There was not an exact match for the language you toggled to. You have been redirected to the nearest matching page within this section.
Scandic Hotels – in all major cities from north to south
Nordic Choice Hotels – a different hotel company
Thon Hotels – with fantastic breakfast
Radisson Blu Hotels – discover your favourite destinations
Classic Norway Hotels – From distinctive hotels to authentic fisherman's cabins
Citybox – modern and affordable hotels in a central location
DanCenter – your specialist in holiday homes in Norway
Norgesbooking – book your perfect cabin stay in Norway
Campcation – book camping all across Norway with Campcation
Campanyon - discover unique stays in nature
Vy – travelling by train has never been easier
SJ NORD – the adventure starts on the train
Vy express – travel with bus throughout Norway
NOR-WAY Bussekspress – experience amazing scenery by bus
Widerøe – the largest regional airline in Scandinavia
DFDS – Europe’s leading ferry operator 2012-2021
AutoEurope – always a smooth car rental experience
Rent-A-Wreck – the smart car rental alternative
Arctic Campers – Norway’s camper van rental
Cabin Campers – your cottage on four wheels
Hurtigruten – "The World’s Most Beautiful Sea Voyage"
Fjord Tours – Home of Norway in a nutshell® - Norway’s most popular tour
Authentic Scandinavia – Travel created by locals
Up Norway – Bespoke luxury tailored by insiders
Discover Norway – skiing, biking and hiking tours in Norway
Norrøna Hvitserk – expeditions and adventure holidays
Booknordics.com – hundreds of activities, tours and day cruises in Norway
Brim Explorer – silent fjord tours by electric catamaran
Fjord Travel – let us show you the beauty of Norway!
Go Fjords – tours and activities all over Norway
50 Degrees North – unforgettable tailor-made and small group tours to Norway
Norwegian Holidays – low-price package holidays with Norwegian. Flight, hotel and rental car
Stromma – Norwegian city sightseeing with bus and boat
My Nordic Travel – Do It Yourself, make your own itinerary
Ski holidays in Rauland – Go skiing in beautiful mountain nature
{{title}} {{:price}} - {{!preprice}} Price: {{?}} {{preprice}} {{/}} {{price}} {{:postprice}}{{postprice}}{{/}} {{?:pricing}} - {{pricing}} {{/pricing}}
Follow in the footsteps of Gjermund Nordskar, who hiked in 37 of Norway’s 47 national parks and wrote a book about it! Get tips for how to avoid the beaten track and find trails in some lesser-known areas.
You often hear that Norway is known for its clean, untouched nature. The core is the 47 national parks that are spread around the country.
Gjermund Nordskar has written the book Til topps i Norges nasjonalparker (“To the top of Norway’s national parks”) about his hiking trips where he spent 80 days in 37 of the national parks found in mainland Norway. He believes that the huge park areas are easily accessible for most people.“If you travel outside of the most visited areas, you can romp around in untouched nature that stretches longer than the eye can reach”, Nordskar says.
The national parks are partly vulnerable ecosystems and nature that Norway’s environmental authorities have decided to protect. 20,000 kilometres of hiking trails and cross-country skiing tracks are clearly marked with painted Ts, the sign of the Norwegian Trekking Association. In these areas, visitors will also often find accommodation offers.
Just on the outside of many of the parks, there are modern visitor centres with useful information and gear, usually where you normally park to enter. Remember to show respect for nature and animals, people, and local traditions. In short, leave the landscape as you would like to find it. The Norwegian Environment Agency has more information about protected areas.
Olav Nord-Varhaug runs the section for The national parks of Norway at the Norwegian Environment Agency.
“The nature in the national parks is robust. It can endure much more use than we see today”, he says.
Hikers are good at posting their national park experiences on social media. Gjermund Nordskar says that these posts are positive for raising awareness of the opportunities the national parks have to offer. At the same time, though, you’ll usually see images from only a few of the 47 parks on Instagram and Facebook.
So, which of his favourite lesser-known parks would he send us to?
Nordskar quickly mentions Lomsdal-Visten in Helgeland, Seiland near Hammerfest in the far north, Breheimen north of the innermost part of the Sognefjord, and Rago and Sjunkhatten in Salten, just north of the city of Bodø in Northern Norway. All of them have a distinctive character with experiences for the whole family, he says.
“Lomsdal-Visten is known as ‘the unknown country’ and offers one of Norway’s last wildernesses.”
“Seiland offers a stunning island landscape in Finnmark’s archipelago.”
“Breheimen is a lesser-visited mountain range with numerous small glaciers and beautiful mountains. The park lies in the shadow of its big brother Jotunheimen.”
“Rago is a park for your inner adventurer, with amazing waterfalls and colours.”
“Sjunkhatten has wild nature and great contrasts. Here, white-tailed eagles hover above your head, and the steep mountain walls rise right up from the fjord. Sjunkhatten is also known as the ‘Children’s national park’ with kid-friendly activities.”
“Each of these national parks have a distinctive character with experiences for the whole family.”
Skiing
Alpine or freestyle skiing gives you both the experience of unspoilt nature and the feeling of speed and adrenaline. Gjermund Nordskar recommends Jotunheimen, Saltfjellet-Svartisen, Ånderdalen (Senja), and Møysalen national parks.
Cross-country skiing is a good way of travelling in gentle mountain ranges. If you want to try it for yourself, Nordskar points to Rondane, Hardangervidda, Femundsmarka, Børgefjell, Lahko, Øvre Pasvik, and Varangerhalvøya national parks.
Kayaking and canoeing
In the summertime, you can go kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. The national parks Hvaler, Færder, Seiland, and Sjunkhatten are great for kayaking as a means of transport.
Hiking
All of Norway’s 47 national parks are great for hiking.
Fishing
In most of the national parks, you'll find plenty of secluded clear lakes, rivers, and streams teeming with fish. Get a fishing licence and try your luck.
Which smells from the national parks were left in Gjermund Nordskar’s nostrils after his 37 hiking expeditions?
“Well, it feels special to smell the sea when you stand on a high mountain. In Norway, we have numerous mountains, but also a lot of terrain with pine needles. Trøndelag comprises a lot of areas of marsh, including its seven national parks Lierne, Blåfjella-Skjækerfjella, Forollhogna, Femundsmarka, Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella, Skarvan, and Roltdalen. Even the wind on the mountain peaks has its own, fresh smell, which is unlike anything else. In the mountains, you simply smell clean oxygen”, tells Nordskar.
When you’re going on a hike, remember to bring warm clothes – a warm jacket and pull-on trousers, as well as a woollen sweater. “If there is an accident, it is crucial to stay warm”, Nordskar emphasizes.
“Keep your hands warm. Always bring at least two pairs of gloves or mittens. One of them should be wind and waterproof. In rough weather, ordinary ski gloves are not sufficiently protective. When they get wet, they suck the heat out of your hands. Once your hands get cold, you lose the ability to use them to perform even the most basic things. Icy hands will also prevent you from picking up your smartphone to take great photos”, says Nordskar.
Navigation and communication equipment is essential on long trips. In many mountain areas, mobile coverage is poor, so a personal tracker or similar gear can turn out to be useful. For navigation, a map and a compass is a must. Think of your GPSr only as a backup.
“Also bring a power bank to charge your mobile phone”, Nordskar recommends.
If you don’t feel that you have enough experience to venture into the great outdoors on your own, many local tour operators can help you experience nature in the best and safest way possible.
“The nature in the national parks can endure much more use than we see today.”
And if you have low ambitions for your trip?
“Then you can just hike a few steps into nature and lay in the heather. You can eat berries and take pictures”, Nordskar says reassuringly.
“You can also use one of the many local tour operators. Hiking guides know the wilderness.”
Local food should be a part of your visit to a national park.
“Risotto cooked on a camp stove became my team’s most popular meal. Preferably accompanied by onions, garlic, cheese, and vegetables. Although the national parks have many eateries, my team did not visit these during our 37 trips, as the goal was to stay self-sufficient”, Nordskar tells.
Olav Nord-Varhaug says that the national park authorities think excellent food offers are an increasing part of the total hiking experience.
“High-quality local food, drink and accommodation make it easier for hikers to spend a whole day or more in nature. Many small places inside or just outside the national parks now have restaurants and other offers that stand out.”
You can get delicious local food made from the areas’ fresh ingredients in Lom, Langsua, Folgefonna, Hardangervidda, and many other parks.
According to Nord-Varhaug, very little or no garbage is left behind by visitors in the national parks. “The hikers seem to be aware of the impact on the environment.”
Did Nordskar lose something during these 37 trips, things that have been left in nature?
“Yes, a cover bag for the tent. It was taken by the wind, and hopefully, it found a happy new owner. Otherwise, we kept surprisingly good control during our 80 days.”
To observe rare animals, you should travel to areas where they thrive and come to eat and drink. “But make sure to read up on animal wildlife before you go hiking”, says Nordskar.
In the wilderness, you can stumble upon moose, reindeer, and rare birds. Don’t approach them – observe from a distance, and retract calmly. You might want to join a wildlife safari with guides who know where you’re most likely to spot the animals and, most importantly, how to stay safe – especially if you want to see species you shouldn’t seek out on your own, like musk oxen.
1. Plan your trip and inform others about the route you have selected.
2. Adapt your planned route according to your ability and the conditions.
3. Pay attention to the weather forecast and avalanche warnings.
4. Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.
5. Bring the necessary equipment, so you can aid yourself and others.
6. Choose safe routes. Recognise avalanche terrain and unsafe ice.
7. Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are.
8. Don’t be ashamed of turning around and going back.
9.Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary.
Skiing
Alpine or freestyle skiing gives you both the experience of unspoilt nature and the feeling of speed and adrenaline. Gjermund Nordskar recommends Jotunheimen, Saltfjellet-Svartisen, Ånderdalen (Senja), and Møysalen national parks.
Cross-country skiing is a good way of travelling in gentle mountain ranges. If you want to try it for yourself, Nordskar points to Rondane, Hardangervidda, Femundsmarka, Børgefjell, Lahko, Øvre Pasvik, and Varangerhalvøya national parks.
Kayaking and canoeing
In the summertime, you can go kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. The national parks Hvaler, Færder, Seiland, and Sjunkhatten are great for kayaking as a means of transport.
Hiking
All of Norway’s 47 national parks are great for hiking.
Fishing
In most of the national parks, you'll find plenty of secluded clear lakes, rivers, and streams teeming with fish. Get a fishing licence and try your luck.
One of the best things about hiking is that everyone can do it! Find a hike that suits your fitness level.
Book your next Norwegian holiday adventure now.
Guided hike up Pulpit Rock. Discover Bergen's historic charm with your private guide. Indulge in a spa retreat at a historic fjordside hotel. Enjoy long leisurely evenings in the garden and dine in style after kayaking or swimming in the fjords. | 50 Degrees North
A 7-day tour featuring the best of Norway, including a 3-day trek and a train trip from Oslo to Finse, a stay in Flåm, express boat to Bergen, and a RIB boat safari in the Nærøyfjord. Stunning nature, charming lodges, and fantastic scenery and company! | 50 Degrees North
A walk through Norwegian history, combined with breathtaking scenery. Walk in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims and be inspired by the varied nature of the cultural landscape and high mountain terrain. | Discover Norway
The Discovery Route from the 1880s was the first-ever high-end fjord package holiday to be sold in Norway. Now we will take you through the incomparable beauty of Norway in all its diversity. | Up Norway.
With its unique location between small islands, sandy beaches and high mountains, Manshausen is one of Norway’s best adventure playgrounds. This 4-day tour includes sea kayaking, guided hikes and caving. The Nordskot Traverse can be included! | 50 Degrees North
Join us on an adventurous hike to the Trolltunga plateau and spend your night in a comfortable dome. Dinner, breakfast, and gear included.| Book Nordics
Travel by train, boat, and bus to experience the Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord. Visit Oslo, Bergen, and the fjord villages of Flåm, Balestrand and Ulvik. | Authentic Scandinavia
Experience steep, majestic mountains, and islands with pearly white beaches and clear turquoise water. This 6-day winter tour includes Tromsø, Finnsnes, and Hamn in Senja. See the northern lights from a hot tub, if you're lucky! | 50 Degrees North
Travelling on a premium 50 Degrees North mini-coach, hike Galdhøpiggen, Northern Europe’s highest mountain, reaching 2,469 metres above sea level. 7-day premium small group tour featuring the best hikes in Norway. | 50 Degrees North
Do you want to combine mountain hiking with culture? A hike in one of Norway's most majestic mountain landscapes. Varied and easy highland terrain. Hike on your own without a guide. The package includes luggage transport, overnight accommodation, and meals. | Discover Norway
One of the most popular hikes in Norway. Our bus provides easy and comfortable round trip transport from Stavanger. Be aware that this hike is unguided, however, the trail is well marked with distance markers. Relax and enjoy the view. | Go Fjords
There is no need to wait until you’re here to find out what you’d like to do.
Here is a selection of other articles you might like.
Norwegian nature is soothing and serene, perfect for a relaxing digital detox. Set aside time to reconnect with yourself, the people around you, and mother nature herself. Here are 11 unforgettable escapes.
Norway offers top conditions for freshwater fishing and fly fishing. Here, you're spoilt for choice with secluded clear lakes, rivers, and streams teeming with fish.
Wildlife safaris bring you safely into a unique animal kingdom. Get close to whales, king crabs, the shaggy survivor from the last glacial epoch – the musk ox, and more!
Go coastal biking, mountain biking, or road biking! Exploring Norway by bike is a fantastic holiday experience, with plenty of unforgettable cycling routes.
The Norwegian nature is home to thousands of animals – this is how they want you to behave when you visit.
Take part in numerous outdoor activities in stunning nature! Norway is a natural playground and a world-class destination for adventurous travellers.
Want your holiday to stand out on Instagram? Let professional hiker Andreas Orset introduce you to some of Norway’s most photogenic spots – that not so many people know about.
Outdoor fitness trainer Lasse Tufte always seeks out areas of peace and quiet, with lots of fresh air, fantastic views, rewarding activities – and fewer visitors.
Step into the kingdom of the mythical musk oxen. Go hiking, biking, and horseback riding or visit the award-winning Viewpoint Snøhetta.
An extensive network of hiking cabins allows you to discover more of Norway on your holiday. Hike from cabin to cabin along the coast, in the forests, and in the mountains.
At once tranquil and sublime, Rondane national park is an ideal place to experience the mountains and highlands of Eastern Norway.
Jotunheimen is a massive mountain area in Eastern Norway, home to Norway’s two highest mountains, Galdhøpiggen and Glittertind. Other highlights include the Besseggen ridge, the Gjende lake, the Sjoa river, and Vettisfossen waterfall.
Back to top