Gaustabanen is an underground train, which runs inside the mountain of Gaustatoppen. The starting point of the train is at an altitude of 1150 meters. It runs to the top station, located at 1800 meters above sea level. From the top station, you can continue to climb 30 meters up to Gaustatoppen Turisthytte which serves refreshments and overnight accommodation. If you climb up and continue along the ridge, you will finally reach 1883 m above sea level.

Gaustabanens opening hours

Gaustabanen is open both summer and winter. During opening hours, the train runs continuously with several departures per day. During the summer, the Gaustabanen departs approximately every ten minutes. There are fewer departures during winter as many visitors have skis and other equipment with them.

See opening hours here

In addition to the train, which is open to passengers, there is a 600 sqm defence facility inside Gaustatoppen. This area is left from the time when Gaustabanen served as a secret military base for NATO during the Cold War.

The idea of building an underground train to Gaustatoppen started as a civilian tourism project in the early 1950s. But when NATO got wind of the plans it became a top-secret military project. The railway was completed in 1959 and used to ship staff and supplies to the NATO radio station based on the summit. In 2010 Gaustabanen was no longer considered confidential and was opened to the public. 

Every year, Gaustabanen hosts several popular events and activities. Some are hosted together with Gaustatoppen Turisthytte, such as the popular Easter breakfast during spring. They also organize activities, such as guided tours of the old defence facility and Top Secret Dining. The latter is a dining experience that combines 3-course meals and stories from the Cold War - perfect as a corporate event or the end of a conference or kick-off.