[Countrywide] Summer-only mountain roads: when do they usually open/close, and what’s the best plan if a road is still closed?

I’ve aimed for Trollstigen more than once, and from what I’ve seen it usually opens late May or early June, but that’s entirely up to snow mood swings and zero respect for your itinerary. When it’s still closed or restricted, Gamle Strynefjellsvegen has saved the day for me with just as much drama and far less traffic-induced rage. Timing-wise, go late morning or early evening so you’re not racing daylight or tour buses, and always have a second route preloaded because mobile signal loves to vanish at the worst moments. Controversial opinion: if you build a whole trip around one summer-only mountain road, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment—Norway rewards flexibility, not obsession.

One summer-only road that really taught me flexibility was the drive over Sognefjellet. I aimed for it in mid-June one year and found it technically open, but with overnight closures and occasional convoy driving due to weather. It still felt worth it — massive snow walls, bright sun, and that high-alpine emptiness — but you have to watch the timing closely. I planned daylight generously and checked road status every morning, which saved a lot of stress. When it wasn’t fully cooperating, my plan B was dropping down toward Lustrafjord instead, which honestly softened the disappointment fast. If you end up down there, grab a local beer or aquavit by the water in Solvorn and wait for the light to change — it’s a great consolation prize.