Tinn showcases its mountain landscape at two different elevations: Gaustatoppen reaches 1,883 meters above sea level, and the Gaustabanen takes visitors to the summit in 15 minutes. Gvepseborg, the mountain station of the Krossobanen, is located at 886 meters and offers views of the mountain landscape around Rjukan. From Gvepseborg, a 2.8-kilometer walking trail leads to the Sun Mirror; it takes about an hour each way. This means a 15-minute train ride to the summit compares with about an hour of walking in each direction. Check the current operating information for the railways before your trip.
Trails with Different Route Profiles
Gjuvhovda is a short, family-friendly hike with views from the summit. Trail conditions can vary. Ryes vei offers a different route profile: The trail runs below the Krossobanen, is 4 kilometers long, and has 21 hairpin bends and a total elevation gain of 500 meters. These figures describe the route, but do not indicate a set time required.
Ryes vei is also an escape route used by Norwegian resistance fighters: They took the trail on the night of the attack on the Vemork heavy water plant. The route is also known as “The Retreat.” For cross-country skiing, the 29-kilometer Tinnløypa runs from Gvepseborg to Atrå. Its status and grooming vary by season.
Industrial History and Railway Towns
The Heavy Water Cellar features an interactive exhibition at the original site of the sabotage mission against heavy water production in Vemork. From the Vemork Museum parking lot, an approximately 800-meter walking trail leads to the museum; the walk takes about 20 minutes. The Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum (NIA) aims to preserve and share the local history of hydropower, industry and society.
At Mæl station and the ferry terminal, the protected cultural heritage sites form a fully preserved railway station environment. It includes distinctive buildings as well as historic freight and passenger cars. Visitor arrangements may vary; check the current conditions before planning a visit. Another railway-related attraction is the Rjukan Railway: In summer, it offers travel experiences and historical tours. Check the current operating information before planning your visit.
Museum and Seasonal Refreshments
Tinn Museum is an open-air museum with historic buildings and nature. It is open for visits at any time, free of charge; check the current visitor information before your trip. For a break at Vemork, the season for Café Vemork is important: From June 1 to November 1, it serves lunch, coffee and cakes during museum opening hours. From November 2 to May 31, the café is closed and opens only for reserved group meals. Check the dates if you are planning your visit around them.
Bus Connections and Experiences on the Water
Bus services run from Rjukan to several villages; during the peak season, there is also a connection between Rjukan and Gausta. The free Fjellbussen runs from Rjukan to Gausta and continues to the Gaustabanen and Stavsro. In 2026, it operates from June 26 to October 11, with additional departures during the peak season. As routes and seasonal schedules may change, check the times for your travel day.
Water-based activities are also available locally: At Sandviken Camping in Tinn Austbygd, you can rent canoes and kayaks, use a swimming beach that is also open to non-residents, and visit a café. If you are planning any of these activities, check availability in advance.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Tinn, Rjukan, Austbygdi, Miland, Hovin I Telemark, Siljan, Fyresdal, Bamble.
Go to the overview of the wider region: Telemark.
