The park's wildlife includes several iconic Norwegian species adapted to alpine conditions. Large mammals such as red deer, reindeer, and occasional visits from wolverines can be observed. The area is also home to various bird species, including the white-tailed eagle, golden eagle, and ptarmigan. In the park's waterways, Arctic char and brown trout are common. Small mammals like the Norwegian lemming and various vole species inhabit the alpine zones. The park's diverse ecosystems, from glacier-fed streams to alpine meadows, support a rich variety of invertebrates and insects adapted to extreme conditions.
Despite the harsh alpine environment, Folgefonna National Park hosts a diverse range of plant species adapted to cold conditions. The vegetation zones range from coastal flora near the fjords to alpine plants at higher elevations. Common species include mountain avens, purple saxifrage, and various mosses and lichens that thrive in the arctic-alpine climate. The park's lower slopes feature birch forests, while areas below the tree line support hardy shrubs like dwarf birch and crowberry. Several rare and endangered plant species find refuge in the park's protected environment, particularly in areas recently exposed by glacial retreat.
The park's geology is dominated by the Folgefonna glacier, which is actually comprised of three separate ice caps: Northern, Middle, and Southern Folgefonna. The bedrock consists primarily of Precambrian basement rocks, including gneiss and granite, formed over a billion years ago. Glacial activity has carved dramatic U-shaped valleys, cirques, and fjords, creating the distinctive landscape visible today. The glacier itself covers approximately 214 square kilometers and is Norway's third-largest glacier. Glacial erosion has exposed various rock formations and created numerous moraines, providing clear evidence of historical glacial movements and climate changes.
Folgefonna National Park was established in 2005, but the area's human history dates back thousands of years. The glacier and surrounding landscapes have played a crucial role in local culture and commerce, with historical records showing that people used the glacier as a transport route between fjords since the Viking Age. Traditional farming and grazing practices have shaped the cultural landscape for centuries. The glacier has also been significant for early tourism in Norway, with glacier walks being offered since the late 1800s. Local communities have long utilized the glacier's ice for various purposes, and the area has been an important site for scientific research on climate change and glacial processes.
Key attractions include the massive Folgefonna glacier itself, offering opportunities for guided glacier walks, skiing, and ice climbing. The park features spectacular waterfalls, including the famous Låtefossen and Buarbreen glacier arm, which is one of the most accessible glacier arms in Norway. The Bondhusdalen valley offers stunning views and hiking opportunities, while the Gjerde viewpoint provides panoramic vistas of the glacier and surrounding landscape. The park also contains numerous cultural heritage sites, including ancient travel routes and summer farming stations. Modern facilities include marked hiking trails, visitor centers, and accommodation options ranging from basic mountain huts to more comfortable lodges in nearby communities.
Folgefonna National Park experiences a maritime climate characterized by high precipitation and relatively mild temperatures for its latitude. The area receives significant snowfall, particularly at higher elevations, with annual precipitation often exceeding 3,000mm. Winters are cold with temperatures frequently below freezing, while summers are mild with averages around 12-15°C (54-59°F). The glacier creates its own microclimate, affecting local weather patterns and contributing to year-round cool conditions near the ice. Weather can change rapidly, and visitors should be prepared for sudden shifts in conditions, including fog and strong winds, even during summer months.
Norway
60.0670°, 6.4000°
2005
545
Folgefonna National Park is centered around Norway's third-largest glacier, Folgefonna. The park features dramatic landscapes ranging from glacier to fjord. It offers unique opportunities for glacier hiking and skiing, even in summer months.