Øvre Dividal National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Troms og Finnmark, Norway

Øvre Dividal National Park

Øvre Dividal National Park protects one of Norway’s northernmost and wildest alpine areas, offering pristine wilderness ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing untouched Arctic nature.

National Park185,3204+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

185,320

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Øvre Dividal National Park

Øvre Dividal National Park protects one of Norway’s northernmost and wildest alpine areas, offering pristine wilderness ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing untouched Arctic nature.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Established in 1971, Øvre Dividal National Park covers 750 square kilometers of rugged alpine terrain in northern Norway's Troms og Finnmark region. The park is characterized by high plateaus, steep mountain ridges, deep valleys, and crystal-clear rivers and lakes formed by glacial and fluvial processes. Its name refers to the upper part of the Dividal Valley, a major natural feature that runs through the park, framing the landscape. Vegetation varies from dense birch forests in the lower elevations to sparse alpine tundra above the tree line. The area is home to key Arctic wildlife species including reindeer, Arctic foxes, wolverines, and a variety of bird species such as ptarmigans and golden eagles. The park is recognized for its fragile ecosystems and offers visitors a remote experience with few facilities, emphasizing wilderness recreation such as hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing. Trails traverse the wilderness areas with opportunities for multi-day treks, especially following river valleys and mountain ridges. Cultural history ties to Sami indigenous reindeer herding traditions remain visible in the landscape, adding a human dimension to the natural setting. Seasonal extremes, from midnight sun in summer to harsh winter conditions, shape the visitor experience. Øvre Dividal provides a rare chance to explore Arctic mountain wilderness with minimal human impact amid striking natural beauty.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Øvre Dividal National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Divi River Valley – a striking glacial valley running through the park✦ Rich wildlife viewing with opportunities to see Arctic foxes and wolverines✦ Extensive remote hiking routes with minimal infrastructure✦ Traditional Sami reindeer herding areas visible throughout the park
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Øvre Dividal National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Øvre Dividal National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Øvre Dividal National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Øvre Dividal National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Øvre Dividal National Park
Park Recreation

Cross-country Skiing

Available in Øvre Dividal National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Øvre Dividal National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Øvre Dividal National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees or passes required; access is free

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Øvre Dividal National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Wilderness & Developed Camping Regulations

Camping is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Øvre Dividal National Park. Most frontcountry campgrounds require advance reservations on Recreation.gov during peak season, while backcountry camping requires a wilderness permit and certified bear-resistant food canisters.

Find Campgrounds on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Øvre Dividal National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Kautokeino, Troms og Finnmark
⌖ 26.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kautokeino, Troms og Finnmark

Kautokeino is an Arctic town offering vast tundra landscapes and authentic Sami culture. Ideal for hiking, dog sledding, skiing, and paddling, it’s a true wilderness escape with year-round outdoor adventure.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Kilpisjärvi, Lapland, Finland
⌖ 34.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kilpisjärvi, Lapland, Finland

Kilpisjärvi is a quiet Arctic village in Lapland, perfect for hiking the iconic Saana Fell, paddling pristine lakes, and skiing snowy trails. Visitors come here for wilderness immersion, striking landscapes, and access to the unique Three-Country Cairn.

June to September for summer warmth and Midnight Sun, December to March for winter snow and Northern Lights
Explore Town
Kilpisjärvi, Lapland
⌖ 34.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kilpisjärvi, Lapland

Kilpisjärvi is a peaceful Arctic village in Finnish Lapland, ideal for hiking Saana Fell, paddling pristine lakes, skiing wide-open fells, and experiencing Sámi culture amid spectacular wilderness.

June to September for summer activities, December to April for winter sports
Explore Town
Olderdalen, Troms og Finnmark
⌖ 47.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Olderdalen, Troms og Finnmark

Olderdalen is a tranquil Arctic village in Troms og Finnmark, Norway, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and Northern Lights viewing. Surrounded by fjords and mountains, it offers a peaceful gateway to authentic Sami culture and pristine wilderness adventures.

Late Spring to Early Autumn for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and Northern Lights.
Explore Town
Sørkjosen, Troms og Finnmark, Norway
⌖ 49.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sørkjosen, Troms og Finnmark, Norway

Sørkjosen offers peaceful fjord scenery and rugged mountain adventures. Perfect for hiking, kayaking, and winter skiing, it’s a gateway to the Arctic’s stunning Lyngen Alps and dazzling Northern Lights.

Late Spring to Early Autumn for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and Northern Lights
Explore Town
Sørkjosen, Troms og Finnmark
⌖ 49.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sørkjosen, Troms og Finnmark

Sørkjosen is a quiet Arctic village perfect for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, fishing, paddling, and prime Northern Lights viewing in Troms og Finnmark. The surrounding fjords, mountains, and winter trails deliver authentic wilderness adventures year-round.

June to September for hiking and paddling; December to March for skiing and Northern Lights.
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Øvre Dividal National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.