Contrasting and diverse

Trollheimen is an area with diverse nature and high biological value. The lakes are dominated by trout, but some lakes are naturally fishless and host rare species such as the southern fairy shrimp, a critically endangered species found in only a few places in Norway. 

The vegetation ranges from primeval pine forests to high alpine areas. Blueberry birch forests dominate the slopes, while lush birch forests interspersed with tall forbs thrive where nutrients and moisture are abundant. Trollheimen is botanically unique and home to many rare species, such as Norwegian wormwood and a local variant of the Arctic poppy.

The varied landscape also provides a rich wildlife – red deer, moose and roe deer are all found in healthy populations, while the wolverine is the most established predator. Eurasian lynx appear sporadically, and bears and wolves occasionally roam through the area. Smaller predators such as badgers, martens, otters and stoats are common, and hares are found in large numbers. Small rodents such as lemmings, tundra voles and northern birch mice are widespread, and Trollheimen is a core habitat for the northern birch mouse. The red fox dominates in lower-lying areas.

Trollheimen is also home to many bird species, from rock ptarmigan in the high alpine areas to birds of prey such as the golden eagle and gyrfalcon. The area has significant botanical and zoological value and is important for the conservation of Norway’s biodiversity.