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Breheimen National Park
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Breheimen National Park was established in 2009 and covers 1,671 square kilometers across the Innlandet and Vestland counties. The name Breheimen translates to 'Home of the Glaciers,' reflecting a dominant landscape of massive ice fields and rugged peaks. The area encompasses some of Norway's wettest regions in the west and drier mountain valleys in the east, resulting in immense ecological diversity. Historically, the region served as a crucial corridor for trade and reindeer hunting, with archaeological finds like ancient arrowheads confirming human use since the Stone Age. The park protects vital habitats for wild reindeer and hosts rare mountain flora that thrives within its varied rock formations. Today, Breheimen is a challenging destination for mountaineers, as many routes involve crossing glacial crevasses, requiring specialized equipment and significant experience.
- Location: Norway
- Nearby: Jostedalen (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -9 | -9 | -7 | -3 | 1 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 5 | -1 | -6 | -8 |
| Rain mm | 173 | 128 | 130 | 105 | 107 | 121 | 148 | 160 | 174 | 160 | 170 | 184 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The national park is generally entered from peripheral valleys where marked trails often begin. Several mountain roads and nearby lodges act as typical starting points for wilderness treks.
Best season
Midsummer into early autumn is generally the safest and most accessible period for hikers. Winter effectively closes large portions of the park to all but highly experienced ski mountaineers.
Terrain & paths
Hikers face a challenging mix of steep U-shaped valleys, expansive barren plateaus, and large glacier systems. The terrain is often rocky, uneven, and significantly more demanding than adjacent parks.
What to bring
Robust outdoor clothing suitable for sudden temperature drops and continuous rain is completely indispensable. Trekking poles can greatly assist with river crossings and steep descents.
Parking
Designated parking is frequently located at the gateways to the main valleys leading into the protected area. Expect these remote areas to have very minimal facilities available to visitors.
Safety
Unbridged glacial rivers pose a major hazard and may become completely impassable after heavy rain or intense snowmelt. Check with local wardens regarding current river and glacier conditions.
Time needed
Exploring the park deeply generally necessitates hikes lasting several days. Even reaching the prominent viewpoints from the outer parking zones will normally take a full, demanding day of walking.
Geography
Facts
- The national park was established in August 2009.
- The total area is approximately 1,671 square kilometers.
- Includes sections of the Jostedalsbreen glacier system.
- Home to one of Norway's largest wild reindeer herds.
- Archaeological finds confirm reindeer hunting 6,000 years ago.
- The highest point is the peak of Heksetindene.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Breheimen National Park (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Breheimen mean?
The name translates to 'Home of the Glaciers'.
Is hiking difficult there?
Yes, the terrain is very varied and often lacks marked trails.
Where is the park located?
In Innlandet and Vestland counties, west of Jotunheimen.
Are there staffed cabins?
Yes, the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) operates several cabins there.
Can you cross the glaciers?
Only with proper rope equipment and experience or a mountain guide.
Breheimen National Park: where is it located?
Breheimen National Park is located in Norway.
Breheimen National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Breheimen National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Breheimen National Park was established in 2009 and covers 1,671 square kilometers across the Innlandet and Vestland counties.
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