Moysalen National Park

Moysalen Overview

Møysalen National Park, known locally as Møysalen Nasjonalpark, is a protected wilderness area located in Nordland County, Norway. The park covers an area of approximately 73 square miles (188 square kilometers) and is situated on Hinnøya and Austvågøya, two islands in the Vesterålen archipelago.

Established in 2003, Møysalen National Park is named after its most striking feature, Møysalen Mountain, which rises to an elevation of 4,124 feet (1,257 meters) and is the highest peak in Vesterålen. The park is recognized for its rugged coastal terrain, dramatic fjords, lush valleys, and pristine alpine landscapes, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The park’s landscape is a striking blend of steep mountains, deep fjords, and lush greenery, shaped over time by glacial activity. Its terrain features a mixture of jagged peaks, rolling hills, and expansive wetlands that support diverse vegetation. Coastal heaths, birch forests, and alpine meadows create a mosaic of plant life, with low-lying areas covered in mosses, lichens, and wildflowers during the warmer months.

The valleys and lower elevations are dominated by mountain birch, which gradually give way to tundra vegetation as the elevation increases. Møysalen Mountain itself is a commanding presence, with snow often capping its summit well into the summer. The area is also interspersed with numerous rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, many of which originate from glacial meltwater.

Wildlife is abundant in Møysalen National Park, with a variety of mammals and bird species inhabiting its diverse ecosystems. Moose are commonly seen in the valleys and forests, while red foxes and otters frequent the park’s waterways. Lynx, though elusive, are present in the region.

The park’s location along the Norwegian coastline also makes it a habitat for marine mammals, with harbor seals and even occasional sightings of orcas and other whales in the nearby fjords.

Birdwatchers will find the park particularly rewarding, as it is home to a variety of seabirds, waders, and raptors. White-tailed eagles are a frequent sight, soaring above the fjords, while species such as the black guillemot and puffins thrive along the coastal cliffs.

One of the park’s most famous features is the hike to Møysalen Mountain, a challenging yet rewarding trek that offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands, fjords, and peaks. The hike typically takes between eight and twelve hours round trip, passing through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to alpine ridges.

The park’s location near the Arctic Circle also means that visitors can experience the Midnight Sun in the summer and the Northern Lights in the winter, adding to its appeal. In addition to hiking, visitors can explore the park through guided tours, kayaking excursions, and wildlife-watching trips. The nearby fjords provide excellent opportunities for boating and fishing, while winter months bring possibilities for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing.

Conservation efforts in Møysalen National Park focus on preserving its pristine ecosystems while balancing the needs of visitors. The park’s remote location and relatively low visitor numbers have helped maintain its ecological integrity, but climate change poses a challenge, particularly with shifting vegetation patterns and potential impacts on local wildlife.

Sustainable tourism initiatives, including guided hikes and strict regulations on camping and waste management, help to mitigate human impact. Local authorities work closely with conservation organizations to monitor the park’s biodiversity and implement strategies to protect its fragile habitats. Through these efforts, Møysalen National Park remains one of Norway’s most spectacular and untouched natural landscapes, offering visitors an immersive experience in the Arctic wilderness.

Park Map

Moysalen National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Møysalen National Park is home to a remarkable variety of bird species, ranging from majestic birds of prey to seabirds that thrive along the fjords and coastal cliffs. The park provides a crucial habitat for both resident and migratory birds.

White-tailed Eagle
As one of Europe’s largest birds of prey, the white-tailed eagle is an iconic species in Norway. With its impressive wingspan and powerful talons, it primarily hunts fish and waterfowl.

Peregrine Falcon
Known for its breathtaking speed, the peregrine falcon is a skilled hunter that preys on small birds. It is often seen soaring over the cliffs and fjords of Møysalen.

Golden Eagle
This majestic raptor is one of the top predators in the park. Golden eagles have keen eyesight and powerful claws, allowing them to hunt hares, ptarmigans, and even young reindeer.

Gyrfalcon
A rare but spectacular sight, the gyrfalcon is the world’s largest falcon. It thrives in cold environments and is a formidable hunter of other birds.

Atlantic Puffin
With its distinctive colorful beak, the Atlantic puffin is a beloved seabird that nests on rocky cliffs. It feeds primarily on small fish, which it catches by diving underwater.

Common Eider
This large sea duck is commonly found in coastal waters, where it dives for mollusks and crustaceans. Its soft down feathers have long been valued for insulation.

Black Guillemot
A striking black-and-white seabird, the black guillemot is frequently seen along rocky coastlines. It is an agile diver that preys on fish and invertebrates.

Northern Gannet
Recognized for its impressive diving skills, the northern gannet plunges into the sea from great heights to catch fish. It is a common sight along the park’s coastal cliffs.

Snowy Owl
Occasionally seen in the park during winter, the snowy owl is a stunning bird of prey with white plumage that blends into snowy landscapes. It primarily hunts lemmings and other small mammals.

Eurasian Oystercatcher
This distinctive wading bird, with its black-and-white plumage and bright orange bill, is often found along the coast. It feeds on shellfish and marine invertebrates by skillfully prying them open.

Møysalen National Park is a true wildlife haven, offering nature lovers a chance to observe Arctic and subarctic species in their natural habitat. Whether exploring its mountains, valleys, or fjords, visitors are sure to encounter some of Norway’s most fascinating animals.

Møysalen National Park, located in northern Norway, is a stunning protected area known for its rugged mountains, deep fjords, and diverse wildlife. The park is named after Møysalen, the highest peak in the Lofoten and Vesterålen region, and offers a pristine Arctic ecosystem where visitors can encounter a variety of fascinating species.

Eurasian Elk (Moose)
The largest land mammal in the park, the Eurasian elk (moose) roams through the dense forests and open valleys. These solitary herbivores are often seen grazing on willow and birch trees near wetland areas.

Red Fox
An adaptable and cunning predator, the red fox thrives in Møysalen’s diverse habitats. It hunts small mammals, birds, and even scavenges when necessary, making it a key part of the park’s ecosystem.

Eurasian Lynx
This elusive and majestic wildcat is one of Norway’s top predators. The Eurasian lynx primarily hunts roe deer and hares, and while rare to spot, its presence is crucial for maintaining ecological balance.

Arctic Hare
Perfectly adapted to the cold climate, the Arctic hare changes its coat from brown in the summer to white in the winter for camouflage. It plays an essential role in the food chain as prey for predators like foxes and lynxes.

Reindeer
Reindeer, both wild and semi-domesticated, are commonly found in the park. These resilient animals migrate seasonally and are well adapted to the harsh Arctic conditions.

European Otter
This playful semi-aquatic mammal can be found in the park’s rivers and coastal waters. The European otter is an excellent swimmer and preys on fish, amphibians, and small crustaceans.

Grey Wolf
Although rare, the grey wolf has been occasionally spotted in the park. As a top predator, it plays an important role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem by controlling herbivore populations.

Stoat (Ermine)
A small but fierce predator, the stoat is well known for its agility and hunting skills. It preys on rodents and other small mammals, often using abandoned burrows for shelter.

Harbor Seal
Along the park’s coastal areas, harbor seals can be seen resting on rocky shores or swimming in the fjords. These marine mammals rely on fish and squid for sustenance.

European Hedgehog
Though primarily a nocturnal species, the European hedgehog can sometimes be found foraging for insects and worms in the park’s lower elevations.

Birds

Peregrine Falcon
Known for its breathtaking speed, the peregrine falcon is a skilled hunter that preys on small birds. It is often seen soaring over the cliffs and fjords of Møysalen.

Golden Eagle
This majestic raptor is one of the top predators in the park. Golden eagles have keen eyesight and powerful claws, allowing them to hunt hares, ptarmigans, and even young reindeer.

Gyrfalcon
A rare but spectacular sight, the gyrfalcon is the world’s largest falcon. It thrives in cold environments and is a formidable hunter of other birds.

Atlantic Puffin
With its distinctive colorful beak, the Atlantic puffin is a beloved seabird that nests on rocky cliffs. It feeds primarily on small fish, which it catches by diving underwater.

Common Eider
This large sea duck is commonly found in coastal waters, where it dives for mollusks and crustaceans. Its soft down feathers have long been valued for insulation.

Black Guillemot
A striking black-and-white seabird, the black guillemot is frequently seen along rocky coastlines. It is an agile diver that preys on fish and invertebrates.

Northern Gannet
Recognized for its impressive diving skills, the northern gannet plunges into the sea from great heights to catch fish. It is a common sight along the park’s coastal cliffs.

Birds

Peregrine Falcon
Known for its breathtaking speed, the peregrine falcon is a skilled hunter that preys on small birds. It is often seen soaring over the cliffs and fjords of Møysalen.

Golden Eagle
This majestic raptor is one of the top predators in the park. Golden eagles have keen eyesight and powerful claws, allowing them to hunt hares, ptarmigans, and even young reindeer.

Gyrfalcon
A rare but spectacular sight, the gyrfalcon is the world’s largest falcon. It thrives in cold environments and is a formidable hunter of other birds.

Atlantic Puffin
With its distinctive colorful beak, the Atlantic puffin is a beloved seabird that nests on rocky cliffs. It feeds primarily on small fish, which it catches by diving underwater.

Common Eider
This large sea duck is commonly found in coastal waters, where it dives for mollusks and crustaceans. Its soft down feathers have long been valued for insulation.

Black Guillemot
A striking black-and-white seabird, the black guillemot is frequently seen along rocky coastlines. It is an agile diver that preys on fish and invertebrates.

Northern Gannet
Recognized for its impressive diving skills, the northern gannet plunges into the sea from great heights to catch fish. It is a common sight along the park’s coastal cliffs.