A hiking adventure: Øvre Forsland and Forslandsdalen

Welcome to Øvre Forsland! In the heart of the beautiful northern Norwegian landscape, where mountains meet the sky in a spectacular display of natural art, lies Øvre Forsland – a treasure waiting to be explored by nature lovers and adventurous souls.
Key info
Difficulty: Easy
Distance one way: Roughly 6 km
Elevation gain one way: about 120 meters
Duration one way: 1-2 hours
Season: Spring-Fall
Trailhead: Parking lot by charging station by Forslandsvatnet
View trailhead on Google Maps
The trip to the facility at the innermost part of Forslandsdalen in Leirfjord municipality is approximately 12 kilometers round trip, and the road up to the power plant is closed to car traffic. The path is a gravel road, making it suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling. The route is hilly with some longer slopes, both uphill and downhill. At the parking lot, several electric car chargers are available, so you can charge your batteries while on the trip.
A trail for everyone
Forslandsdalen can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or experience. With the hum of car traffic being a distant memory, the valley opens up as a paradise for pedestrians. The road through Forslandsdalen is an invitation to disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Along the valley, you’ll find several rest areas if you only want to walk part of the trail.



Further up, towards the Toven mountain, Forslandsdalen offers spectacular hikes surrounded by majestic rivers cascading down the mountainsides, waterfalls providing reflection for any soul standing at their base, and a mountain leading you closer to an adventure in pure natural magic. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat to meditate and recharge, or you’re an avid photographer in search of the perfect nature shot, Øvre Forsland is the place to be.
We aim to keep nature clean, so we encourage everyone to take their trash with them when they leave the area. Forslandsdalen and Øvre Forsland are waiting for you!
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 accommodation, dining and activities in the area

Bergh-brygga and Gammelskolen in Leirfjord
Leirfjord Museum is located in the old Bergh-brygga at Leland. Also, make sure to visit the beautiful Gammelskolen, which was in operation until the mid-1950s. Welcome to a journey through time!

Experience all of Helgeland with Helgeland Travel Service
Helgeland Travel Service (HTS) will gladly take you on a tour to Helgeland’s many attractions. Whether we explore the coast or inland tracts, on a clear summer day or a day with mist and rain, all of our excursions will show you the magnificent landscape of Helgeland.

Tjøtta Gjestegaard – Accommodation and café in historical surroundings
Stay close to nature experiences in historic surroundings at Tjøtta Guesthouse, conveniently located near the Seven Sisters mountain range, cultural trails, and historical sites, with excellent ferry connections for day trips to the islands along the Helgeland coast.

Restaurant Soprano – Wining and dining in Sandnessjøen
Restaurant Soprano offers a taste of Italy in rustic surroundings. During the summer, you can dine at an outdoor table, surrounded by trees, cobblestones and people strolling along the pleasant pedestrian street on which the cosy restaurant is situated.

Guided island hopping by bike to Dønna and Herøy.
Join us for a delightful guided bike tour from Sandnessjøen out to the beautiful islands of Dønna and Herøy, with stops at charming cafes and exciting shops along the way.