The Norwegian Trekking Association is shutting down five mountain cabins across popular hiking regions. The closures affect huts in Hardangervidda, Ryfylke, and Setesdal. These areas contain critical habitat for endangered wild reindeer.
The organization will also remove 125 kilometers of hiking trails. Another 73 kilometers of paths on the Hardangervidda plateau will be rerouted. Hardangervidda hosts Europe's largest wild reindeer population.
DNT Secretary General Inger Lise Blyverket acknowledged the impact on outdoor access. She said the measures limit public recreation opportunities but will improve the reindeer's situation. The wild reindeer population faces pressure from human disturbance and habitat fragmentation.
This represents a significant shift in Norway's approach to balancing outdoor recreation with conservation. The country traditionally promotes free public access to nature through 'allemannsretten' rights. These closures show even established outdoor traditions must adapt when species face extinction.
Norwegian wild reindeer protection measures are becoming more common as conservation needs grow. The move follows similar restrictions in other reindeer habitats across southern Norway.