Lierne National Park

Lierne Overview

Lierne National Park, or Lierne nasjonalpark in Norwegian, is a stunning and remote protected area in Trøndelag County, central Norway. Covering approximately 333 square miles (861 square kilometers), the park is known for its rugged wilderness, vast forests, and a network of lakes and rivers that define its character.

Situated near the Swedish border, Lierne is a part of Norway’s extensive system of national parks, dedicated to preserving the country’s natural heritage and biodiversity. The park’s remote location and pristine nature make it a haven for wildlife and a paradise for those seeking solitude and unspoiled landscapes.

The terrain of Lierne National Park is diverse, consisting of rolling hills, dense pine and birch forests, wetlands, and alpine plateaus. The park is punctuated by dramatic rock formations, steep cliffs, and expansive river valleys that offer breathtaking views.

Numerous lakes, including the scenic Lenglingen and Holden, add to the park’s beauty, providing excellent habitats for aquatic life and a serene setting for visitors. The park’s higher elevations feature tundra-like conditions, with sparse vegetation and a rugged landscape that contrasts with the lush lowlands. The area is shaped by glacial activity, which has left behind large boulders, deep ravines, and unique landforms that contribute to the park’s wild appearance.

Lierne National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, making it one of the best places in Norway for spotting large mammals. The park supports a significant population of brown bears, which are among the most elusive yet iconic animals in the region.

Other large carnivores, such as wolverines and lynxes, also roam the forests and mountainous areas. Moose are commonly seen in the lower elevations, grazing in wetlands and along riverbanks, while reindeer inhabit the higher plateaus.

The park is also home to red foxes, otters, and beavers, which thrive in the many waterways. Birdwatchers will find Lierne particularly rewarding, as it hosts species such as golden eagles, rough-legged buzzards, and various owls. Wetland areas attract cranes, ducks, and waders, creating a rich avian diversity that adds to the park’s ecological significance.

One of the most popular features of Lierne National Park is its vast and untouched nature, which appeals to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a remote and authentic wilderness experience. Visitors can explore the park through an extensive network of hiking trails that traverse forests, ascend mountains, and pass by pristine lakes.

The park is a favored destination for fishing, with its numerous lakes and rivers offering excellent opportunities to catch trout and Arctic char. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities, allowing visitors to experience the tranquility of the park’s waterways up close.

During winter, Lierne transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiers and snowshoers who seek adventure in the unspoiled landscape. Wildlife tracking is another engaging activity, with guided tours available for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the park’s elusive predators.

Conservation efforts in Lierne National Park focus on maintaining the delicate balance between human activities and the preservation of its unique ecosystems. While the park provides vital habitats for endangered species, it also faces challenges such as climate change, which affects snowfall patterns and vegetation growth. Human-wildlife conflicts, particularly concerning large carnivores like bears and wolverines, require careful management to ensure coexistence with local communities.

However, successful conservation policies, including habitat protection and sustainable tourism initiatives, have helped maintain the park’s ecological integrity. Ongoing research and monitoring efforts contribute to a deeper understanding of the park’s biodiversity, ensuring that Lierne remains a thriving natural sanctuary for generations to come.

Park Map

Lierne National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Lierne National Park, located in central Norway, is a remote and rugged wilderness characterized by dense forests, vast wetlands, and towering mountains. This pristine landscape is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. Here are some of the more popular species that can be found in the park:

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
One of the most iconic predators in Lierne National Park, the brown bear roams the deep forests and mountainous terrain in search of food. These solitary animals are elusive but are occasionally spotted in the park’s vast wilderness.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
This elusive and powerful predator is one of the top carnivores in Lierne. The Eurasian lynx is known for its keen hunting skills and distinctive tufted ears. It primarily preys on roe deer and hares, making it an important part of the park’s ecosystem.

Wolverine (Gulo gulo)
A rare but fascinating resident, the wolverine is a formidable carnivore known for its strength and endurance. Though difficult to spot, these elusive creatures are well-adapted to the harsh conditions of Lierne’s mountainous regions.

Moose (Alces alces)
The largest land mammal in Norway, the moose is a common sight in Lierne’s forests and wetlands. These massive herbivores are often seen grazing near lakes and rivers, making them a favorite among wildlife watchers.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
A cunning and adaptable predator, the red fox is frequently seen throughout Lierne National Park. Its thick coat provides insulation against the cold, and it preys on small mammals, birds, and insects.

Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra)
Often found near rivers and lakes, the Eurasian otter thrives in the park’s freshwater ecosystems. These playful and agile mammals are excellent swimmers, feeding mainly on fish and amphibians.

Arctic Hare (Lepus timidus)
This species is well-adapted to Norway’s harsh winters, with a coat that turns white in winter for camouflage against the snow. Arctic hares are an important food source for predators such as lynxes and foxes.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
A graceful and widespread deer species, the roe deer is a common sight in the park’s forests and meadows. These agile herbivores are most active at dawn and dusk.

European Beaver (Castor fiber)
These industrious rodents play a crucial role in maintaining the park’s wetland ecosystems. Their dam-building activities create important habitats for other species.

Muskox (Ovibos moschatus)
Although rare in the area, muskoxen are occasionally seen in the rugged mountainous regions of Lierne. These prehistoric-looking animals are well-adapted to extreme cold, with thick fur that protects them from harsh winters.

Birds

Lierne National Park is also home to a diverse array of bird species, making it an exceptional destination for birdwatchers. The park’s lakes, forests, and wetlands provide critical habitats for many birds, from majestic birds of prey to elusive waterfowl.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
One of Norway’s most impressive birds of prey, the golden eagle soars high above the park’s mountains and forests. These powerful raptors hunt small mammals and birds, often using their keen eyesight to locate prey from great distances.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
The largest owl species in Europe, the Eurasian eagle-owl is a nocturnal hunter that thrives in Lierne’s dense forests. It preys on small mammals and birds, using its silent flight to ambush unsuspecting prey.

Black-throated Loon (Gavia arctica)
Found in the park’s lakes and rivers, the black-throated loon is known for its haunting calls and striking plumage. These excellent divers catch fish underwater and are a highlight for birdwatchers.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
This large and distinctive grouse is a highlight of Lierne’s boreal forests. Males perform elaborate courtship displays during the breeding season, making them an exciting sight for visitors.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A skilled and agile hunter, the northern goshawk is a powerful bird of prey that thrives in Lierne’s forests. It preys on medium-sized birds and mammals, often ambushing its prey with swift precision.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
These elegant swans are often seen on the park’s lakes and wetlands. Known for their distinctive calls, whooper swans migrate seasonally and are a stunning sight against Lierne’s natural backdrop.

Common Crane (Grus grus)
A symbol of wild landscapes, the common crane breeds in Lierne’s marshlands. These tall, graceful birds perform spectacular courtship dances and are known for their loud, trumpeting calls.

Rough-legged Buzzard (Buteo lagopus)
This Arctic-breeding raptor migrates south to Lierne in winter. It is easily identified by its feathered legs and distinctive hovering flight when hunting for small mammals.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
One of Europe’s largest birds of prey, the white-tailed eagle is frequently seen near Lierne’s lakes and rivers. With its massive wingspan, it is an awe-inspiring sight in the park’s wilderness.

Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus)
A classic bird of Norway’s tundra and boreal forests, the willow ptarmigan changes its plumage seasonally, turning white in winter for camouflage. It is a common prey species for many of the park’s predators.

Lierne National Park offers a remarkable blend of mammals and birdlife, making it a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts seeking to experience Norway’s unspoiled nature.