The river Nidelva

The Nidelva River is the lifeline running through Trondheim. The name is old, and its meaning is not entirely certain. It may be connected to words meaning to flow or stream, or to descriptions of the river as shining or rushing. In Southern Sámi, the river is called Nïejtejohke. Nidelva is the lower part of the Nea-Nidelva watercourse. It flows from Lake Selbusjøen and continues north before meeting the Trondheim Fjord at Brattøra. Along the way, it winds through landscapes, residential areas, and finally the historic city centre. People have lived along the river since the Stone Age. Later, the river became essential for trade, crafts, transport, and the development of the city. The old wharves along the river show how important this waterway was for loading, unloading, and storing goods. Nidelva is also known as a salmon river. The lower stretch, up to Nedre Leirfoss, is accessible to salmon, and the river has been home to a large and powerful salmon stock. Today, the river is used for fishing, paddling, boating, and recreation. It is nature, city space, and historic transport all at once. And for many Norwegians, it is perhaps best known through Oskar Hoddø’s waltz: You quiet and beautiful Nidelven.