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.
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, food, and activities nearby.
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