Femundsmarka National Park

Femundsmarka National Park is one of Norway's oldest national parks, set in the east of the country right next to the Swedish border. It is a wide landscape of lakes, marshes and thin forest, best known as a canoeing and hiking destination far from the crowds.

Where is the park and how big is it?

The park was established on 9 July 1971 and covers 573 km². It straddles two regions: one part lies in Engerdal municipality (Innlandet county), the other in Røros municipality (Trøndelag county). For many visitors, Røros, the old mining town, is the natural base. The park centre sits at roughly 62.22° N, 12.12° E.

Why was it protected?

The aim was to preserve Lake Femunden, Norway's second-largest natural lake, together with the forests and wilderness stretching east toward Sweden. Information from the park describes it as an area saved from hydropower development. Today it remains one of the largest wild refuges in eastern Norway.

What is the landscape like?

Mostly lakes and wetlands, with sparse pine and birch woodland. Several summits reach around 1,500 m, and the highest, Storviglen, rises to 1,561 m in the northeast. Femunden itself lies at about 662 m above sea level, and the park borders its northeastern shore.

What can you do here?

Femundsmarka is often called Norway's great canoe wilderness. Paddling routes are popular, especially along the Røa river system, though some stretches require portaging. Walkers have a network of trails, and in winter there are ski routes. A boat, MS Fæmund II, runs day trips on the lake.

What wildlife lives here?

Wetlands attract waterfowl, the surrounding forests hold woodpeckers and owls, and the lakes and rivers hold Arctic char and trout. With almost no settlements inside, you can expect real quiet and dark night skies.

Frequently asked questions

Is the park crowded? No. It is one of the more remote places in southern Norway, which makes it ideal for anyone after solitude.

How do I get there? Røros on the Trøndelag side is the most convenient base; from there you head toward Lake Femunden and the trailheads.

When is the best time to visit? Summer for hiking and canoe trips, winter for cross-country skiing. Check current conditions and trail maps before you go.

Should I prepare for changing weather? Yes. In open terrain around the lakes the weather can turn quickly, so bring suitable clothing, a map and enough food, as there are no shops along the routes.

Can I paddle independently? Yes, but expect portages between lakes and rivers, and plan your overnight stops in advance.

Femundsmarka National Park is a strong choice for travellers who want raw northern nature without commercial bustle.