Leave No Trace

What does Leave No Trace mean?

Hardangervidda is a fragile natural area visited by hundreds of thousands of people every year. For nature to be preserved for future generations, it is important that we all take responsibility when we venture out. Leave No Trace means leaving nature as you found it — or ideally a little better.

The principles below are based on international guidelines for sustainable outdoor recreation and have been adapted to Norwegian conditions.

Plan and prepare

Good planning reduces risk and environmental impact. Learn the rules for the area you are visiting, be prepared for changing weather, and travel in small groups to minimise wear on nature.

Travel on durable surfaces

Stick to marked trails and established camp and rest areas. Avoid treading on sensitive vegetation such as mosses, lichen and alpine plants. Walk in single file on narrow paths to prevent them from widening.

Dispose of waste properly

Take all rubbish home with you. This includes food scraps, fruit peels and other organic material that breaks down slowly in the mountains. Human waste should be buried at least 70 metres from water, trails and campsites.

Leave what you find

Cultural heritage sites, plants, stones and animals are part of nature and should not be moved or removed. It is prohibited to pick plants or take cultural artefacts from the national park.

Campfires

From 15 April to 15 September, open fires are generally prohibited in Norwegian wildland. Use a camping stove or gas burner instead. Outside the fire ban period, you may make a fire where it is clearly safe to do so and use existing fire sites.

Respect wildlife

Keep a safe distance from all wild animals, especially during calving and nesting season in spring and early summer. Dogs must be kept on a lead throughout the year in the national park. Disturbing animals is not only stressful for them — it can be directly dangerous, especially for young animals.

Be considerate of others

Show respect for other hikers and local residents. Keep noise levels down, especially at viewpoints and rest areas. Share trails and rest spots courteously, and be aware that your experience of silence and nature is equally important to others.