As you climb the steep slopes from Grimås and into the birch forest, you quickly realize that the hike to Grimaren is not a Sunday trip for decoration. There's something rough and honest about this climb, which requires both breath and stamina from the first meter. But this is also what makes Grimaren one of the finest peaks in Seljord - it doesn't make much of an impression from a distance, but lives up to expectations when you first make your way up.

Grimaren sits like a sentinel on the very west of the Lifjell plateau, towering 1169 meters above sea level. From the summit, you can see straight into the heart of West Telemark. Skorvetoppen stands proudly in the southwest, Mælefjell towers in the north, and further out the mountain ranges lie layer upon layer like deep breaths in the landscape. Up here, in the meeting of steep paths and expansive views, you'll understand why people return to this peak - again and again.

The path up starts at a small parking lot by the gate at Grimås. There used to be skiing activities here, and the remains of an old slalom slope lie like a silent witness to another time. Today, nature has reclaimed much of the hill, but the line is clear enough - it goes upwards. The birch forest is dense for the first few meters, but after a while the landscape opens up. Small rocky outcrops and heather-covered hills take over, and the wind meets you with a taste of high mountains.

After about an hour and a half's walk - maybe two, if you take your time - you'll reach the cairn at the top. Here you'll find a mailbox with a hiking book, and not infrequently a thermos or two from other hikers who have taken a well-earned break. There is something still about this summit, as if he knows he doesn't need to shout to be noticed. He just stands there, confident and wide, and shows you a landscape you won't soon forget.

For those who have more time, the ridge continues to beckon towards Røysdalsnuten. Many people take the hike as a round trip - up Grimaren, over the hill and back down another path. But Grimaren doesn't need to be combined to be worth it. It stands well on its own. A steep, short and intensive hike - but with a view and an experience that will make your day.

There are mountains that require long days and careful planning. The Grimaren only requires determination, good shoes and a desire to meet nature on its own terms. And what you get in return is more than vertical meters and views - it's the quiet satisfaction of being in a place that speaks to both your body and your senses. A place you take home with you.


Grimaren - steep, short and with a wide view of the mountains
Grimaren (1169 m) is one of the most easily accessible heights on Lifjell, and a popular hike for both locals and visitors. The hike is short, but steep, and offers great views and a sense of the mountains - perfect for those who want a quick but breezy mountain experience.

Hiking route:

The hike starts from the parking lot at Grimås, up in Grunningsdalen (note that there is a toll road at the bottom of the valley). The trail goes from the parking lot straight up the hillside - well marked and easy to follow. You'll pass rocks and boulders, but it's not technically demanding.

After about 1 km up the slope, you'll come to the place where the old slalom slope used to be - now an open section with a steep gradient and good views. At the top of the hill there is a signpost junction:
- Turn left towards Grimaren.
- Straight ahead the path continues towards Tjorbuvatna, Bø and Hollane.

The trail to Grimaren continues up over the hill, before you reach the top - where you'll find a great DNT mailbox for those who collect peaks. The view from here stretches over Skorvefjella, Mælefjell, and further east towards mountains in Hjartdal and Tuddal.

Note that you don't have a good view down towards the center of Seljord, as the mountain faces more to the east and north.

Further hikes:

Many people use Grimaren as a starting point for longer hikes into Lifjell, for example towards Røysdalsnuten, Tjorbuvatna, or further south towards Geitekyrkja and Venelinuten. It's easy to combine with an overnight trip or day trip in the high mountain terrain.

Facts about the trip:

- Length: Approx. 3-4 km round trip
- Ascent: Approx. 350 vertical meters
- Level: Medium - short, but steep
- Surface: Clear path, rocky outcrops and heather moorland.

Hiking tips:

- Bring something to write with and put a deposit in the DNT box office.
- A good hike for an afternoon or as the start of a longer round trip
- Good shoes and windproof clothing are recommended - the summit is open and can be exposed to the weather
- Grimaren is suitable both for training trips and for families with children who want to climb a "proper" mountain peak