Norway National Parks: Best Parks, Trails & Travel Tips

Norway boasts nearly 50 national parks, protecting diverse ecosystems from Arctic tundra to glacial valleys. These protected areas showcase the country’s rugged beauty, offering hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers unparalleled experiences. This guide highlights standout parks, their unique attractions, and practical advice for exploration.

Why Visit Norway’s National Parks?

National parks in Norway cover vast terrains, preserving everything from ancient forests to Europe’s highest peaks. They provide habitats for reindeer, musk oxen, and eagles while offering activities like glacier trekking, skiing, and fishing. With strict conservation rules, visitors enjoy pristine environments year-round.

• Diverse landscapes: Fjords, plateaus, and mountains in one country.
• Wildlife viewing: Spot reindeer herds and Arctic foxes.
• Adventure options: Hiking, skiing, and boating tailored to all levels.

Hardangervidda: The Vast Highland Plateau

Spanning 3,422 square kilometers, Hardangervidda stands as Norway’s largest national park on the mainland. Located in south-central Norway, it features endless plateaus, deep valleys, and shimmering lakes in shades of blue. This highland plateau attracts Europe’s biggest wild reindeer population, exceeding 7,000 individuals, alongside elk, Arctic foxes, and musk oxen.

Visitors can hike extensive trails, fish in crystal-clear waters, or cycle through wildflower meadows in summer. Winter brings cross-country skiing across snow-blanketed expanses. Access points include Eidfjord and Haukeliseter, with cabins available for overnight stays.

Jotunheimen: Scandinavia’s Roof

In central southern Norway, Jotunheimen covers 1,151 square kilometers of dramatic alpine scenery. Home to Galdhøpiggen at 2,469 meters and Glittertind at 2,465 meters, Norway’s two highest peaks dominate the skyline. Glaciers, turquoise lakes, and thundering waterfalls create a breathtaking backdrop for adventurers.

Popular trails lead to summits and along the glacier arms. Families enjoy easier walks around Gjende Lake, while experts tackle multi-day treks. The park is reachable by a 3-4 hour drive from Oslo, making it ideal for weekend escapes.

• Peak bagging on Galdhøpiggen.
• Glacier hikes with guided tours.
• Lake kayaking in summer.

Jostedalsbreen: Glacier Wonderland

Encompassing Norway’s largest icecap, Jostedalsbreen National Park spans glaciers, valleys, and fjords. Phenomenal blue ice tongues descend from high mountains, feeding rivers and lakes. This 1,310-square-kilometer area offers glacier hiking, ice climbing, and summer skiing opportunities.

Key spots include Nigardsbreen glacier for accessible walks and Bødalsbreen for rugged hikes. Briksdalsbreen provides a scenic 1-hour trail to the ice edge. Boat tours on nearby fjords enhance the experience.

Folgefonna: Fjordside Glaciers

Along the Hardanger Fjord’s southern shore, Folgefonna National Park features the third-largest icecap in Norway. Lofty peaks, wild valleys, jade lakes, and flower-strewn pastures surround glacier tongues. Summer skiing and glacier hiking draw thrill-seekers to this compact yet spectacular park.

Langfoss Waterfall, one of the world’s tallest, cascades nearby. Cable cars at Folgefonni provide panoramic views and ski access even in July.

Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella: Musk Ox Territory

This 1,830-square-kilometer park in central Norway hosts the kingdom’s iconic musk ox herd. Stark mountains, snowfields, and alpine meadows shelter wolverines, Arctic foxes, wild reindeer, and golden eagles. Snøhetta viewpoint offers prime wildlife spotting.

Hiking trails range from day trips to the multi-day Pilgrim’s Path. Train access via Dovrebanen railway simplifies visits.

Rondane: Rugged Mountain Escape

Rondane National Park features barren peaks, deep ravines, and plateaus ideal for remote hiking. Established in 1962 as Norway’s first national park, it protects unique high-mountain ecosystems with reindeer and rare plants.

• Rondvasshøgde summit views.
• Cross-country skiing in winter.
• Cabin networks for backpackers.

Stabbursdalen: Northernmost Forest

In Finnmark, Stabbursdalen harbors the world’s northernmost pine forest amid tundra, ravines, and salmon rivers. This lesser-visited gem offers solitude, with glassy rapids and bubbling waterfalls along Stabburselva.

Other Must-See Parks

Beyond the highlights, explore these diverse areas:

• Øvre Dividal: Arctic landscapes with Sami culture.
• Reisa: Canyons and waterfalls in the north.
• Færder: Coastal islands near Oslofjord.
• Jomfruland: Bird-rich wetlands in the south.

Norway’s parks on Svalbard add polar extremes, with seven protected zones for Arctic foxes and walruses.

Planning Your National Park Adventure

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June-August) suits hiking and boating, with midnight sun in the north. Winter (December-March) excels for skiing and northern lights. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds.

Getting There and Around

Flights to Oslo, Bergen, or Tromsø connect to parks via buses, trains, or rental cars. Ferries serve fjord areas. The Norway in a Nutshell route links popular sites.

Essential Gear and Tips

• Waterproof clothing and sturdy boots.
• Map apps like UT.no for trails.
• Follow allemannsretten: Leave no trace.
• Book huts via DNT in advance.

Conservation and Responsible Travel

National parks enforce strict rules to protect fragile ecosystems. Stick to paths, camp designated sites, and report wildlife sightings to rangers. Support local economies by choosing sustainable operators.

FAQs

How many national parks are in Norway?

Norway has 48 national parks, 41 on the mainland and 7 on Svalbard. The newest, Østmarka, was established in 2023.

What’s the largest national park in Norway?

Hardangervidda is the largest mainland park at 3,422 km².

Are there guided tours in the parks?

Yes, glacier hikes in Jostedalsbreen and wildlife tours in Dovrefjell are popular guided options.

Can I camp anywhere?

Allemannsretten allows wild camping, but stay 150m from buildings and respect nature.

Is public transport available?

Trains and buses reach many parks; check Visit Norway for schedules.