Hiking Description: Høyholmstindan in Vevelstad
Astrid Sommer
From the top of Høyholmstindan, 1015 meters above sea level, you will experience a breathtaking view of Vevelstad and the Helgeland coast to the west, Vistenfjorden to the north, and Lomsdal-Visten to the east.
Hiking details
Difficulty: Challenging. Steep sections with some scrambling
One-way distance: 4 km
Elevation gain:: 1000 meters
One-way hiking time: 3-4 hours
Wheelchair and stroller accessible: No
Starting point: The mountain is located in Vevelstad, which can be reached by ferry from Horn in the south or Tjøtta from Sandnessjøen in the north. The hike starts from Ytterhaugen, approximately halfway between the ferry terminals. At the parking lot, there is a sign with practical information about the hike to the summit.
View start point in Google Maps.
Statens Kartverk / Norgeskart.no
Hiking Description
Høyholmstindan consists of two peaks, one at 1015 meters and the other at 1000 meters above sea level, which can be conquered in a single hike. The view overlooking the coastline and archipelago is fantastic. However, the hike requires you to be in good physical condition, have experience with mountain terrain, and wear sturdy hiking boots. The trail is classified as black, indicating the highest difficulty level in the Norwegian Trekking Association’s trail difficulty system.
The first hundred meters are steep and demanding, but the terrain becomes easier once you pass the tree line. Along the trail, you will find red markers and cairns that guide the way. The final stretch to the summit is steep again and requires some easy scrambling. There may be exposed sections, so caution is advised. In early summer, there may still be snow at the upper parts of the trail, so it is recommended to hike in late summer. From the highest peak, there is a 300-meter traverse to Vestre Høyholmstindan at 1000 meters above sea level. The terrain between the peaks includes a couple of airy sections, but it is not more challenging than the initial ascent.
Ferries to Vevelstad
Vevelstad is located along County Road 17, also known as the Coastal Route, between Brønnøysund and Sandnessjøen. If you are coming from the south, drive from Brønnøysund and take the ferry from Horn to Andalsvågen. If you are coming from Sandnessjøen, take the ferry from Tjøtta to Forvik.
After the hike
Since Vevelstad is only accessible by ferry, you may end up with some waiting time after the hike. In that case, it is recommended to visit Handelsstedet Forvik, located beautifully near the ferry terminal in the north. Here, you will find a restaurant that serves food based on local ingredients and has its own coffee roastery. Accommodation options are also available.
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.
