The route in brief
Start: By Lake Heddersvatn at Stavsro
Length: 7,2 km return
Time: 2-3 tim return
Vertical rise: 248 m (approx. 1,139-1,345 metres above sea level)
Difficulty: Medium
Child-friendly: For children used to hiking
MAP
About Toreskyrkja
From the top at 1371 metres above sea level you will get a wonderful view towards Gaustatoppen, Tuddal and the mountains in south Telemark. Here you will also come across the more challenging red path from Lake Kvitåvatn.
Getting there
Park the car on the road next to Stavsro at the northern end of Lake Heddersvatn. From here, follow the small path eastwards on the north side of the lake. When you reach the valley and the first small lake, cross the small stream and turn right. The path from here up to Toreskyrkja can be quite rocky, so watch your steps and keep an eye open for the small cairns – they are there to lead you to the top!
Useful information
The hike from Lake Heddersvatn to Toreskyrkja is best in the summer and early autumn, from the beginning of June to mid-October.
As the hike includes a climb of a couple of hundred metres and rocky sections, it’s described as ‘medium hard’ – but it’s quite a simple hike for anyone used to hiking in the mountains.
Hikes on Gausta
Skipsfjell is the name of the mountain located in the middle of Gausta. It has one of the best viewpoints in the area. From the top at 1088 metres above sea level, you can enjoy magnificent views of the entire Gausta area, including Gaustatoppen, Kvitåvatn and Rjukan. Hiking up here (or around the whole mountain) is suitable for all ages and takes a few hours.
Ørnenipa is a popular mountain in Vatnedalen, located in the northeastern part of Gausta. The peak is located at 1315 metres above sea level and offers good hiking and beautiful views of Gaustatoppen the Gausta area. The popular trail from Vatnedalen takes about 4 hours (round trip).
This moderate hike to Toreskyrkja starts at Lake Heddersvatn next to Stavsro. The hike is 3,6 km and approximately 1–1,5 hours long (one way).
This challenging hike takes you from Vatnedalen to Toreskyrkja at 1,371 metres above sea level. At the summit you can enjoy spectacular views of Gaustatoppen, Tuddal, and the mountains in Telemark.
Download the Gausta app
Would you like to download the map to your phone? Download the Gausta app from App Store or Google Play! The app also has plenty of other useful information for your visit to Gausta.
Remember
Dress appropriately and follow the Norwegian mountain safety code, which is a set of rules and advice that you should always have with you when you go out in the mountains. For example, make sure that you always plan your hike carefully and be prepared for bad weather and the cold, even on short hikes.