Sydveggen

This is the descent route for any technical climb that summits Vågakallen (e.g. Nordryggen or Storpillaren), but also one of the most scenic (though challenging) hikes in all of Lofoten.

It is an excellent outing for any non-climbing day but, just as any other route on Vågakallen, it should only be attempted when the weather is good, as routefinding can be difficult and it is quite exposed in places (e.g. crossing the "Hustaket"). You'll find a good amount of great scrambling on this one.

Although this route reaches the summit of Vågakallen, it does not start on the side of Kalle but instead from the South, in Djupfjord.

Follow the same approach as for the Bare blåbær area but instead of turning left past the moraine continue Southeast, heading uphill towards the notch in between Kvanndalstinden (to the right) and the summit behind Pillaren (Point 713) (to the left).

At the notch, drop down the hill trending left and start hiking up a steep open gully that leads to Vågakallen's West ridge (this area can have a big patch of snow in the early season so navigate it carefully). Once at the ridge is where the actual scrambling begins.

Turn right at the ridge, carefully following the sometimes hidden trail while you scramble your way up and right around the big rocky summit of Vågakallen. Halfway up this section, you'll find the infamous "Hustaket", which can be crossed either by scrambling to the top of the ridge and tiptoeing it carefully, or stepping down a little and walking the scary looking slab. Some people might want to use a rope for this section.

Continue scrambling up while connecting ledges until you pop out at the summit. Eat a sandwich and enjoy the amazing views. To descend, simply do the route in reverse.

Park as for Djupfjord and start walking from there. Follow the description above.

Depending on your comfort level, a short rope and a few pieces of gear could bring peace of mind on the scrambling sections. Also microspikes if going early in the season and there’s still some snow around.