Did you know Norway has 47 national parks? That’s right—47! Norway national parks are amazing places. You can find everything from rugged mountains and icy glaciers to peaceful forests and Arctic coastlines. You can have the perfect holiday if you love hiking, wildlife spotting, or just soaking in epic views of Norway’s top national parks. I once hiked in Jotunheimen National Park—the “Home of the Giants” (you can find it in more detail in my Best Hiking in Norway guide here) One moment, I was fighting with myself up a steep trail; the next, I was staring at a herd of reindeer casually crossing my path. If glaciers are your thing, Jostedalsbreen National Park has Nigardsbreen, a massive blue-ice wonder that looks like it belongs on another planet.
Check out this article, too: Whale Watching Norway – Winter Safari
Not a hardcore hiker? No worries. Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella is perfect for spotting musk oxen—prehistoric-looking, shaggy beasts that roam the tundra like they own the place. Or check out Rondane National Park, where gentle trails lead to sweeping views that’ll make you forget your tired legs. Bonus tip: visit in autumn when the colors explode in fiery reds and oranges. Whether you’re planning a quick nature escape or a week of adventure somewhere in a national park, Norway national parks are your best bet. This Norway National Park guide will walk you through Norway’s top national parks.
Introduction: Discovering Norway National Parks
As I mentioned above, Norway national parks are out of this world. They are a haven for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. These parks are a great place to see the country’s diverse geography—from snow-capped mountains and deep fjords to coastal islands and Arctic tundra. Each park has something unique. They also have something called “right to roam” (I’ll go deep dive on this later in the article), you can camp wherever you want by following some easy rules (see: Camping in Norway). You can also see majestic animals like reindeer and musk oxen.
Almost all have endless outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to access—many parks are just a short drive from major cities like Oslo, Bergen, or Tromsø. And let’s be honest, where else can you hike beside glaciers, see reindeer in the wild, and maybe even spot the Northern Lights all in one trip? It’s nature at its finest, with zero filter. They also make great Instagram posts!
What to Expect: Dramatic Landscapes and Unique Ecosystems
You can expect all the world at all of Norway national parks, but you can’t see them all. In an ideal world, if you were to visit them all, you’d see towering mountains, vast ice fields, and rocky coastlines. Each park has its own special ecosystems and wildlife. From Jotunheimen’s highest peak to Raet’s marine life, there is something for any kind of person. They rival other European nature sites like Iceland’s Vatnajokull and Spain’s Sierra Nevada. Keep in mind, when visiting Norway national parks, following the conservation rules designed to protect these natural treasures is essential. Stick to marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and remember to leave no trace behind. Nature here is pristine, and the goal is to keep it that way for generations to come.
The Right to Roam
Norway national parks offer a unique experience thanks to “Allemannsrett,” or the right to roam. This lets you hike, camp, and enjoy the outdoors anywhere responsibly – as long as you stay at least 150 meters away from a habituated place (like houses, farms, farmhouses, or anything in between). Allemannsretten is great because it allows you to camp at these national parks without worrying about anything. Although some parks have their own rules, so keep track of those.
Jotunheimen National Park: Home of the Giants
If you’ve ever wanted to feel small in the best possible way, Jotunheimen National Park is your place. Picture yourself surrounded by colossal peaks, like Galdhøpiggen—Northern Europe’s tallest mountain—while reindeer casually stroll past, giving you side-eye for your trail mix choices. It’s not just the landscape that’s giant here; the sense of adventure is equally massive.
Jotunheimen National Park in Eastern Norway is also known as the “Home of the Giants.” You probably get why so far. It spans 3,500 square kilometers and is home to Norway’s highest peaks, including Galdhøpiggen, which is 2,469 meters. The Besseggen Ridge hike is a must-do here. It’s challenging but worth every step. The views over the emerald-green Gjende Lake on one side and the deep blue Bessvatnet Lake on the other will leave you speechless (and possibly breathless from the climb). The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) runs several cabins in this park. You can stay in these cabins for a low fee, and if you are a DNT member, you will get a discount. These cabins are quite cozy and good for a night’s rest.
Wildlife and Flora
The wildlife in Jotunheimen National Park is as impressive as its landscapes. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems. You can see reindeer, moose, and even the elusive Arctic fox. If you are into birdwatching, you can easily spot golden eagles above the cliffs. The flora varies with altitude, ranging from hardy mountain plants to colorful wildflowers carpeting the valleys during summer.
Summer is prime time for wildlife spotting. Autumn has stunning foliage. The Sjoa River is famous for rafting in summer and autumn, and you have to try it if you are into rafting. The park becomes a snowy wonderland in winter, perfect for cross-country skiing. The Haute Route ski tour is also a highlight, with stunning views at every turn. Jotunheimen has 250 peaks that you can visit, so that’s why each season has its charm in each peak.
Jostedalsbreen National Park
Jostedalsbreen National Park is home to the largest glacier in mainland Europe, the mighty Jostedalsbreen. Covering nearly half the park, this massive ice sheet carves through the mountains. You may feel like you are in a movie. Jostedalsbreen National Park is in Vestland, Norway, covering 1,310 square kilometers. This park is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Deep fjords, roaring waterfalls, and alpine meadows surround the glacier, offering plenty of hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. And if you’ve ever wanted to walk on a glacier (because, let’s be honest, who hasn’t?), this is the place to do it.
Glacier Hiking
Strap on those crampons and get ready for an unforgettable experience—glacier hiking on Jostedalsbreen is unlike anything else. There are guided tours that take you across the glowing blue ice, past towering crevasses, and through icy caves that look like something from another planet. The most famous glacier arm for hiking is Nigardsbreen, where expert guides ensure you stay safe while having an absolute blast.
The best part? No experience is necessary. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a total beginner, there’s a glacier hike for you. Just dress warm and be ready for a little leg workout—trust me, it’s worth it. Walking on a glacier feels like stepping back in time, and with the ice constantly shifting and changing, no two hikes are ever the same. The highest peak, Lodalskåpa, reaches 2,083 meters (6,834 ft). The lowest point is 350 meters (1,150 ft). Briksdalsbreen (Briksdal Glacier) is a famous glacier here, attracting over 300,000 visitors annually.
Raet National Park
Raet National Park is Norway’s largest marine national park, stretching along the southern coast. Unlike the mountainous parks inland, Raet is all about coastal beauty, featuring rocky shores, sandy beaches, and rolling ocean waves. It’s a paradise for kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring unique geological formations shaped by the Ice Age. Whether you’re paddling through its crystal-clear waters or hiking along the windswept coastline, Raet offers a different side of Norway’s wilderness—one where the sea takes center stage.
Raet National Park covers 607 square kilometers. Most of it, 90%, is under the sea. It’s in Agder County, known as the largest marine national park in Norway. The park was established in 2016, and as you may guess, it’s the perfect place to preserve marine life and ancient geological formations. The park’s deepwater transect goes as deep as 500 meters. It also includes traditional farmlands and cultural landscapes. Raet National Park is a 3-hour and 20-minute drive from Oslo. Kristiansand, the closest big city, is an hour away. For a special experience, you can take a 2.5-hour guided boat tour for 250 NOK for adults and 100 NOK for kids.
Rondane National Park: A Reindeer Haven
Rondane National Park is Norway’s oldest national park, established in 1962, and remains one of the best places to see wild reindeer. The park covers about 1,000 km² and has ten peaks over 2,000 meters, with Rondeslottet at 2,178 meters. Located in central Norway, this park has rolling mountains, deep valleys, and an untouched wilderness that feels like stepping into a nature documentary. It’s a place where solitude and adventure go hand in hand.
With a variety of hiking trails, Rondane caters to both casual walkers and hardcore trekkers. You can take an easy stroll through scenic valleys or challenge yourself with summit climbs that reward you with panoramic views. If you visit in autumn, the entire landscape bursts into fiery shades of red, orange, and gold—like nature’s own farewell party before winter sets in.
Wildlife spotting here is an experience. Rondane is home to one of the last remaining wild reindeer populations in Europe. If you’re lucky, you might catch them grazing on the tundra or moving in herds across the vast, open plateaus. Pro tip: bring binoculars and be patient—these animals are shy and masters of blending into the landscape.
Camping is allowed in most areas, so if you’re up for an overnight adventure, pitch a tent and enjoy Norway’s vast, starry sky. There’s nothing quite like falling asleep in the wilderness with the distant sound of wind whistling through the mountains.
Dovrefjell National Park
Dovrefjell National Park covers an impressive 1,693 square kilometers (654 square miles). It’s a majestic alpine wilderness home to unique species. When combined with other protected areas, it totals 4,366 square kilometers (1,686 square miles) of nature. The Dovrefjell mountain range reaches up to 2,286 meters (7,500 feet). It’s a top spot for adventurers and nature lovers.
Dovrefjell National Park is where the wild things are—literally. This rugged mountain region is famous for its thriving population of musk oxen, those shaggy, prehistoric-looking creatures that look like they walked straight out of the Ice Age. The landscape here is vast, open, and dramatic, making it a paradise for hikers, wildlife lovers, and anyone looking to experience true Norwegian wilderness.
Guided Safaris
If you want to see musk oxen up close (but not too close—trust me, they’re not the cuddly type), guided safaris are the way to go. You can join exciting Norwegian safaris in Dovrejell National Park. For example, check out this safari (this is NOT and ad, nor a reccomendation!): Musk Ox Safari. Experienced guides take you on hikes through the park, sharing insights about these incredible animals and the ecosystem they call home. Along the way, you might also spot golden eagles soaring overhead or even a shy Arctic fox darting between the rocks. The best time to go? Summer and early autumn, when the musk oxen are more active and easier to find. You can also take your own trails and try to spot them without help. Trails like Storhaugen and Moskusstien offer different experiences, and both are great. The Storhaugen Trail is challenging but offers stunning views.
Lofotodden National Park: Island Wilderness
Lofotodden National Park is the new kid on the block, officially established in 2018. The park is in the breathtaking Lofoten Islands, which is all about dramatic coastal cliffs, crystal-clear fjords, and untamed beaches. It’s a dream destination for hikers, kayakers, and photographers chasing those perfect Arctic light conditions. There are many hiking trails to choose from. They range from easy to challenging, lasting from 2.5 to 13 hours.
The park spans 99 km² of Moskenesøya island and its coastal waters. It’s a safe home for both land and sea creatures. The park’s stunning coastal mountains are part of the Lofoten Archipelago. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves nature. This place is key for island conservation. It fights against too many tourists and offers a pristine spot for visitors. You can enjoy the rich mountain plants and the area’s rich history.
Endangered Species and Marine Life
Lofotodden is home to rich marine ecosystems, including endangered seabirds like puffins and sea eagles. The surrounding waters also host killer whales, seals, and massive schools of cod. The diversity of marine life makes this park special despite being relatively new. It’s also a top spot for eco-tourism. You can also take snorkeling and diving trips to see the amazing marine life up close. It’s one of the rare places that offer a glimpse into Norway’s underwater world.
Borgefjell National Park: Tranquility Amongst Peaks
Borgefjell National Park is a hidden gem in Norway’s wilderness. It’s one of the few parks that offers a true escape into nature. The park is around 1,447 square kilometers, and it sits on the border between Nordland and Trøndelag counties. One of the reasons why this park is a true escape from nature is because it was established in 1969. It’s one of Norway’s oldest national parks and remains one of the least visited. Perfect if you want some calmness and tranquility! It’s a remote paradise where nature rules and mobile signals are as rare as crowds.
Wildlife enthusiasts will find a lot of animals to look at. There is a mix of everything from lynxes to golden eagles soaring overhead. The park’s isolation has allowed its ecosystem to thrive with minimal human interference. Hiking here is a back-to-basics experience—no marked trails, no tourist facilities, just raw, untouched wilderness. If you’re up for the challenge, the reward is a complete immersion in Norway’s untamed beauty.
Fun fact: Borgefjell is one of the few places in Norway where you might hear the eerie call of the great northern diver (common loon). Its haunting cries echo across the lakes, adding to the park’s mystical atmosphere. If that doesn’t make you feel like you’ve stepped into a nature documentary, nothing will!
Fishing in Borgefjell’s Rivers
Fishing in Borgefjell National Park is a thrilling experience. Borgefjell is a dream for anglers, with crystal-clear rivers teeming with trout and Arctic char. The fishing here is legendary, but patience is key—this is nature at its purest, where the fish are as wild as the landscape. The best time to visit is late summer when the waters are clear, and the fish are most active. Be sure to get a local fishing permit and follow catch-and-release guidelines to keep this ecosystem thriving.
Hardangervidda National Park: Norway’s Largest Park
Hardangervidda is Norway’s biggest national park and a true wilderness paradise. Spanning an impressive 3,422 square kilometers, this vast expanse of rolling tundra and rugged mountain terrain stretches across several counties. Heaven, if you are an outdoor person. Established in 1981, Hardangervidda is an adventure playground offering everything from multi-day hikes to world-class fishing and cross-country skiing.
One of the park’s biggest claims to fame? It’s home to Europe’s largest population of wild reindeer. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures migrating across the plateau. The landscape itself is a mix of open plains, glacier-fed rivers, and dramatic cliffs, making every hike feel like a scene straight out of a Nordic fairytale. In 1996, over 15,000 wild reindeer were found in the park. By 2008, this number had dropped to around 8,000. The park is still a key place for Europe’s biggest wild reindeer herd. The west side gets very wet, with over 1,000 millimeters of rain each year. The east side is drier.
For those who enjoy long-distance trekking, the Hardangervidda route is a classic. With well-marked trails and cozy DNT huts along the way, it’s perfect for those who want to experience Norway’s backcountry without carrying a tent. And if you visit in winter, swap out your hiking boots for skis—this park transforms into a cross-country skiing wonderland.
Roald Amundsen, the legendary polar explorer, trained here before his historic expedition to the South Pole. So, if Hardangervidda is good enough for one of history’s greatest adventurers, it’s worth adding to your bucket list!
Planning Your Trip to Norway National Parks
Exploring Norway national parks is a must if you are planning your trip to Norway. With 47 national parks, each offers unique natural beauty and outdoor adventures. However, with this many options, you have to plan your trip to Norway’s national parks meticulously. Pick the ones you really want to visit and know what to expect.
You can climb Norway’s highest mountains in Jotunheimen National Park or see the largest glacier in mainland Europe in Jostedalsbreen National Park. The first thing is the timing. Generally, summer is the best time to hike and camp in the national parks. Consider June to September for better weather and longer days. If you prefer winter sports, December to March is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Summer temperatures are between 10 and 20°C (50–68°F), while winter can be below 0°C (32°F). This makes winter a magical time to visit but also hard to plan for.
The other is the accommodation. You will likely spend at least one night at each park you are visiting or at least in most of them. Otherwise, it’d be too short of a trip that’s not worth it. Know which accommodation fits your needs best. Do you need luxury? Or are you okay with simple tent camping? You can find all options at all price ranges. Take a look at the options and try to book them in advance.
Lastly, you must follow local guidelines and respect the environment when exploring Norway’s parks. The “right to roam” rule allows you to camp at any public property as long as it is at least 150 meters away from a habituated place. However, you must always respect private property and wildlife. Collect after yourself, don’t camp near residential areas, and never bother the wildlife.
Conclusion
Norway’s national parks aren’t just places to visit—they’re experiences. Whether you’re trekking through the rugged peaks of Jotunheimen, watching musk oxen roam the tundra in Dovrefjell, or glacier hiking in Jostedalsbreen, each park offers a unique adventure. These landscapes are wild, breathtaking, and often one of the best ways to spend your vacation if you are an outdoor person.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just looking for a scenic escape, there’s a national park here waiting for you. And who knows? You might just leave with a reindeer sighting, a glacier selfie, or at least a really great story to tell. Happy exploring!
FAQ
Why should I visit Norway national parks?
Norway’s national parks are a chance to see dramatic landscapes. You’ll find towering mountains and glacial fjords. They’re great for outdoor adventures and let you dive into the untouched Norwegian wilderness.
What are the conservation rules in Norway’s national parks?
Norway cares a lot about keeping nature safe. Visitors must follow the “Leave No Trace” rules. This means staying on trails, disposing of waste rights, and respecting animals. It will help to keep the parks beautiful for everyone in the future.
What wildlife can be found in Jotunheimen National Park?
Jotunheimen National Park is home to many animals, like the Arctic fox and birds. You’ll also see alpine plants that grow in the park’s tough terrain. It’s a top spot for nature lovers.
Is glacier hiking available in Jostedalsbreen National Park?
Yes, Jostedalsbreen National Park offers glacier hiking. You can explore Europe’s biggest glacier on guided tours. It’s a thrilling way to see the icy landscape.
Can I see a reindeer in Rondane National Park?
Absolutely! Rondane National Park is a great place to see wild reindeer. The mountains are perfect for spotting animals, making it great for photographers and animal lovers.
Are guided safaris available in Dovrefjell National Park?
Yes, guided safaris are popular in Dovrefjell National Park. They let you see musk oxen and other animals while learning about the park’s history.
Is fishing allowed in Borgefjell National Park?
Yes, fishing is allowed in Borgefjell National Park, in its rivers and lakes.
How should I plan my trip to Norway’s national parks?
First, research the parks you want to visit. Think about the weather, how easy they are to get to, and what you can do there. Plan your trip to include hiking, wildlife watching, and other outdoor activities. Booking guided tours can also make your trip better.