One of Norway's striking national parks ideal for hiking
Designated as a national park in 1981, Hardangervidda National Park is the largest in Norway. It spans the rugged Hardangervidda mountain plateau, known as Norway’s “rooftop”, with the highest point being 1,863 metres (6,112 ft) at the top of the Hardangerjøkulen glacier.
As the whole of the mountain plateau is above the tree line, the park’s scenery is characterised by barren moorlands, glaciers, lakes, rivers and streams. Much of the Hardangervidda's geology is very ancient, and most landscapes here were shaped by glaciers during the Ice Ages.
Due to its alpine climate, the park contains several species of arctic plants and animals, including one of the world’s largest herds of wild reindeer. It is also believed that this area has been occupied by humans for thousands of years, as evidenced by several Stone Age settlement remains and ancient trails crossing the plateau.
Today, Hardangervidda National Park serves as a popular tourist destination for activities like fishing, wildlife viewing, cycling, horseback riding, canoeing, hiking and more. The park is open year-round and a stop to the Hardangervidda Nature Centre (Hardangervidda natursenter) in Eidfjord is highly recommended. Both the Bergensbanen railway line and the main Highway 7 cross through the Hardangervidda plateau.
