Top 20 Natural Monuments in Hedmark

Among the most popular natural monuments in Hedmark are the Suspension Bridge at Atnsjømyrene Nature Reserve, which serves as a gateway to Rondane National Park, and the ancient Tokstadfurua Pine, over 500 years old. Visitors also highly appreciate the View of Rondane National Park from Strømbu Platform, offering clear vistas of the mountainous region.

Yes, Hedmark offers several natural monuments suitable for families. The Tokstadfurua Pine is a fascinating stop with a small hut for viewing the ancient tree. The View of Rondane National Park from Strømbu Platform provides easy access to stunning mountain views, complete with parking and facilities, making it ideal for all ages.

Hedmark is home to impressive geological formations. The Jutulhogget Canyon is one of Northern Europe's largest, a 2.4-kilometer-long and 200-meter-deep dry canyon carved by a glacial outburst flood. Additionally, the Myldingi Nature Reserve features unique Quaternary geological forms, shaped by ancient ice ages.

Hedmark's natural monuments are often within or near protected areas rich in wildlife. Rondane National Park is a crucial habitat for wild reindeer. Femundsmarka National Park is known for a small herd of musk ox, otters, and beavers. Gutulia National Park, though small, is home to brown bears, wolves, wolverines, and lynx, along with numerous bird species. Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park also hosts wild musk ox and indigenous wild mountain reindeer.

For those seeking a challenge, Hedmark offers several demanding natural monuments. The Støre Ramshøgda Summit (1,463 m) and Elgåhogna provide challenging ascents with rewarding views. The Jutulhogget Canyon also offers a challenging experience due to its dramatic terrain.

The natural monuments in Hedmark are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, from easy to challenging, including trails in Rondane and Femundsmarka National Parks. For specific hiking routes, explore our guide to Easy hikes in Hedmark or Mountain Hikes in Hedmark. Femundsmarka is also popular for canoeing and fishing.

Yes, Hedmark is renowned for its ancient forests. Gutulia National Park is famous for its untouched primeval forests with giant, hundreds-year-old pines and spruces. Femundsmarka National Park also features extensive old-growth pine forests, where trees are left to die naturally, creating unique silver-grey 'natural monuments' that support diverse ecosystems. Don't miss the over 500-year-old Tokstadfurua Pine.

The best time to visit Hedmark's natural monuments largely depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for hiking, canoeing, and enjoying the lush landscapes. For winter activities like skiing, the colder months (December to March) are suitable, especially in areas like Rondane National Park. Spring and autumn offer beautiful colors and fewer crowds, though some higher-altitude areas might have snow or unpredictable weather.

Absolutely. The View of Rondane National Park from Strømbu Platform offers a clear, expansive view of the park's mountainous region. Other viewpoints include Skurufjellet Summit (1044 m), known for its super panoramic views, and the dramatic Jutulhogget Canyon, which provides impressive vistas into its depths.

Beyond their natural beauty, some areas offer historical insights. Femundsmarka National Park contains ancient trapping pits and traces of 18th-century mining. Gutulia National Park preserves three old seasonal livestock farms, Gutulisetra, which operated for over 200 years and are now protected cultural monuments, offering a glimpse into traditional Norwegian farming life.

Yes, within Femundsmarka National Park, you can find the Sweden–Norway Border Crossing. This allows for unique cross-border hiking experiences within this vast wilderness area, which borders Sweden.

The Grimsdalen Landscape Conservation Area is a natural monument known for its scenic beauty, featuring a river and gorge, and offering trails for cycling and hiking. It provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and is appreciated for its natural landscapes.