Norway still shows traces of the Ice Age, when the entire country was covered by ice. Larger and smaller glaciers are found several places in Norway. Norwegian glaciers stretch their white capes across the mountain tops and other large areas, especially towards the west and north. The glacier reflects only blue light. It is quite unique - it is a magical light. Glaciers are beautiful, exciting and impressive. The glaciers grow and shrink, change direction and change shape and color. The largest mainland glacier is the Jostedalsbreen glacier and Briksdal glacier is a part of the Jostedal glacier icefield. Even several hundred metres thick ice is in constant motion and the arms of the glacier can grow several hundred meters in only a few years. Glaciers cover over 2600 km2 of Norway´s land area. Divided between a little over 700 glaciers in southern Norway and over 900 in northern Norway. Still over 60% of the glacier covered area is found south of Trondheim. The largest mainland glacier is the Jostedalsbreen glacier covering an area of 487 km2. The glacier is a part of the Jostedalsbreen National Park and have more than 50 glacier branches. With light playing on the ice and jade green glacial water trickling from beneath them, glaciers are truly spectacular natural phenomena. They can also be the arena for thrilling activities. WARNING!!! Never try glacier walking without being accompanied by an authorized glacier-guide. During the summer period there are guided tours on most of our glaciers. Remember to bring warm clothing, headwear, suitable footwear, gloves and sunglasses! WALKING Glacier walking is an incredible experience, but it also demands alertness, knowledge and equipment. Glaciers are constantly moving. Deep crevasses and gorges can reveal ancient secrets, but they are also dangerous. Guarantee your safety by using authorised instructors, and never venture out onto or near a glacier on your own. GLACIER HIKING Glacier walking is an exciting option for enthusiasts seeking a different and unconventional holiday. However, it is imperative that one should be accompanied by an experienced local guide. Please note: The glaciers are in motion, with the following consequences: crevasses, several metres wide and 30 - 40 metres deep, may be present. The crevasses are often covered with snow. There is always danger of ice collapsing even in front of the glacier. Never go onto a glacier without a local guide. Keep well away from steep glaciers and never venture under any glacier. It is possible to go for guided walks on several glaciers («breer» in Norwegian). Enquire the glacier centres below or the following tourist office. GLACIER CENTRES The following are glacier information centres in Western Norway. These centres offer film viewings, exhibitions, glacier models etc. (Please note these may vary). Situated in the districts where the glaciers are found. Glacier tours with guide are possible. Jostedalsbreen Nasjonalparksenter Oppstryn RV 15. Tel: +47 57 87 72 00 Fax: +47 57 87 72 01 Norsk Bremusem Fjærland. RV 5 Tel: +47 57 69 32 88 Fax: +47 57 69 32 87 Breheimsenteret Jostedalen. RV 55 - RV 604 Tel: +47 57 68 32 50 Fax: +47 57 68 32 40 These are the largest glaciers on mainland Norway. However, the largest glaciers in the Kingdom of Norway are on Svalbard. The largest glacier in Europe is Austfonna on Nordaustlandet. HORDALAND Søndre Folgefonna Nordre Folgefonna Hardangerjøkulen SOGN & FJORDANE Jostedalsbreen Myklebustbreen (Snønipebreen) Harbardsbreen Spørteggbreen NORDLAND Vestre Svartisen Østre Svartisen Blåmannsisen (Ålmåjalosjieg a) Okstindbreen Sulitjelmaisen (Sállajieg a) Gihtsejieg a Frostisen (Ruostajieg a) TROMS Øksfjordjøkelen (Åovunjiehkki) FINNMARK Øksfjordjøkelen (Åovunjiehkki)