[Countrywide] River gorges & canyons: which viewpoints + short trails give the best “dramatic drop” experience?

[EIA_Ask_NO]

Let’s gather real recommendations for river gorges/canyons that are dramatic but still accessible—viewpoints, short trails, and easy stops on a road trip.

If you recommend a place, please include:

• How long the walk is from parking (0–30 minutes, 30–60 minutes, etc.)
• Safety reality: railings, slippery rocks, exposed edges
• Whether it’s enjoyable in rain (some gorges look even better with higher water)
• Best time to visit for fewer crowds

Which gorge/canyon impressed you most—and what’s the one safety tip visitors should know?

 

[ViolettaPetrovna]

Vøringsfossen actually wins twice here, because the Måbødalen canyon viewpoints give you that stomach-drop feeling with almost no walking, thanks to the newer platforms and railings that don’t require mountaineering skills. Sautso Canyon up north is jaw-dropping if you catch it in decent weather, but it’s less “pull over and peek” and more “commit to a short walk and watch your footing,” especially after rain. From what I’ve seen, gorges are best right after heavy rain when the water goes feral, but that’s also when paths get slick and people forget gravity exists. Any other canyon viewpoints where you get max drama with minimal cardio that I should add to my list?

 

[Alex Turner]

One gorge that really delivers drama without demanding much effort is Vøringsfossen via the Fossli side viewpoints. From parking, it’s honestly 5–10 minutes on well-built paths, with railings where it counts. You’re looking straight down into the canyon, and the scale hits immediately. I’ve seen it in light rain and actually preferred it — more water, more noise, more atmosphere. Just watch for slick stone near the edges and don’t wander off marked paths, because the drop is very real. Crowds peak midday in summer, so early or late is calmer. Safety tip: wind can be stronger than expected near the falls. Did you consider approaching it from the Hardangervidda side instead of looping back the same way?