Nationalparks Møysalen

Norway´s National Parks are regulated by the laws of nature. Nature decides both how and when to do things. National Parks are established in order to protect large natural areas - from the coast to the mountains. This is done for our sake, for generations to come and for the benefit of nature itself.

MØYSALEN NATIONAL PARK

County: Nordland

Established: 2003

Size: 51,2 km2

Magnificent and varied landscape

The landscape of the Lofoten and Vesterålen region is magnificent and full of contrasts. It represents nature types and landscapes that to some extent haven´t been protected until now. Møysalen National Park is Norway´s third smallest, with an area of only 51,2 km2. The Møysalen peak at 1.262 meters is the centerpiece of the magnificent and varied nature of the area, the last sizeable area in the region undisturbed by major infrastructure development.

To the top of Møysalen

Hiking in the coastal mountains makes for magnificent views. In the national Park there´s a couple of marked trails, and railings on the mountain side help you to the top of Møysalen. There´s also an unstaffed tourist cabin just outside the National Park. Small game hunting and fishing is possible. Remember your fishinng and hunting liccenses. Another way to view the scenery is from a boat on the fjord.

Magnificent and full of contrasts

The landscape is magnificent and full of contrasts with unique mountain formations, rich deciduous forest, old farmland and open fjords, unique in Norway. It represents nature types and landscapes that to some extent haven´t been protected until now.

The centerpiece of the area is the Møysalen peak at 1.262 metres. The name means maiden saddle, and refers to the characteristic shape of the massif. The twin peaks of the mountain protrude on each side of the saddle. These are the big maiden and the small maiden, two troll maidens in stone, according to local legend. The saddle itself is what they´re riding, or, in another meaning of the Norwegian name - the roof over the maidens hall.

The eastern shore of the fjord Øksfjorden is significantly different from the rest of the area, with its soft, rolling landscape. In the north is the Trovangen waterfall. With one of the regions tallest freefalls, it makes a magnificent impression.

Cross-section of the region

The area contains a cross-section of the regions typical flora, and is the habitat of several important species of birds of prey.

Valuable insight

The cultural monuments and sites in the area are typical of the region. Because of an early stop to development and use of the area, they give valuable insight into history, not found anywhere else. A strong cross-influence between Sami and Norwegian culture makes the area especially valuable.

You´ll find traces of both Sami and Norwegian settlements, old pit-falls and mining sites. Parts of the area are still today main reindeer herding and grazing grounds.