Norway's Pilgrim Paths: Viking Roots to Modern Adventure EP 496

Today on Episode 496 I'm talking with Mattias Jansson from the National Pilgrim Center in Trondheim, Norway. I recently had the opportunity to hike the Pilgrim Path along Olav's Way, and if you get the chance, do it. Not only is the walk beautiful, but the history is quite interesting as well.

Not only is the walk beautiful, but the history is quite interesting as well.

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What Happened

I’ve done my fair share of hiking. From the John Muir Trail to the PCT, I thought I had a pretty solid handle on what makes an adventure worthwhile. But then I found myself in Norway, walking the Pilgrim Path to Nidaros Cathedral, and something shifted.

It wasn’t just the landscapes—though, let me tell you, those were next level. One day, we were trekking through misty mountains. The next, we were passing through sleepy villages, exchanging nods with locals who’ve seen hikers like us for centuries.

And then there was that one wild day—the rain poured, the wind howled, and instead of hurrying through it, we stopped to make coffee by a quiet pond. No rush, no race, just being in the moment. That’s when it hit me: This wasn’t just a hike. It was something deeper. Something that had been calling to people for over a thousand years.

It made me wonder: Why do we chase adventure? What are we really searching for?

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Principle

Here’s the truth: Many people think adventure is about ticking off trails, collecting miles, or conquering nature. But the best adventures? They change you.

A pilgrimage isn’t just about getting from point A to B. It’s about stripping away the layers of everyday life—the distractions, the to-do lists, the noise—until all that’s left is you, the trail, and whatever you’re meant to discover along the way.

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Transition

Many people don’t realize it, but they’re searching for more than just adventure. They’re searching for meaning. And yet, so many never find it—not because they’re not looking, but because they don’t know where to look.

And …

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That’s Why…

That’s why, in this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, we sat down with Mattias Jansson, a modern-day guide of these ancient trails. We talk about the Viking roots of the Pilgrim Path, the deep connection between adventure and self-discovery, and why people from all over the world are drawn to this experience today.

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Call to Action

If you’