Welcome to Lierne and Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Parks
Are you visiting Norway this summer and planning a trip to Lierne, Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella National Parks or the surrounding mountain areas? On this page we’ve gathered helpful information for international guests: how to plan hikes, what to expect in the wilderness, and how to visit the new exhibition at the National Park Visitor Centre in Lierne. This page will answer many of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) we receive from international guests.
The Visitor Centre
The National Park Visitor Centre in Lierne is located in the village of Sandvika, in Lierne municipality. It is free and open to all, with an interactive exhibition about Norwegian protected areas, wildlife and the wilderness areas of Central Norway.
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Opening hours: Weekdays (Monday–Friday), 09:00–15:00
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Admission: Free
- Language: The exhibition is currently only in Norwegian, but we provide QR codes that link to English translations. You can also use Google Lens on your phone for live translation as you walk through the displays.
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The visitor centre is unmanned, but if you have more questions, feel free to contact us via email: post@naturporten.no or via Messenger. We will do our best to help!
Lierne Geology Park
Right outside the Visitor Centre, you’ll find Lierne Geology Park – an outdoor exhibition about the rocks and geological history of the mountain region. It’s open year-round, free to use, and a great stop for families. Try gold panning, light a fire, or explore the rocks that form the foundation of this wild landscape. (Learn more)
Hiking in Norwegian National Parks
Norwegian national parks are very different from those in North America or central Europe. There are few trails, little infrastructure, and almost no signage. This is part of their charm – they are wild, quiet and remote. This means no ticket booths, fences, shuttle buses or crowds – only open landscapes and solitude. But it also means that you must be well prepared, with good gear, navigational skills and outdoor experience.
Some key tips:
- There are many wetlands and bogs, so waterproof boots are highly recommended.
- You can normally drink running water straight from rivers and streams in the mountains. (Learn more)
- Always bring a map, compass, and/or GPS – and know how to use them.
- Phone reception is limited in the parks.
Trail planning
- UT.no for hiking trails, cabins and outdoor tips in all of Norway.
- Norgeskart.no for detailed topographical hiking maps (free to download and print).
Weather and safety
Mountain weather changes quickly. Even in July, it can snow or sleet in higher elevations. Always check the forecast before setting out.
Access Points and Parking
There are several entry points (“innfallsporter”) to Blåfjella–Skjækerfjella and Lierne National Parks. At most of these locations, you’ll find:
- Parking areas (a small fee may apply; usually with space for camper vans)
- New information boards with maps and practical advice about the park
- Short marked trails leading to the park border and a National Park monument stone (“Nasjonalparkbauta”)
- Characteristic slate stone tables — perfect for a rest or lunch break
- Dry toilets (free to use)
At two of the entry points, you’ll also find a gamme — a simple, traditional shelter — as well as fire pits (free to use, but bring your own firewood).
You’ll find an overview of the different access points on our website: National Park Locations
And video presentations of each area here: YouTube Access Point Playlist
YouTube videos of the trailheads:
What About Bears?
Yes – Lierne is home to one of the largest bear populations in Norway. But don’t worry! These are European brown bears, not grizzlies or black bears like in North America. They are extremely shy and avoid people whenever possible.
- It is safe to hike here.
- You don’t need bear spray, bear bells, or special containers. In fact, bear spray is not legal to carry in Norway.
- There is no need to hang your food or carry firearms.
- Seeing a bear is rare and considered a great privilege – if it happens, it’s usually from a long distance or from a car.
- Keep your food in your backpack and avoid leaving any litter.
Come by the Visitor Centre in Lierne to get our free Bear safety brochure.
Bear Watching and Photography
We sometimes get visitors asking about “bear safaris” or guided wildlife tours. While we don’t offer this at the Visitor Centre, (our programmes are primarily for Norwegian school groups during the academic year), there are private operators in the area who may offer wildlife experiences or photography tours:
Dogs and leash laws
From 1 April to 20 August, all dogs must be kept on a leash in Norway. This protects wildlife during the sensitive nesting and birthing season — especially ground-nesting birds and reindeer calves — and helps prevent dogs from chasing or injuring domestic reindeer, livestock, or wild animals. In some areas, leash laws may apply year-round, particularly where livestock are present. (Learn more: Travelling with dogs in Norway)
Fishing and cabins
To fish in rivers and lakes, you’ll need a local fishing permit. These are available through:
- inatur.no (Go to “Search in map” and sort for “Innlandsfiske” and “Laksefiske”)
- The Sørli or Nordli fishing areas (“Sørlikortet“, “Nordlikortet“) – local licenses sold at local stores in Lierne or at inatur.no
For mountain cabins, check:
What Makes Norwegian National Parks Special?
Norwegian national parks are not like other “Parks” – here, the goal is to preserve untouched nature, not build tourism infrastructure. That means:
- Few marked trails
- No facilities deep in the parks
- No entry fees
- You are welcome to explore – but you are also responsible for your own safety and leave-no-trace practices
The best part? You might go a whole day without seeing another person.
We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and understand what to expect. If you have any questions or need help with your plans, don’t hesitate to reach out. We wish you a wonderful summer in Norway!
Warm regards,
National Park Visitor Centre Lierne