Femundsmarka National Park
Scandinavia's largest continuous wilderness, offering pristine lakes, forests, and mountains for canoeing, fishing, and hiking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer mosquitoes, best light
Femundsmarka National Park
Best Time
Fewer mosquitoes, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scandinavia's largest continuous wilderness, offering pristine lakes, forests, and mountains for canoeing, fishing, and hiking.
"A true wilderness escape with incredible opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and wildlife spotting."
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Crucial
Don't underestimate the mosquitoes! Pack strong repellent, especially for summer visits.
💧 Waterproof Gear is a Must
Expect wet conditions. Waterproof shoes and clothing are essential for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canoeing Adventures
Lakes and rivers
Glide through pristine waters, surrounded by untouched nature. A quintessential Femundsmarka experience.
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the park
Spot reindeer, moose, and potentially even bears in their natural habitat. Keep a respectful distance!
Hiking Trails
Various marked paths
Explore diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open mountain terrain. Trails offer stunning vistas.
Winter Wonderland
Across the park
Experience the magic of snow-covered landscapes, perfect for skiing and dog sledding.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wilderness: Pack Smart
Timing is Key for Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Crucial
Don't underestimate the mosquitoes! Pack strong repellent, especially for summer visits.
💧 Waterproof Gear is a Must
Expect wet conditions. Waterproof shoes and clothing are essential for comfort.
🛶 Pack for Canoe Trips
If canoeing, ensure you have appropriate gear and knowledge for wilderness paddling.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be uneven and wet; good footwear is key for enjoyable hikes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Crucial
Don't underestimate the mosquitoes! Pack strong repellent, especially for summer visits.
💧 Waterproof Gear is a Must
Expect wet conditions. Waterproof shoes and clothing are essential for comfort.
🛶 Pack for Canoe Trips
If canoeing, ensure you have appropriate gear and knowledge for wilderness paddling.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be uneven and wet; good footwear is key for enjoyable hikes.
🧭 Navigation Skills
While marked, wilderness navigation is important. Consider a map and compass.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Femundsmarka's vast, unspoiled wilderness, perfect for canoeing, fishing, and hiking. The opportunity to see wildlife like reindeer is a major draw. However, be prepared for challenging conditions, particularly the prevalence of mosquitoes in summer and the need for waterproof gear.
"An amazing place, nice trails. Such an experience. It was very wet the we were there. So it's good to have a pair of waterproof shoes. Also don't forget musquitospray, otherwise you'll be eaten alive 😅"
Kasper Deraeve
"I did not visit it but was flying over it. It’s looked amazing and wish I could be there in person it look s vast and the mountains ⛰️ look gigantic mesmerising view"
Tanny Gill
"At Femundsmarka, Less than a days traveling off the Norwegian capital a region can be found, which has an abundance of nature to offer. Here - in the area of Engerdal - one of the big lakes of the country is situated. By the banks of Femund lake, and around in the woods of Gutulia and wild forests as well as in Femundsmarkas bare land up the timberline moose, lux and volverine can be met, with a good bit of luck even the hidden brown bear. Reindeer will cross your path and - along the many creeks, streams, and rivers - one might discover here and there a beaver. Femundsmarka National Park is one of the largest continuous, unspoilt wilderness regions in Southern Scandinavia. A great area for canoeing and fishing. The Norwegian Trekking Association has selected it as one of the three best hiking areas in Norway."
SUHAS Dubey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is typically via car to trailheads like Elgå or Røros, followed by hiking or canoeing. Public transport options are limited, so a car is often recommended for reaching the park's entry points.
Key entry points include Elgå on the Norwegian side and Tandsbyn or Tännäs on the Swedish side, offering access to different areas and activities.
While challenging, it's possible to reach nearby towns like Røros by public transport and then arrange local transport or begin longer treks into the park.
Femundsmarka is approximately a 5-6 hour drive from Oslo, making it a significant journey but achievable for a multi-day trip.
While many visitors opt for self-guided adventures, some local operators offer guided canoe or hiking tours, especially from Røros.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Femundsmarka National Park is free. There are no admission fees to enter the park itself.
The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, accessibility and conditions vary greatly with the seasons.
Wild camping is permitted in Norway, adhering to the 'Allemannsretten' (everyman's right), meaning no fees for basic wild camping. However, designated DNT cabins may have fees.
While wild camping is common, the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) operates some cabins within or near the park that can be booked in advance.
There isn't a central visitor center within the park itself, but information can often be found at local tourist offices in nearby towns like Røros or Engerdal.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park is renowned for canoeing, fishing, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Winter offers opportunities for skiing and dog sledding. +2
While vast, areas around established trails and lakes are manageable for beginners. However, venturing deep into the wilderness requires experience and preparation.
You might encounter reindeer, moose, wolverines, bears, and beavers. Birdwatching is also excellent. +2
Yes, there are marked trails, particularly in more accessible areas. The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) maintains many of these. +1
The terrain varies from dense forests and bogs to open mountain plateaus and numerous lakes and rivers.
🎫 🦟 Pests & Safety
Yes, especially during the summer months, mosquitoes can be very prevalent and bothersome. Strong repellent is highly recommended.
Be prepared for wilderness conditions. Inform someone of your plans, carry navigation tools, and be aware of wildlife. Weather can change rapidly.
While generally clean, it's always advisable to treat or filter water from natural sources to avoid potential contaminants.
Maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals. If you see a bear, make noise to alert it to your presence and back away slowly.
Mobile reception is very limited and often non-existent in large parts of the park. Do not rely on your phone for communication.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for mosquitoes – they can be a significant deterrent for younger children. Bringing plenty of child-friendly insect repellent and ensuring they wear long sleeves and pants during peak biting times is crucial. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when insect activity might be lower, though weather can be more unpredictable.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
When fishing, be sure to familiarize yourself with local regulations and obtain any necessary fishing permits. The pristine waters of the park contribute to a healthy fish population, making for a rewarding angling experience. Remember to practice catch-and-release where appropriate to help conserve the fish stocks.
🎒 Backpackers and Wilderness Enthusiasts
Backpackers should be well-prepared for remote conditions. This includes carrying sufficient food, water purification methods, navigation tools, and appropriate gear for all weather. Informing someone of your itinerary and expected return time is a critical safety measure. The park's vastness means you can find solitude even during peak season.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Canoeing and Packrafting in Femundsmarka
When planning a paddling trip, it's crucial to be aware of the water levels, especially in spring and autumn. The park's relatively flat terrain around the lakes makes portaging between waterways manageable for experienced paddlers. For those new to packrafting, starting with shorter, well-documented routes is advisable. Always carry appropriate safety gear, including a life vest, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Reddit discussions often highlight the serene experience of paddling through Femundsmarka, with users sharing tips on the best routes and fishing spots. The ability to combine paddling with fishing makes it a particularly attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a true wilderness escape.
Wildlife Watching and Photography
For the best wildlife viewing, early mornings and late evenings are often the most productive times. Patience is key, as animals are wild and their movements are unpredictable. When photographing wildlife, it's essential to maintain a safe and respectful distance to avoid disturbing them. Using a telephoto lens is recommended to capture clear shots without getting too close.
Many visitors share their exciting wildlife encounters on platforms like TikTok, showcasing the raw beauty of the park's inhabitants. Redditors often discuss the best locations and times for spotting specific animals, emphasizing the importance of quiet observation and respecting the natural environment.
Hiking and Trekking in Femundsmarka
Popular hiking routes often lead to scenic viewpoints or provide access to prime canoeing or fishing spots. For those planning longer treks, it's advisable to carry a map and compass, as mobile reception is unreliable. Wild camping is permitted, allowing hikers to immerse themselves fully in the wilderness experience.
Travelers on Reddit and social media frequently share their hiking experiences, highlighting the tranquility and unspoiled nature of Femundsmarka. Tips often revolve around packing essentials like waterproof gear and insect repellent, as well as advice on navigating the terrain and enjoying the solitude.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit