Visit one of Norway’s most beautiful waterfalls with a hike to Månafossen, close to Stavanger. The Månafossen waterfall is the largest waterfall in the county of Rogaland. With a short, adventurous hike you’ll soon be standing right in front of this stunning cascade. Flying into Stavanger? Then this is an ideal first hike in Norway. I’m happy to tell you more!
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What makes Månafossen worth it?
The Månafossen waterfall, with its 90 meters of free fall, is the highest waterfall in the Rogaland county. The hike starts near the village of Frafjord. In your navigation, search for Månafossen parking (Google Maps) and you’ll park right at the start of the trail. This path is called the Månafossen Hiking Trail. In summer, parking is paid here. The fun thing about this hike is that you can already see the beautiful waterfall within about 15 minutes, though you’ll tackle an adventurous climb with chains to hold on to. After that, you can choose whether to continue further. That’s why Månafossen is one of the few hikes near Stavanger that’s truly worth your time.
Reach the Månafossen waterfall in about 15 minutes
The first part of the trail consists of climbing steps, so you’ll work up a sweat quickly. On the steepest sections there are chains to hold onto, but overall it’s relatively straightforward. Do make sure your hands are free. We saw a woman climbing up while holding a child… not exactly the safest idea, I’d say.
Along the way there are viewpoints set up to see the falls. Månafossen is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the county and the 9th-tallest waterfall in Norway. At 92 meters high, this beautiful waterfall ranks number nine. Your hike shouldn’t end here, though. You can definitely add a short extra climb of around half an hour. The path only gets easier: once you’ve done the initial ascent, you stay at the same elevation. Eventually, you can continue to the old restored mountain farm of Mån. Until 1915, people lived here at the start of the Fidjadalen valley. Even if you don’t want to go that far, it’s still nice to continue a bit — you’ve already done the toughest climb!
How busy does it get and how long does the hike take?
I spent about 1.5 hours on the hike. We took our time to enjoy lunch along the way. Don’t expect extensive cafés like we have in the Netherlands — not here or nearby. Bring your own food or lunch and enjoy!
Keep in mind this is a very popular hike near Stavanger. Norway is getting busier in summer. The trail to the Månafossen waterfall climbs up a narrow path. We started relatively early, but on the way back it was a bit of a hassle to pass all the people. If you have the chance to do this hike early or late in the day, you’ll avoid the crowds!
Månafossen Via Ferrata: for true adventurers
For more experienced hikers, there’s also the option to climb the Månafossen Via Ferrata. This route offers a thrilling and demanding experience, taking you along cliffs and overhanging rocks up towards the waterfall. It does require solid fitness and climbing experience.
We did see some climbers near the waterfall, but I didn’t personally see any nearby tours to book. If you’re interested, it’s worth doing a proper online search!
History and significance of Månafossen
Månafossen is not only a beautiful waterfall — it also has a rich history and meaning. According to old legends, the waterfall was named after the mythical Norse goddess Máni, who was associated with the moon. The waterfall was a sacred place for the ancient Vikings, where they honored the forces of nature and their gods.
The waterfall has also played an important role in the history of the Rogaland region. The waters of Månafossen and its river were once used as a power source to drive mills and other machinery. A waterfall that served a useful function for local residents!
Getting to Månafossen from Stavanger
From Stavanger (airport), it’s just over an hour’s drive to Månafossen. In the Netherlands we might call that far, but in Norway it’s nothing at all. On the map below you can see the locations of Månafossen and Stavanger. You can also find a suitable hotel along your route!
These days, Månafossen is primarily a tourist attraction — and definitely one I recommend hiking to! It was no coincidence that Månafossen was part of our 6-day hiking trip through Norway. Enjoy the Månafossen hike in Norway!
