Guided hike in Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape
Geological wonders, Sámi history, and wilderness landscapes in Øvre Dividal
Experience one of the most fascinating geological sites in Northern Norway on a private guided hike in the outskirts of Øvre Dividal National Park. Discover the Giant’s Kettles, walk across the dramatic Finn Bridges, and learn about the natural and cultural history of one of Norway’s most remote wilderness areas.
Location
Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape, Northern Norway
This experience takes place in Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape, one of Norway’s largest protected wilderness areas. The hike leads through pine forests, across the Finn Bridges, and through areas with important cultural history.
Duration
6 hours
Group type
Private
Season
Summer & autumn
Type
Nature, geology & cultural hiking
Price: From NOK 4000 per adult
Quick facts
DURATION: 6 hours
START TIME: 09:00am
SEASON: Summer & autumn (May-October)
GROUP: Private (2 to 8 persons)
AGE LIMIT: 10 years
MEETING POINT: Høgtun Kulturklynge
LANGUAGES: English and Norwegian
INCLUDED: Local guide, transportation, lunch, hot beverages
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
SUITABLE FOR: Nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, photographers, cultural travellers
Overview
The Giant’s Kettles experience takes you deep into the landscapes of Divi Valley and Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape, where rivers, forests, and ancient geological forces have shaped a remarkable wilderness.
After meeting your guide at Høgtun Kulturklynge, you travel through the national park region toward the trailhead. A short but scenic hike leads through pine forest terrain to the Giant’s Kettles, circular rock formations carved by glacial meltwater and river currents over thousands of years.
Along the route, you will cross the historic Finn Bridges above the Divi River and explore dramatic canyon landscapes while learning about Sámi culture, local settlement history, and the natural processes that formed this unique environment.
The experience combines geology, storytelling, and Arctic nature in one of Northern Norway’s least visited wilderness areas.
About Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape
Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape is one of Northern Norway’s largest protected wilderness areas and serves as an important buffer zone surrounding Øvre Dividal National Park. The area was protected to preserve its distinctive natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and ecological value while allowing traditional use of the land to continue.
The landscape is shaped by powerful natural forces. Deep river valleys, ancient pine forests, glacial deposits, wetlands, and rugged mountain terrain create a diverse environment that supports a rich variety of Arctic plants and animals. The Divi River cuts through the valley, forming dramatic canyons, rapids, and geological features such as the Giant’s Kettles.
For centuries, these landscapes have been used by Sámi communities, hunters, fishers, and settlers. Reindeer migration routes still pass through the area, and traces of traditional land use can be found throughout the valley. The protected landscape preserves both natural and cultural values, reflecting the long relationship between people and nature in Northern Norway.
The area is also known for its wildlife. Moose are regularly seen in the valley, while wolverine, lynx, bear, and numerous bird species inhabit the surrounding wilderness. Wildlife sightings are always possible but can never be guaranteed.
Unlike many well-known destinations in Northern Norway, Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Visitors come here to experience silence, wide-open landscapes, geological wonders, and a deeper connection with the natural world.
The Giant’s Kettles hike offers an introduction to this remarkable landscape, combining geology, history, culture, and wilderness exploration in one of the most authentic outdoor areas in Arctic Norway.
What are the Giant's Kettles?
The Giant’s Kettles of Dividal are among the most remarkable geological formations in Northern Norway. These smooth, circular holes in the bedrock were created thousands of years ago during and after the last Ice Age.
As glaciers melted, powerful streams of water carried stones and gravel into natural depressions in the rock. Over time, the swirling water caused the stones to rotate like giant drills, gradually carving deep circular holes into the bedrock. Geologists refer to these formations as potholes, while the traditional Norwegian name is jettegryter, meaning “giant’s kettles.”
Some of the kettles found along the Divi River are several metres deep and provide visible evidence of the immense forces that shaped the landscape after the retreat of the glaciers.
Today, the Giant’s Kettles are protected as part of the natural heritage of Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape and National Park. They offer visitors a unique opportunity to stand beside geological features that tell the story of Northern Norway’s Ice Age history.
During the hike, your guide explains how glaciers, rivers, and thousands of years of erosion created the formations visible today, helping you understand the landscape through both science and local storytelling.
Why this tour is unique
Discover one of Northern Norway's hidden geological treasures
The Giant’s Kettles are among the most remarkable geological formations in the region. These natural rock formations reveal the immense power of glaciers and rivers that shaped the landscape after the last Ice Age.
Learn from a local wilderness guide
Throughout the experience, your guide shares stories about geology, local history, Sámi culture, and the natural processes that continue to shape the Dividal landscape today.
Explore beyond the typical tourist routes
Unlike many popular destinations in Northern Norway, Dividal remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Visitors experience genuine wilderness rather than crowded viewpoints.
Experience culture and nature together
The tour combines natural history with human history, offering insight into traditional Sámi use of the landscape and the stories of settlers who lived in the valley.
What you will experience
Visit the Giant's Kettles
Discover impressive geological formations created by powerful glacial and river forces over thousands of years.
Walk across the Finn Bridges
Cross historic bridges above the rushing Divi River and enjoy dramatic views into the canyon below.
Explore Arctic forest landscapes
Follow trails through ancient pine forests and experience one of Northern Norway’s most remote wilderness regions.
Learn about Sámi culture and local history
Hear stories about the people who have travelled, hunted, and lived in these landscapes for generations.
Enjoy a wilderness lunch
Relax with a warm lunch, coffee, and tea surrounded by the scenery of Divi Valley.
Typical tour itinerary
1. Welcome and introduction
Meet your guide at Høgtun Kulturklynge for coffee, introductions, and a short safety briefing.
2. Scenic drive to Dividal
Travel through the Målselv Valley toward Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape and National Park.
3. Hike to the Giant’s Kettles
Follow forest trails toward the geological formations and canyon viewpoints.
4. Explore the Finn Bridges and canyon
Learn about the area’s geology, wildlife, and cultural history while exploring the landscape.
5. Wilderness lunch
Enjoy a warm lunch with coffee and tea in nature or inside a wilderness cabin if weather conditions require shelter.
6. Return journey
Return through Dividal and back to Høgtun Kulturklynge.
What's included
Professional local guide
Transportation from Høgtun
National Park entrance fee
Warm packed lunch
Coffee and tea
Sit pads
Not included
Personal clothing and equipment
Travel insurance
What to bring
Hiking boots suitable for day-long hikes
Windproof outerwear
Warm layered clothing
Water bottle
Small backpack or waistpack
Difficulty and physical requirements
This experience is rated moderate.
Participants should:
- Be comfortable walking on uneven forest trails
- Manage short steep sections
- Be able to walk approximately 2 km in natural terrain
- Have suitable hiking footwear
The start of the trail includes a steep section that may be challenging for guests with limited mobility.
Safety and sustainability
Up in the Arctic promotes small-group experiences that respect wildlife, local culture, and the natural environment.
The hike follows existing trails and sensitive areas are treated with care to minimise environmental impact.
Guests staying in Bardufoss are encouraged to use local accommodation and shared transportation options whenever possible to reduce travel-related emissions.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the hike?
The hike is rated moderate and includes uneven terrain with some steep sections near the beginning of the trail.
Is this a private tour?
Yes. Only one booking is accepted per departure.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 10 years and older are welcome.
What are the Giant's Kettles?
The Giant’s Kettles are circular rock formations created by powerful glacial meltwater and river currents over thousands of years.
Is lunch included?
Yes. A warm packed lunch, coffee, and tea are included.
What should I wear?
Wear sturdy hiking boots and layered outdoor clothing suitable for changing Arctic weather conditions.
Experience summary
Activity: Guided geology + nature hike
Type: Private hiking experience
Location: Øvre Dividal Protected Landscape, Målselv, Northern Norway
Duration: 6 hours
Season: Summer & autumn (May-October)
Difficulty: Moderate
Theme: Geology, wilderness, Sámi culture, river canyons, and Arctic nature
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