Dovrefjell National Park has a varied landscape with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking nature. The contrasts are great, from the dramatic almost alpine scenery with waterfalls in the northwest, to the rounded mountains and dry climate in the east. Great variation offers a range of experiences as varied as the landscape. The park contains an almost intact ecosystem that includes wild reindeer, wolverines, arctic foxes, ravens and golden eagles. And the only Norwegian population of musk oxen also lives in Dovrefjell.
The musk ox died out during the last Ice Age, but where reintroduced from Greenland between 1932 and 1953. The cold and dry climate of Dovrefjell suites their compact bodies and robust coat. You can follow the marked Musk Ox Trail from Kongsvold or Grønbakken and search for musk ox on your own. But you can significantly increase your chances when being accommpanied by a knowledgeable guide. Musk ox safaris are organized daily during the summer season and you can find more information here.
Dovrefjell National Park offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can walk, ski and spend the night wherever you want. Snøhetta (2286m) is the most majestic peak within the park’s boundaries. It was once believed to be the highest mountain in Norway. The mostly used trails to the summit are signposted by DNT (The Norwegian Mountain Association) which also exploits the cabins Snøheim and Reinheim. Alternatively you can learn more about the history and wildlife of the area at the Norwegian Wild Reindeer Centre at Tverrfjellet near Hjerkinn.
Last but not least you should not miss out on visiting the spectacular Snøhetta Viewpoint. The building was designed by Snøhetta architects and opened in 2011. It was commissioned by the Norwegian Wild Reindeer Centre. The pavilion is a boxed-steel construction, with a large glass surface facing Snøhetta mountain to the north, and an organic, undulating wooden shape to the south. The building is open and accessible during the summer months and is just 20 minutes walk from the car park at Tverrfjellet. On the way up a series of stone slabs tells the history of Dovrefjell over the last 10000 years. The building has won several international awards.
More information and specific rules which you have to take into account when exploring the national park, can be found on this link.