håndryggen

Håndryggen is a mountain range located in the southern part of Norway, in the counties of Vesterålen and Lofoten. It is part of the Lofoten Mountains, a sub-range of the Scandinavian Mountains. The name "Håndryggen" is derived from the Norwegian words "hånd", meaning hand, and "ryggen", meaning back, referring to the range's unique profile resembling a hand.

Geologically, Håndryggen is a mountain range primarily composed of gneiss and schist, which were formed during the Proterozoic era, around 1.8 billion years ago. The range is characterized by a vast array of glacial features, including cirques, hanging valleys, and U-shaped valleys. Håndryggen's highest peak, EggensANGER, reaches an elevation of 911 meters.

The mountain range is generally known for its rugged terrain, featuring cliffs, ridges, and steep rock faces. However, this also creates an abundance of unique biotopes, supporting an array of plant and animal species that are found nowhere else in the region. Several glaciers can be found on Håndryggen, including Lofotraskarsblinknora Glacier, which is approximately five kilometers in length.

Håndryggen is particularly known for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding. Several mountain terrain parks and ski resorts, such as Henningsvaer, are built on and around the range, offering both challenging and beginner-friendly slopes. Throughout the summer months, hiking and climbing opportunities are also available for adventure seekers.