The Aura Line from Holbu to Dalen
| Distance: | Duration: | Terrain: | Level: | Type: |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 km | 4 hours | Gravel road, Path | Hard | Hikes |
The Aura Line is a spectacular rail trail which goes along steep mountainsides in Sunndal Municipality. It starts 800 metres above sea level and ends at an abandoned station, where wagons were transported up and down the mountain on a railway lift.
Aura Line. Photo: Erlend Garåsen
Read more in the book
Holbu station
The hike starts at the parking lot near Holbudammen, 800 metres above sea level. This is where Holbu station used to be until it was demolished. You can still see the remains of a railway bridge that was built in 1941 when the line was extended two kilometres southwards to Osbudammen.
Eikeli
Follow the signposted rail trail northwards until you pass the Reinvass river. The rail trail continues to the right, and after one kilometre you will see the remains of the first of four funiculars. They were all used to transport heavy goods when the power plant was being built. At Eikeli, approximately one kilometre further north, you will pass another one. Several barracks used to be here when the water tunnel was blasted between Holbu and Aura Power Plant. On the information board you can read more about the history of Eikeli.
Sandvasshaugen
You will soon pass Sandvasshaugen, and here you will find remains of railway sleepers on the ground. After you have crossed two rivers, the rail trail continues in a steep area where you will get a spectacular view over the Litldalen valley.
Topp Heis
Only the foundation remains of the station buildings at Topp Heis station. ItApos;s too steep to walk along the lift corridor down to Dalen station, so follow the short siding below the rail trail instead. It continues as a path which zigzags down the mountainside to Dalen. Be careful if it has rained inn case the mountain is slippery.
Dalen
The last hundred metres of the path goes along the Seterbekken river until you arrive Dalen. Continue on the gravel road which ends in Litldalsvegen. You may follow the railway corridor further to Linset, but this part may be difficult to traverse and requires waterproof footwear. This section starts behind the two barracks you pass just before you reach the main road.
How do I get there?
It's best to use two cars for this hike. From Sunndalsøra exit the county road (Fv. 62) towards Litldalen. After eight kilometres you will enter a toll road. Park the first car here before you pass the gate and continue up the winding road with the second one until you arrive the dam after 12 kilometres. You can park here free of charge.