Breheimen

The park hosts a rich variety of wildlife typical of Norwegian mountain ecosystems. Large mammals include wild reindeer, red deer, and occasional visits from wolverines and lynx. The area is also home to numerous bird species, including the golden eagle, rough-legged buzzard, and ptarmigan. The park's waters support healthy populations of Arctic char and brown trout, while various small mammals like lemmings and voles form an important part of the ecosystem.

Breheimen's varied elevation zones support diverse plant life, from lush valley floors to hardy alpine vegetation. Lower elevations feature birch and pine forests, while higher areas display typical alpine and arctic plants adapted to harsh conditions. Notable species include mountain avens, purple saxifrage, and various lichens and mosses. The park's vegetation patterns clearly demonstrate the transition from subalpine to alpine zones, with tree lines occurring at approximately 1,000 meters above sea level.

The park's landscape was primarily shaped by the last ice age, featuring dramatic U-shaped valleys, cirques, and numerous glaciers including Jostedalsbreen, mainland Europe's largest glacier. The bedrock consists mainly of gneiss and schist, with some areas of phyllite creating fertile soil conditions. The ongoing glacial activity continues to shape the terrain, creating moraines, glacial lakes, and characteristic alpine topography. The area also features numerous waterfalls and rapid streams carved through the rocky terrain.

Breheimen experiences a typical mountain climate with significant variations between seasons. Summers are mild and relatively short (June-August) with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C, while winters are long and cold with temperatures often dropping below -10°C. Heavy snowfall is common from October through May, making winter activities popular but requiring proper preparation. Weather can change rapidly at higher elevations, and visitors should always be prepared for sudden shifts in conditions, including rain and fog even in summer months.

Breheimen, meaning 'Home of the Glaciers,' has been shaped by both natural forces and human activity over thousands of years. The area has a rich cultural heritage dating back to the Viking Age, with evidence of ancient farming practices and summer dairy farming (seter) traditions. Local communities have utilized the mountain resources for hunting, fishing, and grazing livestock since medieval times. The region was designated as a national park in 2009 to protect its unique landscape and cultural heritage.

Breheimen's most striking features include its extensive glacier systems, deep valleys, and dramatic peaks. The park contains over 50 glaciers, with Jostedalsbreen being the most prominent. The landscape is dotted with crystal-clear lakes, powerful waterfalls, and historic mountain farms (seters). Popular hiking destinations include the Mørkridsdalen valley and the Dumdalen valley, offering visitors opportunities to experience both natural wonders and cultural landmarks. The park's extensive network of marked trails caters to various skill levels.