The Norwegian Trekking Association is closing several mountain cabins and trails to protect wild reindeer populations. Five popular cabins across Hardangervidda, Ryfylke, and Setesdal regions will be shut down.
The association is also closing 125 kilometers of hiking trails in Hardangervidda and Ryfylke/Setesdal areas. Another 60 kilometers of trails in Rondane and Dovrefjell will be closed.
Tourist routes are being modified across 73 additional kilometers on Hardangervidda plateau. Several cabins will have reduced opening hours, and some self-service cabins will convert to staffed service with shorter seasons.
These measures limit public access to some of Norway's most traditional mountain areas. The association acknowledges this reduces outdoor recreation opportunities but says protecting wild reindeer requires action.
Norway hosts some of Europe's last wild reindeer populations. Recent surveys show six of ten national wild reindeer areas are in poor condition.
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 draft plans covering Hardangervidda and Setesdal/Ryfylke regions ends October 31.
Norway bears important responsibility for preserving wild reindeer, according to association officials. The new measures will redirect hikers away from areas and times particularly vulnerable to disturbance.
Protecting wild reindeer requires teamwork involving municipalities, government, businesses, and hunters. Changing trails and opening hours in high mountain areas also raises safety considerations that require management coordination.
This represents a significant shift for Norway's outdoor recreation culture, where mountain access has traditionally been largely unrestricted. The closures reflect growing recognition that even nature tourism needs management to protect vulnerable wildlife.