The best walks and hikes around Dovre

Dovre offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from mountain birch forests at lower elevations to barren, high-mountain plateaus. You'll find trails leading to impressive peaks like Snøhetta, scenic river valleys, and wide-open mountain plateaus. There are over 80 routes available, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, Dovre has several easy and family-friendly trails. For instance, the Viewpoint Snøhetta Trail is an easy 3.6 km path offering views of the iconic Snøhetta peak. Another accessible option is the Hiking at Fokstumyra Nature Reserve, a 7.1 km trail through a protected area, suitable for a relaxed outing. Overall, there are 23 easy routes to choose from.

Dovre is renowned for its wildlife, especially musk oxen and wild reindeer. The region is one of the best places in Norway to spot these animals in their natural habitat. You might also encounter Arctic foxes and eagles. The "Dovrefjell Musk Ox Trail" is a dedicated network of trails designed for wildlife observation, with varying lengths. For a high chance of seeing musk oxen, consider the area around the Kongsvold - Reinheim hut-to-hut route.

Dovre is home to several impressive natural landmarks. The most prominent is Snøhetta, one of Norway's highest mountains outside of Jotunheimen. You can reach its summit via the Summit hike to Snøhetta from Snøheim tourist hut. Other significant peaks include Snøhetta, Stortoppen, Mehøe Summit, and Formokampen. For panoramic views, the Geitberget Summit Tower is a great option.

Yes, you can find circular routes in Dovre. An example is the Snøhetta Viewpoint – View of Dovrefjell Plateau loop from Hjerkinn, a moderate 8.3 km loop that offers stunning views of the Dovrefjell Plateau.

The best time for hiking in Dovre is typically during the summer months, from late June to early September, when the trails are clear of snow and the weather is generally milder. This period offers the most accessible conditions for exploring the high-mountain plateaus and peaks. During winter, the region is popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) maintains an extensive network of cabins and lodges throughout the Dovre region, making multi-day treks accessible. These huts, such as DNT Rondvassbu, provide accommodation for hikers. Routes like the journey from Kongsvold to Reinheim and onward to Snøhetta or Åmotdalshytta are popular hut-to-hut experiences.

The Dovre region is quite accessible, situated along the E6 highway, which makes it easy to reach by car. For public transport, train services run through the area, with stations like Dombås providing access points to the national park and surrounding hiking areas. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to specific trailheads.

The hiking routes in Dovre are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's unique landscapes, the opportunity to spot wildlife like musk oxen, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various difficulty levels.

When hiking with dogs in Dovre, especially within Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park, it's crucial to keep them on a leash. This is particularly important due to the presence of wild reindeer and musk oxen, which can be sensitive to disturbances. Always follow local regulations and ensure your dog does not disturb wildlife or other hikers.

Yes, Dovre offers challenging routes for experienced trekkers. The Summit hike to Snøhetta from Snøheim tourist hut is a moderate to difficult 11.4 km path with significant elevation gain, leading to one of Norway's highest peaks. There are 10 difficult routes in total, providing demanding experiences for those seeking a greater challenge.