Best Sunrise Photo Spots on New Bergen Trails at Fløyen

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The new gravel paths are wide and provide a very stable surface for carrying heavy camera tripods. You can find several stone benches that act as perfect resting spots while you wait for light. These areas are positioned to give you an unobstructed view of the harbor and the Vågen bay. The sun rises behind the mountain, creating a beautiful glow over the colorful houses below.

Photographers should aim to reach the upper viewing terrace at least thirty minutes before the official sunrise time. This allows you to capture the blue hour colors that reflect off the North Sea horizon. The contrast between the orange sky and the blue water creates a very striking visual composition. Many locals use these trails for morning runs, but the photography spots remain quite quiet.

Expect to spend about forty minutes walking from the city center to reach the main photography plateau. The trail is well-lit at the bottom but becomes darker as you gain more elevation quickly. Bringing a small headlamp will help you navigate the forested sections safely without tripping on roots. These improvements ensure that your early morning adventure is both safe and very productive.

Capturing the Dawn from New Ulriken Rest Areas

Mount Ulriken is the highest peak in Bergen and offers a truly panoramic view of the region. The city has recently installed new rest areas on the Ulriken hiking trail for all visitors. These wooden platforms are excellent for setting up professional camera gear on uneven mountain terrain. You will find these spots located at various intervals along the popular Sherpa stairs.

The view from the top of Ulriken looks directly toward the eastern mountain ranges and the fjords. This orientation is perfect for capturing the sun as it breaks over the distant snowy peaks. In 2026, the trails are wider to allow for better flow during the busy summer months. However, the early morning remains the best time to find a private spot for photos.

The light at this altitude is often much clearer than what you find down in the valley. You might even see a layer of morning mist sitting over the city streets far below. This weather phenomenon adds a sense of mystery and depth to your landscape photography shots. Be sure to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast scale of the landscape.

Hiking Ulriken requires more physical effort than Fløyen because the incline is much steeper for most people. The stone steps are sturdy but can be slippery if there was morning dew or light rain. Plan for a hike of about sixty to ninety minutes depending on your current fitness level. The reward is a 360-degree view that few other places in Norway can match.

Safety and Navigation for Early Morning Hiking

Navigating mountain trails in the dark requires you to pay close attention to your immediate surroundings. You should look for new safety signs on Bergen mountain trails to stay on the correct path. These signs feature reflective paint that shines brightly when hit by your flashlight or your headlamp. They provide clear directions to the nearest viewpoints and emergency exit routes if needed.

The weather in Bergen can change very rapidly even during the calmest summer mornings in 2026. You must wear layers of moisture-wicking clothing to stay warm while you are standing still. A windproof jacket is essential because the mountain tops are often much breezier than the city center. Check the local forecast to ensure that low clouds will not block your sunrise views.

It is always a good idea to tell someone your planned route before you head out alone. While the trails are safe, the terrain can be rugged and requires your full concentration at times. Stick to the marked paths to protect the fragile alpine vegetation that grows along the trail edges. Respecting the environment ensures these beautiful spots remain open for future generations of mountain photographers.

Carry extra batteries for your camera because the cold mountain air can drain them very quickly. You should also bring a warm drink in a thermos to stay comfortable during the wait. The best photos often happen just after the sun has cleared the horizon and hits the city. Patience is the most important tool in your photography kit when shooting in the mountains.

How to Access the Best Sunrise Spots Efficiently

Knowing how to access new hiking trails in Bergen will save you a lot of time. Most of the primary trailheads are located within walking distance of the main historic city center. If you stay in a central hotel, you can reach the Fløyen path in ten minutes. This convenience makes it easy to roll out of bed and start your morning hike.

For those heading to Mount Ulriken, the local public transport system is a very reliable option. The Skyss buses run early schedules that can get you to the base of the mountain. Check the current timetable the night before to ensure you do not miss the first morning bus. The bus ride from the city center to the Ulriken cable car station takes fifteen minutes.

The Ulriken cable car usually starts operating later in the morning, so hiking is your only sunrise option. This means you must be prepared for a physical workout before you can take your first photo. The path is clearly marked from the bus stop all the way to the mountain summit. Follow the signs for 'Oppstemten' to find the famous stone stairs that lead to the top.

Parking near the trailheads can be difficult and expensive during the peak tourist season in 2026. It is much better to use public transport or simply walk if your accommodation is nearby. This allows you to focus on the scenery rather than worrying about finding a parking space. Early morning Bergen is quiet, making the walk to the trail a peaceful experience.