16.1 Introduction
Between Gudbrandsdalen, Rondane, Trondheim and the western mountain regions lies one of Norway's most distinctive highland landscapes: Dovrefjell.
This is a place of broad mountain plateaus, wild reindeer, musk oxen, historic travel routes and dramatic peaks. It is also one of the easiest mountain regions in Norway to incorporate into a road or rail journey because the E6 and Dovre Railway cross the area between Oslo and Trondheim. Dombås forms an important southern gateway, while Hjerkinn and Kongsvoll provide access deeper into the mountain landscape.
Dovrefjell is particularly famous for the musk ox, an ancient-looking Arctic animal that lives wild in Norway only in this region. The area is also home to vulnerable wild reindeer, so responsible travel is especially important.
Dovrefjell at a Glance
Main gateway: Dombås. Important mountain settlements: Hjerkinn, Kongsvoll. Major mountain: Snøhetta, 2,286 m. Famous wildlife: Musk ox, wild reindeer, moose. Main road: E6. Main railway: Dovre Railway. Major national parks: Dovre National Park and Dovrefjell–Sunndalsfjella National Park. Best for: Wildlife, hiking, photography, road trips, rail journeys. Famous viewpoint: Viewpoint SNØHETTA. Major hiking season: mainly summer and early autumn. Winter experiences: snowshoeing, skiing and guided wildlife activities.
16.2 Dombås — Gateway to Dovrefjell
Dombås is one of the most useful bases for exploring the southern side of Dovrefjell.
The town sits at the meeting point of important transport routes and has both a railway station and road connections. The Dovre Railway connects the area with Oslo and Trondheim, while the Rauma Railway continues from Dombås towards Åndalsnes.
For travellers moving through Norway, Dombås can work as: a one-night stop between Oslo and Trondheim, a base for Dovrefjell activities, a starting point for cycling, a winter activity base, a gateway to Dovre and Rondane, a convenient stop during a long Norwegian road trip.
Tour de Dovre: cyclists can use Dombås as a starting point for the Tour de Dovre, a multi-day cycling adventure connecting the Dovre, Rondane and Dovrefjell areas. The route can also be combined with train travel.
This makes Dombås particularly attractive to travellers who want to combine public transport with outdoor adventure.
16.3 Hjerkinn — The Mountain Gateway
Further north from Dombås is Hjerkinn, one of the most important access points to Dovrefjell.
Hjerkinn has a railway station and provides access to: Viewpoint SNØHETTA, Wild Reindeer Visitor Centre, Snøhetta hiking routes, musk ox experiences, horseback riding, historic mountain routes, Dovrefjell National Park.
The area has been used by travellers for centuries. Hjerkinn is also associated with historic mountain accommodation and the long tradition of crossing Dovrefjell between eastern and central Norway.
16.4 Viewpoint SNØHETTA
One of the easiest spectacular experiences in Dovrefjell is Viewpoint SNØHETTA.
The architectural pavilion stands on Tverrfjellet above Hjerkinn and looks towards the Snøhetta massif.
The walk from the parking area is approximately 1.5 kilometres and takes around 20–30 minutes. The route leads to a dramatic viewing pavilion where visitors can sit inside and look across the mountain landscape.
The pavilion was designed by the Norwegian architecture firm Snøhetta, whose name was itself inspired by the mountain.
Why visit? Viewpoint SNØHETTA is ideal for travellers who want spectacular mountain scenery without committing to a full-day summit hike. It is particularly good for: families, photographers, road-trip travellers, travellers with limited hiking experience, sunrise or sunset photography where conditions and opening access permit, a short stop during an Oslo–Trondheim journey.
The viewpoint is associated with the Wild Reindeer Visitor Centre, which explains the area's wildlife, history and traditional hunting culture.
Planning note: the visitor centre and viewpoint are seasonal, and winter conditions can close the access road and facilities. Check opening dates before travelling.
16.5 Snøhetta — The Mountain
At 2,286 metres, Snøhetta is the highest mountain in Dovrefjell–Sunndalsfjella National Park and one of Norway's most recognisable mountain peaks.
Snøhetta is considerably more serious than the short walk to Viewpoint SNØHETTA.
A summit expedition requires: good weather, proper mountain clothing, strong footwear, navigation skills, sufficient food and water, awareness of changing mountain conditions, adequate daylight, careful route planning. For travellers unfamiliar with Norwegian high mountains, a guided trip can provide additional safety and local knowledge.
Snøhetta and the wild reindeer: the Snøhetta area is important habitat for wild reindeer. Visitors should remain on appropriate routes and avoid disturbing animals.
Wild reindeer are sensitive to human activity, particularly during vulnerable periods. If you encounter reindeer, keep your distance and allow them to move away naturally.
16.6 The Musk Ox — Dovrefjell's Most Famous Animal
The musk ox is the wildlife symbol of Dovrefjell.
These large Arctic animals have a remarkable appearance and can weigh several hundred kilograms. They were reintroduced to Dovrefjell during the twentieth century after becoming extinct in Europe following the last Ice Age.
Dovrefjell is currently the only place in Norway where wild musk oxen can be experienced.
Never approach a musk ox: musk oxen may appear calm, but they are powerful wild animals.
The safest approach: 1. Never walk towards a musk ox. 2. Never try to feed it. 3. Never surround a herd. 4. Never position yourself between animals. 5. Keep a very large distance. 6. Follow the instructions of your guide. 7. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens rather than approaching for photographs.
Current guided safari information recommends a minimum distance of around 200 metres from musk oxen.
For this reason, a guided safari is an excellent way to experience the animals safely and responsibly.
16.7 Musk Ox Safaris
Several operators offer guided musk ox experiences around Dovrefjell.
A typical safari involves: safety briefing, transport to the starting point, mountain hiking, wildlife tracking, learning about local ecology, observing musk oxen from a safe distance, photography, return hike.
Current listed summer tours can last approximately 4–7 hours, depending on the operator and location. Some winter tours use skis or snowshoes because the animals move deeper into the mountain landscape.
Important seasonal consideration: musk ox behaviour and safari availability vary through the year. One operator notes that tours are not run in May because of the calving period. Always check the operator's current schedule rather than assuming that a safari runs every day.
16.8 Wild Reindeer
Musk oxen may attract most visitors, but Dovrefjell is equally important for wild reindeer.
These animals are adapted to harsh mountain conditions and have lived in the region for thousands of years.
The landscape also contains evidence of historical wild-reindeer hunting, helping connect today's outdoor experience with the long human history of Dovrefjell.
Responsible reindeer watching: if you see wild reindeer, stop and observe quietly, do not approach, do not chase them for photographs, keep dogs under control, follow marked routes and local restrictions, give herds plenty of space.
Wildlife protection is not simply about preserving the animals — it also helps preserve the wilderness experience for future travellers.
16.9 Kongsvoll
Kongsvoll is another historic access point to Dovrefjell.
The area is associated with the historic Kongsvold Mountain Lodge, whose oldest buildings date from the eighteenth century. Kongsvoll is also connected with the St. Olav Ways pilgrimage route.
The railway station makes Kongsvoll particularly interesting for travellers without a car.
You can arrive by train, stay locally and explore the surrounding mountains on foot.
For travellers combining Oslo → Dombås → Kongsvoll → Trondheim, the railway itself becomes part of the Norway experience.
16.10 Dovre National Park
Dovre National Park lies between the Dovrefjell and Rondane mountain areas.
It offers a quieter mountain experience than some of Norway's most famous hiking destinations.
The landscape includes: mountain plateaus, open valleys, lakes, reindeer habitat, hiking routes, historic travel routes, broad panoramic landscapes.
Access is possible from several directions, including Dombås, Dovre, Grimsdalen and Folldal.
Dovre works particularly well for travellers who want to experience Norway's mountains without focusing exclusively on famous summit hikes.
16.11 Dovrefjell–Sunndalsfjella National Park
To the west and north lies the much larger Dovrefjell–Sunndalsfjella National Park.
The landscape changes dramatically across the park.
Eastern areas tend to have broader, drier mountain landscapes, while the western side contains steeper mountains, deep valleys and a more dramatic terrain influenced by western Norway.
Important peaks include: Snøhetta — 2,286 m, Storkalken — 1,880 m, Storskrymten — 1,985 m.
The park protects valuable wildlife habitat and large areas of relatively untouched mountain nature.
16.12 The Pilgrim's Path — St. Olav Ways
Dovrefjell is crossed by parts of the St. Olav Ways, the historic pilgrimage network leading towards Trondheim and Nidaros Cathedral.
Walking sections of the route offers a different way to experience the region.
Instead of treating Dovrefjell simply as a place to drive through, hikers can experience: mountain landscapes, historic farms, old travel routes, churches, traditional accommodation, pilgrimage culture, slow travel.
For a longer Norway trip, combining a short pilgrimage walk with a road or rail itinerary can create a more varied experience.
16.13 Cycling in Dovrefjell
Dovrefjell is also suitable for cycling.
The Tour de Dovre is a multi-day concept connecting Dombås, Hjerkinn, Folldal and Grimsdalen before returning towards Dombås. The route passes through three national-park landscapes: Dovre, Rondane and Dovrefjell.
Cycling travellers should plan carefully for: mountain weather, long distances, elevation changes, limited services, food and water, seasonal road conditions.
Train-and-bike combinations can make logistics easier.
16.14 Winter in Dovrefjell
Dovrefjell becomes a completely different destination in winter.
Snow covers the plateau, daylight becomes limited and temperatures can fall rapidly.
Winter activities include: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, guided musk ox experiences, wildlife observation, winter photography, mountain accommodation, scenic train journeys.
Guided snowshoe activities are also available around Dombås during the winter season, although schedules and prices change from year to year.
Winter safety: do not treat a winter mountain excursion like a summer walk. Before leaving: check the weather forecast, check avalanche and mountain conditions where relevant, check road conditions, carry warm layers, bring navigation equipment, tell someone your plan, allow extra time, know when to turn around.
16.15 Dovrefjell by Train
One of the best ways to reach the region without driving is the Dovre Railway.
Trains connect Oslo and Trondheim, with stops serving places such as: Dombås, Hjerkinn, Kongsvoll, Dovre.
Dombås also provides the connection towards Åndalsnes via the Rauma Railway.
Rail adventure: Oslo → Dombås → Hjerkinn → Kongsvoll → Trondheim, or Oslo → Dombås → Åndalsnes → Ålesund.
For travellers who want scenery without driving, the railway can be the journey rather than merely transportation.
16.16 Dovrefjell by Car
The E6 crosses Dovrefjell and makes the region particularly convenient for road trips.
A traveller driving between Oslo and Trondheim can turn a long transfer day into a mountain experience by stopping at: Dombås → Hjerkinn → Viewpoint SNØHETTA → Kongsvoll.
Allow extra time for weather, photography and short walks.
Road-trip tip: do not underestimate mountain distances. A stop that looks short on the map can take considerably longer because of weather, road conditions, photo stops, hiking, wildlife, seasonal closures.
Always check current road information before departure.
16.17 Photography Guide
Best subjects: Snøhetta, Viewpoint SNØHETTA, musk ox, wild reindeer, mountain landscapes, winter snowfields, autumn colours, traditional mountain buildings, railway landscapes.
Wildlife photography: a telephoto lens is much more appropriate than trying to move closer to animals. For musk ox: distance + patience + zoom = better wildlife photography.
For landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can capture the enormous scale of the plateau.
16.18 Family Travel
Dovrefjell can work well for families if activities are selected according to age and weather.
Good options include: Viewpoint SNØHETTA, short nature walks, Wild Reindeer Visitor Centre, train journeys, wildlife observation, easy cycling, horseback riding with suitable operators, winter snowshoe experiences.
A full Snøhetta summit or long mountain trek should not automatically be treated as a family activity. Conditions and fitness requirements must be assessed individually.
16.19 Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1 — Dombås & Hjerkinn: Morning — arrive in Dombås, explore the town, continue towards Hjerkinn. Afternoon — visit the Wild Reindeer Visitor Centre, walk to Viewpoint SNØHETTA, photograph the mountain landscape. Evening — stay around Hjerkinn, Dombås or Kongsvoll.
Day 2 — Wildlife & Mountains: Morning — join a guided musk ox safari when operating. Afternoon — return to Dombås, continue towards your next destination. Possible onward routes: Trondheim, Åndalsnes, Lillehammer, Rondane.
16.20 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Dombås — arrival, local exploration and overnight stay.
- Day 2: Hjerkinn + Viewpoint SNØHETTA — Wild Reindeer Visitor Centre, viewpoint and short walks.
- Day 3: Musk Ox Safari — spend most of the day on a guided wildlife experience, then continue towards Trondheim or return south.
This itinerary provides a good combination of nature + wildlife + culture + scenic travel.
16.21 Suggested 5-Day Dovrefjell Journey
- Day 1: Lillehammer → Gudbrandsdalen → Dombås.
- Day 2: Dombås → Hjerkinn → Viewpoint SNØHETTA.
- Day 3: Musk ox safari.
- Day 4: Kongsvoll + hiking or pilgrimage walking.
- Day 5: Continue to Trondheim. Alternatively, continue south towards Rondane and Valdres.
16.22 Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) — best for: hiking, cycling, wildlife, long daylight, mountain photography, Viewpoint SNØHETTA, road trips.
Early Autumn (September–October) — excellent for: autumn colours, photography, wildlife, quieter mountain experiences. Musk ox safari availability varies by operator.
Winter (December–March) — best for: snowshoeing, skiing, winter landscapes, winter wildlife experiences, snow-covered Dovrefjell.
Spring — a complicated transition period in the mountains. Snow, mud, closures and wildlife sensitivity can all affect travel. Check conditions before planning a mountain excursion.
16.23 Accommodation Strategy
You can stay in: Dombås hotels, mountain lodges, Hjerkinn accommodation, Kongsvoll, cabins, farm stays, camping facilities where permitted.
For a short trip, Dombås is convenient.
For a deeper mountain experience, staying closer to Hjerkinn or Kongsvoll reduces daily driving.
16.24 Food & Local Mountain Experience
Dovrefjell is not primarily a food destination like Bergen or Trondheim, but mountain accommodation can provide an important part of the experience.
Look for: local lamb, mountain trout, traditional Norwegian breads, waffles, local dairy products, seasonal ingredients, hearty mountain meals.
After a cold mountain day, a warm meal in a traditional lodge can become one of the most memorable parts of the journey.
16.25 Budget Planning
Budget Traveller — train or bus, simple accommodation, self-guided short walks, packed lunches, free viewpoints.
Mid-Range Traveller — hotel or mountain lodge, restaurant meals, guided wildlife activity, local transport.
Premium Traveller — high-end mountain accommodation, private wildlife guide, specialised photography experience, multi-day guided hiking.
16.27 Suggested Routes
Main route: Dombås → Dovre → Hjerkinn → Viewpoint Snøhetta → Kongsvoll → Oppdal → Trondheim.
Second route: Dombås → Rondane → Folldal → Grimsdalen → Dombås.
16.29 Responsible Travel
Dovrefjell is a sensitive mountain ecosystem.
Visitors should: keep their distance from wildlife, stay on appropriate routes, keep dogs under control, never feed wild animals, take rubbish home, respect protected areas, avoid unnecessary noise, follow seasonal restrictions, leave vegetation and natural objects undisturbed, use established parking and camping areas where required.
Wild reindeer are particularly sensitive to disturbance, so responsible behaviour is essential.
16.30 Accessibility
Viewpoint SNØHETTA provides one of the easiest ways to experience the Dovrefjell landscape without undertaking a demanding mountain hike.
However, mountain weather, surfaces and snow can affect accessibility.
Travellers with mobility requirements should check current road, parking and pathway conditions before visiting.
16.31 Check Before You Go
Railway timetable, E6 road conditions, mountain weather forecast, Viewpoint SNØHETTA opening status, Wild Reindeer Visitor Centre opening dates, musk ox safari availability, wildlife restrictions, accommodation availability, hiking conditions, snow conditions, winter daylight hours, fuel availability, mobile coverage expectations, current parking/access arrangements.
Important: mountain conditions can change quickly. Do not assume that information from a previous season still applies.
16.32 Quick Reference
Destination: Dovrefjell. Main gateway: Dombås. Key access point: Hjerkinn. Highest major peak: Snøhetta — 2,286 m. Signature animal: Musk ox. Other wildlife: wild reindeer, moose and mountain birds. Main road: E6. Main railway: Dovre Railway. Top short experience: Viewpoint SNØHETTA. Top wildlife experience: guided musk ox safari. Best summer activity: hiking and wildlife. Best winter activity: snowshoeing and winter wildlife. Best travel style: road trip, rail journey, hiking or wildlife adventure.
16.33 Final Takeaway
Dovrefjell is one of the places where Norway's wildlife, mountains and history come together particularly clearly.
You can cross the region by train, drive through it on the E6, walk historic pilgrimage routes, stand beneath Snøhetta or spend several hours searching the plateau for a herd of musk ox.
Its greatest attraction is not a single viewpoint or town. It is the combination of open mountain wilderness, rare wildlife and centuries of travel across one of Norway's great natural barriers.
For a Norway itinerary between Oslo and Trondheim, Dovrefjell deserves to be treated as a destination rather than simply a section of road.