Hardangervidda National Park
The largest wild reindeer herds in the world.Norway's largest national park spans 3,400 square kilometers of Arctic tundra, where wild reindeer roam across mountains and plateaus. Hikers explore trails between mountain huts and glacial lakes.
Hardangervidda National Park covers 3,422 square kilometers across Norway's largest mountain plateau. Walk past thundering Vøringsfossen waterfall, watch thousands of wild reindeer migrate across vast moorlands, or cycle the historic Rallarvegen route as it winds between glacial lakes and rocky outcrops. In winter, cross-country ski between remote mountain huts while watching for arctic foxes and snowy owls in this high-altitude wilderness.
Getting to Hardangervidda
Take the Bergen railway line or drive Highway 7 to reach Hardangervidda. The train journey from Oslo to Finse takes 4.5 hours. At 1,222 meters above sea level, the mountain town of Finse serves as your gateway to both summer hiking and winter skiing adventures.
Summer Activities in the Park
Hiking trails across the plateau open from July through September. Walk the challenging Finse-Rembesdalseter-Kjeldebu circuit around Hardangerjøkulen glacier, or take shorter day hikes from marked trailheads. The Norwegian Mountain Touring Association (DNT) marks and maintains trails connecting mountain huts throughout the park.
Winter Experience
From December through April, cross-country ski trails crisscross the snow-covered plateau. The high elevation ensures reliable snow conditions for both day trips and multi-day skiing routes between mountain huts. Finse becomes particularly active in winter, with marked ski routes extending in all directions.
Wildlife and Arctic Environment
Look for Norway's southernmost arctic species above the tree line. Arctic foxes dart between rocks, while snowy owls scan the plateau for prey. Thousands of wild reindeer migrate seasonally across the park, following routes their ancestors have used for millennia.
Mountain Huts and Accommodation
Stay at one of seven staffed DNT lodges or five self-service huts in the park. Base yourself at Halne Fjellstugu along Highway 7 to explore the eastern section, or stop overnight at Sandhaug hut in the park's center during multi-day treks. You can also pitch your tent anywhere in the park, following Norway's Right to Roam principles.
Historical Significance
Ancient stone tools and settlements across Hardangervidda reveal human activity from thousands of years ago. Walk the Nordmannsslepa, an ancient trade route that once connected eastern and western Norway across the plateau. Today, many of these historic paths form part of the modern hiking trail network.
Essential Preparation
Pack warm clothing, rain gear, and navigation tools even for summer hikes - weather conditions change quickly on the plateau. Visit the park's information centers in Øvre Eidfjord or Skinnarbu for current maps, weather forecasts, and trail conditions. If hiking between July and September, book mountain huts in advance through DNT's website.
