Upper Valldola - a classic drop and pool

Norway, More og Romsdal, Upper Valldola

Overview of the valley. Photo by Adrian Tregoning.

What's it like

A low volume creek with Class IV and V on a drop and pool river situated in between steep mountains. All rapids are easy to scout and/or portage. The road is nearby. Slides and waterfalls are found here. The water is crystal clear and cold. Between all rapids you will find big pools to collect gear and swimmers.

Every rapid has been run, but scouting is needed.

A natural river where the water is meltwater. So wear a dry cag! Water is clean and good to drink.

The distance of the run is about 3 km and the gradient is 41 m/km (4,1%).

There are 2 take-outs. The first one is just after a small iron and concrete bridge. The second one is when you get a tributary in from river left (Scout and maybe mark this take-out). From the second take-out, the following canyon has only been run at extremly low levels. And the big monster-slide you will se further down is for viewing purposes only. There is no eddies before an unrunnable waterfall.

The rapids between the two take-outs is not for everyone and are solid grade V+.

A sweet boof on the Upper Valldola. This drop is shallow on river left, and has broken ankles before. Watch your line.... Paddler: Colin Furmston. Photo by Adrian Tregoning.

One of the easier rapids on the river. Paddler: Colin Furmston. Photo by Adrian Tregoning.

How to get there

From Åndalsnes, take the Rv 63 over Trollstigen. When you start going down the valley towards Valldal again, stop at the second brigde. Park here, and hike up three rapids to come to the put-in.

The parking lot for the take-out is situated just after the next bridge. If you want to stop at the first take-out; turn around drive overthe bridge again and continue around the first right hand bend. There is a gravel parking-lot on your right.

Just another day in Norway. Paddler: Leon Bedford. Photo By Adrian Tregoning.