Dovrefjell is a wild and rugged mountain range in the heart of Norway. A large portion of the range is protected as Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park, an outdoor recreation area where you can hike, camp and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the alpine area.
Snøhetta towers 2,286 metres high and is the tallest mountain in the range. Well-worn trails wind up to the summit and reward you with panoramic views over the surrounding mountains. The return hike takes around six to eight hours. Winter snowfall transforms Dovrefjell into an outdoor playground for cross-country skiing.
As you explore the trails, you may pass centuries-old mountain inns used by pilgrims travelling through the valleys and passes. Look out for wild reindeer and musk oxen grazing in the grasslands. There’s also a chance to spot Arctic foxes and wolverines. The family-friendly Norwegian Wild Reindeer Centre Pavilion in Hjerkinn offers more information on the park’s most famous residents. You can also enjoy spectacular views of Snøhetta.
Getting there
The towns of Dovre and Dombas are great bases for exploring the Dovrefjell mountains in Central Norway. Dovre is a two-hour drive from Lillehammer and four hours from Oslo. Express trains run between Oslo and Dovre in around four hours.