The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella

Our guide features over 50 family-friendly hiking trails in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella, with 20 of these being easy routes perfect for families with younger children or those seeking a relaxed outing. The remaining 35 are moderate, offering a bit more challenge for active families.

Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella offers a stunning array of natural features. You can encounter dramatic Arctic-like landscapes, rushing watercourses, and serene mountain lakes. Keep an eye out for highlights such as the Plateau above Drivdalen or enjoy a tranquil Lake and river view. The region is known for its diverse terrain, from mountain birch forests to barren mountain landscapes.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For an easy, shorter option, consider the Krautbach Crossings loop from Grønbakken, which is just over 2 km. For a slightly longer, easy walk, the View of the Driva River – Bridge Over the Strobla River loop from Grønbakken offers a pleasant 5 km experience.

The best time for family hiking in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella is generally during the summer months, from late June to early September. During this period, the snow has largely melted from lower elevations, trails are more accessible, and the weather is milder. This also coincides with the period when the impressive Mardalsfossen waterfall flows freely (June 20 to August 20) in the nearby Åmotan-Grøvudalen Landscape Protection Area.

Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella is famous for its unique wildlife. While hiking, you have a chance to spot musk oxen, especially in areas like Stroplsjødalen and Kaldvelldalen, though it's crucial to maintain a safe distance. The park is also home to Norway's only remaining herd of wild mountain reindeer. For a dedicated wildlife experience, consider visiting the Wild Musk Oxen in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park highlight.

Absolutely! For families with very young children or those looking for a quick stroll, there are several easy and short options. The Krautbach Crossings loop from Grønbakken is a gentle 2.3 km route, and the View of the Driva River – Høghaugan loop from Grønbakken is another easy 2.3 km option, both taking less than an hour to complete.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1200 ratings. Hikers often praise the stunning Arctic-like landscapes, the chance to spot unique wildlife like musk oxen, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to various fitness levels, making it accessible for families.

Yes, there are several notable viewpoints and landmarks. While the summit of Snøhetta is a more challenging hike, you can still enjoy panoramic views of the mountain from the View of the Mountains in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park. The Driva River and its canyon, Blæsterbekken, are also significant natural features. For a moderate hike that includes a canyon view, try the Blæsterbekken Canyon – View of the Driva River loop from Grønbakken.

Yes, Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park is well-connected by public transport. The E6 motorway and the Dovre Railway both pass through the region, making it relatively easy to reach starting points for many trails. Specific bus stops or train stations can provide access to different areas of the park, allowing for car-free exploration.

Parking is generally available at the trailheads or designated starting points for many routes. For example, several of the routes mentioned in this guide, such as those starting from Grønbakken, typically have nearby parking facilities. It's always advisable to check specific route descriptions for detailed parking information before you set out.

For families looking for a longer and more active day out, there are several moderate options. The Blæsterbekken Canyon – View of the Driva River loop from Grønbakken is a rewarding 9.9 km route that takes around 2 hours 50 minutes. Another excellent choice is the Høgsnyta – Kongsvold Fjeldstue loop from Kongsvoll, which covers 9.3 km and offers beautiful mountain scenery.