating sense. Keep a good distance from shore and drive at a low speed, especially when you are close to anyone or anything on the water, including birds or animals. Avoid loud and disturbing engine noise. Be aware that some islands and nature reserves are important nesting sites, and that going ashore is prohibited during the nesting season.
- Follow the Norwegian Mountain Code (Fjellvettreglene). Plan your excursion according to the weather forecast, your skills and experience.
- Join a guided excursion or consider hiring an experienced guide, especially when you don’t have sufficient experience or knowledge to guarantee a safe trip.
Find accommodations, dining options, and activities nearby.
The Stair Way
Pack both your hiking and city shoes, and come along to the café city of Mosjøen. Here, you’ll experience the historic Sjøgata, the food and atmosphere at the venerable Fru Haugans Hotel, and the magnificent journey up the mountains stairs of Helgelandstrappa, the world’s longest mountain staircase and one of Helgeland’s most popular natural attractions.
Gilles Cafe & Restaurant in Mosjøen
This cozy cultural café in Mosjøen is located at the “beginning” of Sjøgata and offers good food, coffee, and both small and large concerts throughout the year.
Kippermoen Pool and Sports Center
With a large exercise pool, hot therapy pool and paddling pool, diving board, and waterslide, the pool facility at Kippermoen Sports Center is excellent for your entire family. And at the rest of the sports center, you can find a squash court as well as a versatile outdoor sportspark.
Kulturverkstedet Mosjøen – A cultural workshop
The cultural workshop in the old town, Sjøgata in Mosjøen, is a unique environment where past and present blend together.
Fru Haugans Hotel in Mosjøen
The venerable Fru Haugans Hotel, part of the “Heimr Collection” chain, is located at the end of Sjøgata, the historic and preserved district in the center of Mosjøen.
