Overview
Rondane National Park, established in 1962, was the first national park in Norway. It is a high plateau with ten peaks above 2,000 m, including Rondslottet at 2,178 m, set in a landscape of rounded ridges, open heath and small lakes. It is home to one of the last wild reindeer herds in Europe, and musk oxen live in the nearby Dovrefjell area.
The park has a network of marked paths and staffed huts, including Rondvassbu and Dørålseter, and day hikes include the ascent of Storronden or Vinjeronden. The Rondane Scenic Road, Rondane National Tourist Route, crosses the area and passes viewpoints, with the Rondane Hytter and cottages providing places to stay.
Highlights
- The Rondane peaks and wide plateau views
- Hut-to-hut routes such as Rondvassbu to Peer Gynt hut
- Wild reindeer, seen at a distance
- The Rondane National Tourist Route
Best time to visit
Late June to September is the main hiking season, with the huts open and snow gone from most paths. September has autumn colour on the heath. Winter is cold, with ski touring and cross-country skiing.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Good
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Not ideal
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Oslo (OSL), then drive about 3.5 hours or take a train to Otta or Fåvang and a bus. The area has several entry points, including Mysuseter, Spranget and Rondvassbu. Check bus services and hut opening dates before you go.
What to expect
Moderate. Paths are well marked but can be rocky and exposed. Weather changes quickly, and fog can reduce visibility. Navigation skills help on the high plateau.
Practical tips
- Book huts early for July and August.
- Carry a map and compass, as the plateau can be foggy.
- Take warm layers and waterproofs even in summer.
- Keep a distance from reindeer, and follow park rules.
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Rondane?
It was the first national park in Norway and has high plateaus and wild reindeer.
How high is Rondslottet?
About 2,178 m.
Can I stay in huts?
Yes. Rondvassbu is a staffed hut, and there are others. Book in advance in summer.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Jadize44 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
