Choosing between Trysil vs Hemsedal is the ultimate Norwegian dilemma for 2026. One is a masterclass in resort organisation and family flow, while the other offers the most dramatic alpine terrain and legendary après-ski in Scandinavia. After sending our team to both peaks this season to capture exclusive POV footage, we’ve broken down the stats and logistics to help you decide.
| Feature | Trysil (2026) | Hemsedal (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Families & Mixed-Ability Groups | Expert Skiers & Après Fans |
| Vertical Drop | 685m | 810m (2657 ft) |
| Lift Pass (Adult Day) | Approx. €63 / £53 | Approx. €65 / £55 |
| Lifts / Trails | 31 Lifts / 69 Trails | 21 Lifts / 53 Trails |
| Vibe | Extremely Organised & Cozy | High-Energy & Alpine |
Trysil vs Hemsedal: 2026 POV Run Guide
Before you book, see the terrain for yourself. Our 2026 POV footage highlights the difference in trail width and steepness between these two Norwegian giants.
Watch the full 4K POV library at everysnowday.com/resort/trysil
Trysil vs Hemsedal: Which is better for beginners?
When comparing Trysil vs Hemsedal for beginners, Trysil is arguably the gold standard for families in Northern Europe. Our team found that the resort’s layout—designed around a central mountain—allows beginners to start at the Turistsenteret and progress naturally. The Høyfjellssenteret side is a high-altitude plateau, meaning even first-timers get to experience that “top of the world” feeling without fear.
Hemsedal, while excellent, feels more compact at the base. It offers a unique 6km green run from the highest point (Totten) to the valley, which is a rare treat for beginners. However, the overall “big mountain” atmosphere can feel slightly more intimidating for the very young or very nervous.
Insider Tip: In Trysil, if the main Fjellekspressen (Lift T1) has a queue, head over to the Skihytta side early. Our team found that Piste 12 often remains untouched for the first hour of the day.
🚠 2026 Insider Update: The New Trysilgondolen
“I recently rode the new gondola—it completely changes the flow of the mountain, especially for families at the Turistsenter.”
- ⚡ High Capacity: Moves 3,000 people per hour in 10-person cabins, effectively killing the old T-bar queues.
- 📍 Key Route: Connects the Eventyr area directly to Hesten (T10), making mid-mountain access effortless.
- ❄️ Weather Proof: Provides a shielded, warm ride to the top on those notoriously windy Norwegian days.
Expert Terrain & Off-Piste Comparison
If you want “steeps,” you go to Hemsedal. Known as the Scandinavian Alps, it offers a verticality that Trysil can’t quite match. The terrain around the Tinden and Roni peaks provides genuine black-diamond challenges and accessible off-piste that holds snow exceptionally well due to the inland, high-altitude location.
Trysil’s challenge lies in Høgegga. This area is dedicated to steep, perfectly groomed black runs (Piste 75 is a local legend). It’s a carver’s paradise, but for raw, rugged terrain, Hemsedal takes the crown.
Resort Statistics (Data via Every Snow Day)
To ensure accuracy for your 2026 planning, we have used the official technical data for both resorts:
Trysil Stats
- Lifts: 31 (including high-speed chairlifts and the new 2026 gondola upgrades).
- Trails: 69 (spread across 4 linked areas).
- Mountain Areas: Turistsenter, Høyfjellssenter, Høgegga, and Skihytta.
- Expert Guide: Full Trysil Stats & Footage
Hemsedal Stats
- Lifts: 21
- Trails: 53
- Vertical: 2657 ft
- Skiable Terrain: 45 km
- Expert Guide: Full Hemsedal Stats & Footage
Travel Logistics: How to Get There
Both resorts are primarily accessed via Oslo Airport (OSL). If you are staying in the city first, check our guide on how to get to Oslo ski resorts before heading to the mountains.
Getting to Trysil
The Trysilekspressen (NW160) bus is the primary lifeline. It departs directly from OSL and takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. If you are flying into the smaller Scandinavian Mountains Airport (SCR), the transfer is a mere 40 minutes.
View the full Trysil Travel Guide & Ticket Prices →
Getting to Hemsedal
Hemsedal is a slightly longer journey, typically taking 3 to 3.5 hours from Oslo. You can take the Hemsedal Ekspressen (NW161) bus or the train to Gol followed by a 30-minute shuttle.
View the full Hemsedal Travel Guide & Ticket Prices →
Insider Tip: For Hemsedal, avoid the Sunday afternoon “Oslo exodus.” The road back to the city can become heavily congested as locals return from their weekend cabins.
The Verdict: Trysil vs Hemsedal?
Deciding on Trysil vs Hemsedal comes down to your group’s priority. Choose Trysil if: You are travelling with children, enjoy wide-open carving, and want the convenience of a modern resort where everything “just works.”
Choose Hemsedal if: You want a big-mountain feel, superior off-piste opportunities, and the best après-ski (Stavkroa) in the north.
🏔️ Mastered Norway? Level Up to the Three Valleys
If you love the family-friendly atmosphere of Trysil, your next logical step is Les Menuires, France. It offers the same friendly vibe but sits in the heart of the world’s largest ski area (600km of runs).
To keep our mountain guides free for everyone, we partner with some of the transport providers mentioned above. If you book through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.