Børgefjell/Byrkije National Park lies within the municipalities of Namsskogan, Røyrvik, Hattfjelldal and Grane. The national park was opened in 1963 as Norway’s second national park. You can read moe about the national park at borgefjellnasjonalpark.no.
Børgefjell is made up of high peaks, rolling valleys, wild waterfalls and long green plateaus. In the east, you will find expansive and rounded summits, in the west high peaks and deep valleys with glacial cirques and mountain lakes, while in the south there are several stretches of wild rapids and beautiful waterfalls. There are virtually no marked hiking trails.
If you wish to visit Børgefjell you can start your adventure either at Namsvatnet in Røyrvik or by the gateway to the national park at Smalåsen/Smeelehaesie in Namsskogan. If you start in Røyrvik you can start your trip by staying overnight at Limingen Gjestegård before you head north and in to the park.
The gateway to the national park at Smalåsen is signposted from the E6 road. From Smalåsen you can enjoy a nice day hike into Namskroken, in the national park. You can also start a proper wilderness adventure from Smalåsen.
Arctic fox and animal life
Today Børgefjell National Park is home to the only population of Arctic fox in Norway capable of survival without intervention. The Arctic fox was protected in 1930, but the population has not increased, and there are now only a few animals left. If you are lucky enough to see one, you will know you have been on a unique nature-based experience. You can learn more about the Arctic Foc at the Visit Børgefjell Arctic Fox centre in Røyrvik.
Wolverines, lynx and bears can also be found in the national park. The moose is protected from hunting in parts of Børgefjell National Park. There are also a large population of grazing reindeer, a part of local Sami reindeer husbandry. We ask that you respect reindeer herds grazing or relaxing, and keep your distance.
The bird life is particularly diverse in the area around the river Simskardelva and Tiplingan, with species including the golden eagles, rough-legged buzzard and snowy owl.
Hiking, fishing and hunting
Børgefjell is known as one of Norway’s last true wilderness areas, popular among hikers and fishing enthusiasts. It is renowned for a multitude of lakes with abundant fish stocks, the largest of which are Simskardvatnet and Orvatnet. The rivers Namsen and Vefsna both originate in the Børgefjell National Park. Hunting opportunities are dominated by grouse and small game hunting. Remember a fishing licence, easy to purchase on iNatur.no.
Demanding national park
The varied and at times alpine terrain means the weather changes often in Børgefjell, and heavy precipitation and harsh winters are common. Consequently, people planning to hike here require suitable clothing for various conditions.
