The park hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including large mammals such as brown bears, wolverines, and moose. The area is particularly important for reindeer, both wild and semi-domesticated herds managed by Sámi herders. Bird life is rich during the summer months, with species like rough-legged buzzards, golden eagles, and various waterfowl. The rivers support populations of Arctic char and grayling.
The vegetation in Øvre Anárjohka is dominated by boreal forest, primarily consisting of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and birch trees. The understory features a rich variety of lichens, mosses, and berry-producing plants such as lingonberry and cloudberry. The park's wetlands support unique plant communities adapted to the harsh subarctic conditions, including various sedges and cotton grass species.
The park's landscape was shaped by the last ice age, featuring gently rolling hills and vast plateaus characteristic of the Finnmark region. The bedrock consists primarily of ancient granite and gneiss formations, with scattered areas of quartzite. The Anárjohka River has carved valleys through the terrain, creating a diverse topographical landscape that includes both wetlands and higher elevation areas.
The park, established in 1976, encompasses traditional Sámi reindeer herding territories that have been used for centuries. The name Anárjohka comes from the Sámi language, referring to the river that forms the border between Norway and Finland. This region has historically been significant for the Sámi people's cultural practices and livelihood, with evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years.
Øvre Anárjohka's most distinctive feature is its vast, untouched wilderness, representing one of Scandinavia's largest continuous pine forests. The Anárjohka River system forms a natural border with Finland's Lemmenjoki National Park, creating an extensive protected area. The park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and experiencing traditional Sámi culture, though facilities are minimal to preserve its wilderness character.
Øvre Anárjohka experiences a subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. The park typically sees snow cover from October through May, with winter temperatures often dropping below -30°C (-22°F). Summer temperatures generally range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), with the midnight sun visible from late May to mid-July. The area receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with slightly higher rainfall during summer months.
Norway
69.1500°, 25.3330°
1975
1390
Øvre Anárjohka National Park is located in the northernmost part of Norway, bordering Finland. The park protects one of Scandinavia's largest continuous pine forests and pristine wilderness areas. It's an important habitat for brown bears, wolverines, and the indigenous Sami people's reindeer herding.