The best hiking routes in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella nasjonalpark

Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella nasjonalpark is a vast Norwegian highland plateau split by a sharp contrast between its eastern and western halves. The eastern section, centered around the massive peak of Snøhetta, consists of dry, barren stone deserts, blocky scree fields, and open lichen-covered tundra. In contrast, the western part of the park drops steeply into deep, sheer-sided valleys like Amådalen, where the terrain becomes greener, wetter, and much steeper.

Underfoot, walkers will find a mix of rough, unmarked stony ground and established paths. The main trails are often stony, requiring steady footwork over loose rocks and boulders, while lower valley sections can feature boggy peat that requires careful stepping. There are very few boardwalks, meaning you must be prepared to navigate wet mires and cross streams on foot, especially during the main summer hiking season from July to September.

This park is not a place for gentle forest strolls or manicured gravel paths. It is a demanding, high-altitude landscape where the vegetation is kept low and scrubby by the harsh alpine climate. While the area around Kongsvold and the Snøhetta viewpoint attracts more visitors, the vast interior valleys remain much quieter, offering a stark, rocky environment shaped by ancient glaciers.