Hardangervidda National Park Travel Guide: Discover Norway’s Vast Wilderness

Nestled in the heart of southern Norway lies Hardangervidda National Park, the largest national park in the country and one of Europe’s most expansive mountain plateaus. This extraordinary landscape offers a combination of rugged wilderness, dramatic vistas, glacial formations, and an abundance of wildlife. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a nature enthusiast, or a casual traveler seeking Nordic beauty, Hardangervidda promises a raw and unforgettable experience.
 

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about visiting Hardangervidda National Park, from top attractions and activities to travel tips and seasonal highlights.

📍 Where is Hardangervidda National Park?

Hardangervidda National Park stretches across three counties in Norway: Vestland, Viken, and Vestfold og Telemark. It covers an impressive 3,422 square kilometers, making it the largest national park in Norway. The plateau sits at an average elevation of 1,100 meters, with some of its peaks reaching over 1,700 meters above sea level.

The park is accessible from several key towns, including Geilo, Odda, Rjukan, and Eidfjord, making it a popular detour for those traveling along the scenic Hardangerfjord or exploring southern Norway.

🏞️ A Land of Raw, Untamed Beauty

Hardangervidda is not just a destination—it’s an experience. The landscape is a unique blend of glacial valleys, windswept plateaus, alpine lakes, and dramatic waterfalls. The sheer scale and silence of the park offer a sense of isolation and freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere in Europe.

Key Features of the Landscape:

Vast tundra and moorland

Countless glacial lakes and rivers

Steep cliffs and escarpments, particularly on the western edge

Snow patches and glaciers, especially near Hårteigen peak

🦌 Home to Europe’s Largest Wild Reindeer Herd

One of Hardangervidda’s most notable features is its population of wild reindeer, the largest in Europe. These majestic creatures roam freely across the plateau and are deeply tied to Norway’s indigenous Sami culture and natural heritage.

Reindeer Facts:

Population: Approximately 10,000–15,000 individuals

Adapted to cold, arctic conditions

Can sometimes be seen migrating across the park

If you’re lucky, you may spot a herd during a trek—an experience that connects visitors with the ancient rhythms of the wild.

🥾 Outdoor Activities in Hardangervidda

Hardangervidda is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the most popular ways to explore the park:

1. Hiking

With hundreds of kilometers of marked trails, Hardangervidda is one of the best places to hike in Norway.

Top Hiking Routes:

Trekking from Finse to Haugastøl: A classic route featuring alpine lakes and open plateaus.

Rjukan to Kalhovd: Offers great views and historical significance from the WWII sabotage missions.

Hårteigen Hike: For experienced hikers, this iconic peak offers panoramic views of the plateau.

2. Fishing

The lakes and rivers of Hardangervidda are teeming with trout, attracting anglers from around the world.

Best spots: Skrykken, Møsvatn, and Langesjøen

Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or in local towns

3. Cross-Country Skiing

In winter, the park transforms into a white wonderland ideal for skiing.

Trails are prepared from February through April

Finse and Haugastøl are popular starting points

4. Wildlife Watching

Besides reindeer, you might encounter arctic foxes, wolverines, ptarmigans, and even golden eagles.

Visit in early morning or evening for the best chances

Bring binoculars and keep a respectful distance

🧭 Visitor Centers & Entry Points

There are several entry points and visitor centers that provide insights into the park’s geology, flora, fauna, and cultural history.

🏛️ Hardangervidda Nature Centre – Eidfjord

One of the most comprehensive visitor centers

Features interactive exhibits on glaciers, ecosystems, and climate

Great for families and first-time visitors

🏕️ Møsvatn Area (near Rjukan)

Home to the Møsstrond reindeer and beautiful hiking routes

Ideal for longer, more remote treks

🏔️ Finse

Only accessible by train via the Bergen Line

Offers immediate access to alpine terrain

📅 Best Time to Visit Hardangervidda

Hardangervidda is accessible year-round, but the experience varies dramatically by season.

☀️ Summer (June to August)

Best for hiking and fishing

Long daylight hours (Midnight Sun effect in northern parts)

Moderate temperatures (10–20°C)

🍂 Autumn (September to October)

Stunning fall colors

Fewer tourists

Cooler weather and potential early snow

❄️ Winter (November to April)

Great for skiing and snowshoeing

Access may be limited in some areas

Northern lights possible on clear nights

🌱 Spring (May to early June)

Snow begins to melt

Rivers swell with glacial runoff

Wildlife reemerges

🏡 Accommodation Options

Though wild camping is permitted under Norway’s Right to Roam (Allemannsretten), there are also structured lodging options:

Mountain Cabins & Lodges (DNT Cabins)

Operated by the Norwegian Trekking Association

Can be staffed or self-service

Advance booking recommended in summer

Hotels and Guesthouses

Found in nearby towns like Geilo, Eidfjord, and Rjukan

Provide comfortable stays with access to guided tours

Camping

Free camping is allowed, but must be 150 meters away from houses or cabins

Leave no trace: carry out all garbage and minimize fire use

🛣️ How to Get There

🚆 By Train

Bergen Line passes through Finse—a great jumping-off point

Trains run between Oslo and Bergen, stopping at several access points

🚗 By Car

From Oslo: ~4 hours via E134 or Rv7

From Bergen: ~3.5 hours via E16

🚌 By Bus

Buses serve towns like Eidfjord, Geilo, and Rjukan

🌍 Sustainability & Conservation

Hardangervidda is a protected national park, and visitors are expected to respect nature and help preserve its delicate ecosystem.

Guidelines for Visitors:

Stick to marked trails to avoid erosion

Do not disturb wildlife or plant life

Camp responsibly and follow fire regulations

Carry out all trash

Use eco-friendly gear and transport where possible

🧭 Historical and Cultural Significance

WWII History

Hardangervidda was a critical site for resistance fighters during World War II, especially in the sabotage missions against the German heavy water plant in Vemork near Rjukan.

Sami Culture

Though not a primary Sami settlement area today, the plateau was historically used for reindeer herding and seasonal migration.

📸 Top Instagram-Worthy Spots

Hårteigen Peak – “The King of Hardangervidda”

Vøringsfossen Waterfall – near Eidfjord, just outside the park boundary

Lake Møsvatn – reflecting tranquil alpine beauty

Finse Glacier Views – with snow-covered peaks in the backdrop

🧳 Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Dress in layers – weather changes quickly on the plateau.

Bring waterproof gear – rain and snow are common, even in summer.

Pack a map and compass – GPS doesn’t always work in remote areas.

Use the DNT app – to plan hikes and find available cabins.

Check weather and avalanche warnings – especially in winter.

🌄 Final Thoughts: Is Hardangervidda Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Hardangervidda National Park is a place of immense natural beauty, serenity, and adventure. Whether you're there for a multi-day trek, a peaceful fishing trip, or simply to disconnect from the modern world, the park offers a profound connection to nature and Norway’s rugged spirit.