The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) is closing five mountain cabins and restricting access to others. These measures aim to protect the endangered wild reindeer population in southern Norway.
Torehytten on Hardangervidda, Storsteinen, Grasdalen, Eidavatn in Ryfylke, and Øyuvsbu in Setesdal will close completely. The association is also removing 125 kilometers of hiking trails across Hardangervidda and Ryfylke/Setesdal regions.
Another 60 kilometers of trails in Rondane and Dovrefjell will close. DNT will redirect 73 kilometers of trails on Hardangervidda.
Several self-service cabins will convert to staffed operations with shorter opening hours. These changes limit public access to some of Norway's most traditional mountain areas.
DNT Secretary General Inger Lise Blyverket explained the decision. "We implement these measures because we want to help improve the wild reindeer's situation," she said in a statement.
Norway hosts some of Europe's last wild reindeer herds. Recent surveys show six of ten national wild reindeer areas have poor conditions.
The Climate and Environment Ministry began work on action plans for wild reindeer earlier this year. These plans rely on voluntary participation from various stakeholders.
The consultation deadline for Hardangervidda and Setesdal/Ryfylke draft plans ends October 31.
"Norway has an important responsibility for the wild reindeer," Blyverket stated. "With these measures, we direct hikers away from places and times that are particularly vulnerable for wild reindeer."
She emphasized that protecting wild reindeer requires teamwork. Municipalities, state authorities, businesses, and hunters must all contribute.
Changing trails and opening hours in high mountain areas also raises safety concerns. DNT now discusses with management how to proceed best with these changes.
This represents a significant shift for Norway's outdoor recreation culture. The country traditionally promotes free access to nature, but conservation needs now require new compromises.