A hiking adventure: Queens Route in The Seven Sisters
Thomas Schei
The Queen’s Route takes you to the summits of the two northernmost peaks of The Seven Sisters: Botnkrona (1072 meters above sea level) and Grytfoten (1018 meters above sea level). It’s a magnificent hike, following the path that the Queen Sonja took when she visited the Seven Sisters for the first time.
Key info
Degree of difficulty: Demanding.
Recomended season: Mid June to October
Distance one way: Approximately 13-15 km
Ascent one way: Around 1000 meters to Botnkrona, with an additional 150 meters if you continue to Grytfoten.
Duration one way: 5 – 8 hours
Trailhead: The mountain range is located just outside Sandnessjøen, with parking available along Markvollveien. There are clear signs at all starting points for the different peaks.
The hike begins at the parking lot near the power station on Markvollveien and follows a well-marked trail. After about 15 minutes of walking, you’ll reach a clearly marked fork in the path. One way goes to the peak Botnkrona and the other to Grytfoten. Take a left to ascend Botnkrona first. After a short distance on this trail, you’ll reach Fjellsåsdammen, a popular local hiking destination in Sandnessjøen. From the lake, continue following the marked trail further up the mountain. You’ll encounter some steep sections along the way, which are secured with ropes to assist you.
At around 970 meters of elevation, you’ll reach another fork in the trail. Take a right and scramble up to the summit of Botnkrona. Be cautious as the terrain is rocky and uneven both on the ascent and descent. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sandnessjøen and the Helgeland coastline.
To descend from Botnkrona, retrace your steps along the same trail. If you’re heading down from the mountain, turn left again. Or continue to the right if you’re heading to Grytfoten. Follow the ridge between the peaks for about one kilometer until the trail splits once more. Take a right to reach Grytfoten. The summit is slightly lower but steeper than its “big sister” Botnkrona. Note that the peak is divided, and you should ascend the westernmost part. As long as you stay on the trail, it’s easy to find the right way.
When descending, the easiest route is to follow the trail down from the summit and then turn right (west), following the path between the Grytfoten and Skjæringan peaks. At the base of the mountain, you’ll reach the same fork in the trail as you encountered at the start of the hike. Take a left to return to the parking lot.
Find accommodation, food, and activities nearby.
Sandnessjøen Camping
Sandnessjøen camping is located at Steiro along the Rv 17, 10 kilometers south of Sandnessjøen. Sandnessjøen Camping is just a short walk from the mountains De Syv Søstre and the local airport.
Hotel Scandic Seven Sisters – Accomodation Sandnessjøen
As a guest, you will immediately realize why the Hotel Scandic Syv Søstre bears the name of the Seven Sisters mountains. The hotel enjoys a great view of these renowned mountains. A holiday base here is perfect for exploring the many island treasures of the Helgeland coast, including Dønna and its colourful history, the idyllic island of Herøy, and the Vega archipelago, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lamesa – The taste of Asia in Helgeland
Lamesa Asian Fusion combines Asian dishes with Norwegian ingredients for a delightful culinary experience. The restaurant is located next to Kulturbadet and Scandic Syv Søstre in downtown Sandnessjøen, making it perfect for a night out with friends, a quiet evening with your partner, or a dinner with the whole family.
Kulturbadet in Sandnessjøen
With a swimming pool, cinema, library, and theater all under one roof, Kulturbadet in Sandnessjøen offers activities for the whole family and then some!
Guided island hopping by bike to Dønna and Herøy.
Take a guided bike ride from Sandnessjøen to the scenic islands of Dønna and Herøy, with stops at charming cafés and unique local shops along the way.
