Tinnholvegen

Bjoreidalen parking lot

Agastølen Please don't block the tractor road The stone cabins you see are traditional mountain farm shelters. They are likely over 200 years old and were originally stone shelters associated with one of the routes crossing the Hardangervidda plateau. Such stone shelters are common at the Hardangervidda; they served as dwellings for exploiting the mountain pasture resources. The building style is a result of the available building materials in the mountains. Wood was scarce, but stone was abundant in the area or nearby. As a result, walls were built with stone, while the load-bearing structure in the roof was made of wood. From here, by following the Norwegian Trekking Association's trail network, you can do a nice hike to Halne or Stigstuv. Remember: You can only park here, no overnight stays are permitted. Read information about the Hardangervidda, the nature, and wildlife in the text below! Please don't block the tractor road Hardangervidda is the largest contiguous wild reindeer area in Norway. Here, the wild reindeer live in and around the Hardangervidda National Park. Norway has an international responsibility to preserve the wild reindeer. Hardangervidda is one of ten national wild reindeer areas, stretching from Agder in the south to Trøndelag in the north. At the Hardangervidda plateau, the wild reindeer primarily inhabit the barren mountain landscape but may, at times, utilize the forest as part of their habitat. The marginal and demanding living conditions in the mountains mean that the reindeer are constantly on the move in search of food. Wild reindeer require vast areas and migrate across large parts of their habitat. Climate, vegetation, and geographical conditions are crucial factors in determining where the reindeer find food at different times of the year. However, human activity also influences the reindeer's whereabouts. Reindeer have been a significant resource in the development of the human species (Homo sapiens). This has resulted in the reindeer fearing humans. The greatest threat to the existence of the wild reindeer is the degradation of their habitat. We humans have built roads, railways, hydroelectric developments, and cabins. This has gradually contributed to the fragmentation of the reindeer's habitat, hindering their natural migration between grazing areas. The existence of wild reindeer depends on how humans take care of their habitats. Get to know the indigenous animal that lives at the Hardangervidda. The wild reindeer has been in Norway since the inland ice retreated 10,000 years ago. The reindeer was the livelihood for the hunters who followed it during its migration between the various seasonal pastures. Trapping with pitfall traps and knowledge of the wild reindeer's migration habits have likely been the most effective trapping methods throughout history. Today, all hunting is done with rifles, and knowledge of migration habits is still important. The wild reindeer lives in herds and is called "the nomad of the mountains". It migrates between different grazing areas throughout the year. During the winter, much of its diet consists of lichen, while the rest of the year it feeds on grass, herbs, and leaves from low shrubs. The hooves of the wild reindeer are shaped to function like snowshoes and shovels in the snow. The reindeer is particularly adapted to a cold climate, with a very warm coat of hollow hair. The reindeer makes a low, grunting, or snorting sound, which is called "garting” Animals and birds at the Hardangervidda live in a "harsh climate." At the Hardangervidda plateau, characteristic species such as wild reindeer, mountain grouse, lily grouse, hunting falcon, merlin, and rough-legged buzzard live. Annually, there are fluctuations in the abundance of mice and lemmings, which affects bird populations and predators that feed on small rodents. The Hardangervidda plateau forms the southern boundary of the habitat for many Arctic animals, such as the wolverine, Arctic fox, and snowy owl. They must endure snow and frost, strong winds and cold, but also scorching sun. Therefore, it is especially important to be considerate and avoid unnecessarily disturbing of animals and birds when you are outdoors. Summer is breeding season. If you discover nests, chicks, or anxious behavior from adult birds, leave the area as quickly as possible. When encountering wild reindeer, sit down calmly and remain still until the reindeer have moved away. Wild reindeer have traditionally been an important food resource utilized by the communities around the plateau. The same applies to trout, which is the most common fish in the waters of the plateau. Hunting and fishing are rights belonging to landowners and rights holders. For state-owned land (statsalmenningen), it is possible to purchase fishing and hunting licenses at www.inatur.no. The tourist office can provide more information about the offerings. "The Right to Roam" gives us the right to travel and stay in the mountains - but it also comes with responsibilities. Dogs must be kept on a leash to prevent them from chasing and harming wildlife or grazing animals. In the national park, there is a leash requirement all year round. Outside the national park, it applies from April 1st to August 20th, or as long as there are grazing animals in the mountains. Show respect for bird and animal life. Do not disturb unnecessarily; withdraw if you discover nests or chicks. Tents cannot be pitched closer than 150 meters to private cabins and inhabited houses. Near tourist cabins, you can camp closer - check with the cabin hosts where you can pitch your tent. Be aware of designated areas along Tinnhølvegen road and associated parking lots. Avoid marking nature with cairns, tent rings, and similar. Clean up after yourself and take all your waste with you. The nature is fragile, and vegetation gets worn down. Follow established trails. Use established toilets. If this is not possible, dig a hole in the ground or lift a stone and replace it afterwards. Wet wipes are waste that must be taken and disposed of in residual waste. During summer season (April 15 - September 15), there is a general ban on bonfires and the use of open fires. Use established fire pits and make sure there is no risk of fire. The weather can change quickly in the mountains. Always bring extra warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and a flashlight. Inform someone about your whereabouts, and bring a map and compass or GPS with extra batteries. Parking should be done in designated parking areas.