The potholes "Helvete" (directly translated = Hell) lies in the south of the Espedalen valley – apr. 200 meters from Rv255. The tourists started to visit to this unique attraction in 1954 when it the paths was cleared and handrails where built.

The potholes where formed at the end of the last ice-age by rocks caught in water and then rotated on/in the mountain making large potholes, some over 40 meter deep and up to 20 – 30 meters wide.

The river from lake Espedalsvatnet once run out into Mjøsa, 8 km south of Lillehammer. For about 9000 years ago the river broke through a natural Kamfossen, 22 km further north and now it runs towards the river Lågen in Gudbrandsdalen.

The local name of this 100 meter deep canyon is Helvete = “Hell”. It is said that this name came because it was so difficult to pass this canyon with horse and sleigh, during the mining period in Espedalen.

The path down into the canyon starts by the parking lot. It goes through wood terrain, slowly downhill. The last part has stairs and handrails. The very last part goes down to the bottom of the canyon, handrails most of the way. From here you can walk further into the canyon where there are several potholes of different sizes.

The trip is not recommended for people with walking disability or if you have fear of heights. Walking into “Hell” is on your own responsibility.

At DALBAKKEN MOUNTAIN FARM you will be meet farm animals in their own environment. By the pond you will find ducks and geese. Other places you will find cows, horses, goats, sheep and pigs.

In HELVETE NATURE PARK you find great outdoor activities for children.
Up to date information and opening hours : www.helvete.info