OUTDOOR LIFE SPRING

Hardangervidda

Are you ready to experience winter outdoor life at its best – everything from sleeping in a tent under the stars to crossing the Hardangervidda plateau on skis?

This is what you will learn:

  • Introduction to mountain skiing

  • Kiting

  • Cooperation and community

  • Mastery in various weather conditions

  • Expeditions with tent and sleeping bag

  • Establishing basecamp

  • Map and compass

  • First Aid

  • Learn to make your own tour food

  • Nutrition on a long journey

  • Ice fishing

  • Kayaking

  • Skiing in the groomers

  • Climbing

  • Trip planning

  • Winter outdoor life

  • Snow cave bivouack

A true spring adventure

When the snow settles, we take out our mountain skis and set off on top-level trips. You learn telemark turns and join longer ski trips with overnight stays outside. Winter also brings us exciting experiences such as snow cave overnight stays, kiting and basic avalanche training.

One of the year's highlights is the crossing of the Hardangervidda plateau by mountain skis and sledge. Several days on the trip give you experience in endurance, cooperation and coping with changing winter conditions - an experience you will remember for a long time.

When the spring sun shines, we go on outdoor climbing trips, hike along the coast, sleep under the open sky, kayak and do a solo day where you get to try yourself alone in nature. Spring brings new challenges, and we take advantage of the opportunities that come with the changing seasons.

The goal of the year on the outdoor life course is that you will learn to take care of yourself and thrive in nature, regardless of the weather and terrain. You will receive a broad introduction to outdoor life and learn both individually and in a group. Regardless of your background, you will face new challenges, experience mastery and build strong relationships with your hiking companions.

We want you to end the year as a safer and more independent outdoor enthusiast – ready for new trips and experiences, either alone or with others.

Best of all, you'll be sharing the entire journey with people who are also passionate about the outdoors.

Study trips

Our study trip: Hardangervidda

One of the year's highlights is a ten-day expedition across the Hardangervidda plateau. The trip starts at Finse, and together we cross the entire plateau on mountain skis and sledges.

  • Throughout the year, we gradually build progression on mountain skiing. Step by step, you learn to handle winter outdoor activities – from day trips to longer expeditions.

    Before departure, we plan the route, practice skills, and go through what is needed to be well-equipped. When we head out, we encounter beautiful days skiing, nights in tents, and challenges we solve together.

    This is not just a physical trip, but also a social experience. The community in the group becomes strong when you share both the hardships, the overcoming and the joys along the way.

    The goal is for you to be left with the experience, confidence and knowledge to be able to plan and carry out long winter trips on your own – and at the same time have memories of a community that will stay with you going forward.

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Equipment list 

For an active year with outdoor life in challenging West Norway nature, you need some equipment.

The overview below covers the personal equipment you will need. Remember that good old equipment is often just as useful as the newest model, so look in your attic or borrow from your loved ones! Included in the price, all students at Sogndal Folk High School receive a training pass at the Sports Center with access to all facilities, and a lift pass at Sogndal Ski Center.

  • • Shell jacket and shell pants (windproof, waterproof and durable)
    • Hiking pants
    • Hat and scarf (preferably wool)
    • Woolen mittens and gloves (simple and warm – affordable ones can be found at Biltema/Felleskjøpet)
    • 2 sets of wool underwear
    • A warm mid-layer (wool sweater, Primaloft or down jacket)
    • Workout clothes and sneakers (indoor and outdoor – old clothes work fine)

    • Shell mittens

    • Warm down jacket


  • • Daypack (approx. 40 liters)
    • Sleeping mats (for winter you need 2)
    • Plate, cutlery and cup
    • Drinking bottle that can withstand boiling water (e.g. Nalgene – also sold at school)
    • Headlamp (doesn't have to be advanced)
    • Map folder and compass (360 degrees)
    • Stationery
    • Thermos
    • First aid kit (sports tape, chafing plasters, individual pack, painkillers)
    • Travel insurance
    • European Health Insurance Card
    • Passport
    • Simple bicycle (for use on asphalt in the local area)
    • Bicycle helmet
    • Backpack of approximately 70 liters
    • Warm sleeping bag (comfort down to -20°C)
    • Knife
    • Sunglasses and sunscreen
    • Ski boots, mountain skis and poles
    • Ski traps
    • Leggings
    • Shovel and search rod
    • Winter sleeping bag (-20 °C)
    • Ski goggles
    • Sheet bag

Our outdoor education teacher:

Pål Korsnes Støylen

Pål has an extensive educational background that includes a master's degree in physical education, sports and outdoor life. He is also a trained agronomist and educator, which gives him broad expertise in both scientific and educational areas, and he exudes a comprehensive knowledge base in his teaching and guidance of students.

Pål with an Å has endless enthusiasm and is eager to get the most out of life. He's keen to get the best out of everyone around him, which he does with a twinkle in the eye and an appropriate comment. It's incredibly easy to fall in love with this talented, calm guy with a huge range of interests.

paal@sogndal.fhs.no 482 67 398

Apply now