Norway: Peaks and Valleys

Trip Name
Norway: Peaks and Valleys

Who It's For
High school students (grades 9–12)

2026 Sessions
Session 1: July 5 – July 25, 2026
Note: These dates reflect your teen’s departure and return.
Exact flight times and meeting details will be shared after enrollment.

Location
Oslo, Jotunheimen, Voss, Bergen

Trip Length
21 Days

Service Hours
N/A

Tuition
$7,495

This is the plan—but plans can shift. Weather, group energy, and new opportunities sometimes lead us to make changes. No two trips are exactly the same, and that’s part of what makes the experience so memorable.

Days 1–2: Arrival in Oslo
For those flying with an RLT leader, we depart the U.S. on an overnight flight. After the full group has arrived at Oslo Airport, we head into the city, check into our hostel, and spend time settling in, playing games, and getting to know each other.

Day 3: Train to Otta
We ride one of Norway’s most scenic trains through the mountains to Otta Station. After arriving, we head to our campsite and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 4: Expedition Prep
We spend the day packing gear, planning routes, and preparing for our multi-day hike through Jotunheimen National Park.

Days 5–10: Backpacking in Jotunheimen National Park
Over six days, we hike 40 miles through Norway’s most dramatic landscapes—glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering peaks. These ancient trails have been used for generations. The hiking is tough, but the views are unforgettable. We camp in tents at rustic sites with basic or backcountry-style bathrooms.

Day 11: Rest Day in Voss
After our expedition, we reset with showers, laundry, and a relaxing day in Voss, a mountain town known for outdoor adventure.

Days 12–14: Bike the Rallarvegen Trail
We bike 50 miles along the historic Rallarvegen route, built to support railway construction. The trail begins in the high country and descends into the fjordlands, offering incredible scenery the whole way. We camp each night in tents with rustic or backcountry-style bathrooms.

Day 15: Downtime in Voss
We rest our legs and enjoy a slower-paced day, exploring town and preparing for the next leg of the journey.

Days 16–19: Sea Kayaking the Fjords
We head to the water and kayak along Norway’s stunning coastline. As we paddle between fjords and islands, we take in the peaceful surroundings and look for wildlife. This portion is fully self-supported and includes camping in remote locations.

Day 20: Explore Bergen & Final Banquet
We close out the trip in Bergen, a charming city surrounded by fjords and mountains. We celebrate with our final night banquet—reflecting on three weeks of challenge, growth, and connection.

Day 21: Fly Home
Depart from Bergen and return home.

This trip includes a mix of tent camping and hostel stays.

Camping
Teens sleep in shared tents (2–3 per tent), organized by gender identity. Campsites range from frontcountry campgrounds to remote backcountry sites.

Rustic Facilities
Most campsites have basic bathroom access. In the backcountry, we use portable or natural setups. Showers are available every 3–5 days.

Setup & Breakdown
The group works together to pitch tents, prep meals, and maintain a clean camp—part of what makes the trip work.

What to Expect
Sleeping in tents, long daylight hours, mountain air, and waking up to glacier views or fjord-side sunrises.

Meals are simple, fresh, and planned by the group with guidance from leaders.

Cook Crew
Teens rotate through small teams to plan, prep, cook, and clean each day.

Backcountry Style
Meals are designed for outdoor travel—think pasta, wraps, oatmeal, couscous, and hearty snacks.

All Diets Welcome
We accommodate all allergies and dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, etc.).

Snacks + Water
Hydration and snacks are built into the routine—especially important on hiking and biking days.

Flights
Families book flights to Oslo (OSL) and from Bergen (BGO).
Don’t book until you receive the required travel windows from our team.

Escorted Flight Option
An optional group flight with an RLT leader is available from the New York area.

Unaccompanied Minor Info
If flying solo, we provide everything you need for check-in and pickup.

Packing
We send a detailed packing list well in advance—everything fits in a backpack or duffel.

Key Items Include
Sleeping bag + pad
Rain jacket
Warm layers
Hiking boots
Swimsuit
No special gear needed—just basics that hold up outside.

Forms & Waivers
You’ll get access to your RLT portal after enrolling. Forms include:
– Health info
– Waiver
– Emergency contact details

Medical Clearance
No doctor’s appointment is needed unless a new or serious condition has developed.

Medications
All medications (prescription and OTC) must be listed on the form. Leaders manage meds as needed.

Behavioral Expectations
We send a Code of Conduct to review with your teen. Everyone should feel safe, respected, and supported.

Trip Insurance
Required for international trips. You can use any third-party provider. Info is on our FAQ page or available from our team.

Passport & Visa
U.S. citizens don’t need a visa for Norway if staying under 90 days.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date.

Device-Free Philosophy
Phones are collected on Day 1 and returned at the end. Being off-grid helps teens stay present and build real connections.

Why It Works
No texts, no scrolling—just face-to-face connection, confidence, and being fully there.

Cameras Welcome
Digital cameras and GoPros are fine. Trip leaders also share an online gallery after the program.

Family Communication
Our team sends regular trip updates. In case of emergency, we’re always reachable through our on-call line.