Plizio Visual Lab

Gutulia

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Forest

Weather…

Gutulia National Park is one of Norway's smallest and oldest national parks, situated in the eastern part of Innlandet county. Established in 1968, the park encompasses just 23 square kilometers but holds immense ecological significance due to its untouched old-growth forests. The landscape is dominated by massive, centuries-old pine and spruce trees, with some specimens estimated to be over 400 years old. Geologically, the area is characterized by glacial moraines and gentle hills formed during the retreat of the last ice age. Wildlife in the park is representative of the boreal forest, including brown bears, moose, and various woodpecker species that depend on the abundant standing deadwood. A centerpiece of the park is Gutulisetra, a historical mountain farmstead with buildings dating back to the 1750s, which is now a protected cultural site. This farm illustrates the traditional seasonal grazing practices that coexisted with the forest for centuries. Today, Gutulia serves as a living laboratory for studying primeval forests and is favored for quiet, low-impact hiking and educational visits. Park management focuses on the total preservation of forest biodiversity and the exclusion of all commercial logging.

Location: Norway
Top sights: Gutulivola · Baklivola
Nearby: Trysil (79 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	-10	-9	-6	-2	5	10	12	11	7	0	-5	-8
Rain mm	59	45	47	53	98	109	143	139	91	81	68	58

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access to this pristine coniferous forest is usually via unpaved gravel roads branching off from the main route. A dedicated parking area at the edge of the woods typically serves as the optimal starting point.

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Best season

The period from June to September generally has the most pleasant temperatures for extended hikes in the dense forest. In late autumn, moisture and cold often transform the trails into difficult terrain.

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Terrain & paths

The forest paths are often characterized by soft moss, lichens, and a dense network of ancient tree roots. Although major climbs are absent, the sometimes slippery and uneven surface always requires careful attention.

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What to bring

Ankle-high, water-resistant shoes are the best choice for crossing muddy patches with dry feet. Long-sleeved shirts protect not only against accidental scratches but also against the typical summer mosquitoes.

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Parking

For visitors, a small, natural-looking parking area is usually available just outside the national park boundaries. It is advisable to arrive early in the day to easily secure one of the limited parking spots.

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Safety

Orientation off the marked paths is often extremely difficult in this dense, uniformly ancient forest. Visitors should always carry a physical map, as GPS signals can easily drop out beneath the thick forest canopy.

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Time needed

To fully appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the centuries-old trees, visitors typically spend two to three hours here. Shorter walks just for quick sightseeing can often be completed in under an hour.