Junkerdal National Park

Junkerdal is also well known for its excellent fishing. Small and large lakes are scattered throughout the landscape, many of them home to healthy populations of brown trout. At the same time, the park offers peace, open mountain landscapes and outstanding wilderness experiences for those seeking to explore beyond the most frequently visited areas.

Although the landscape appears wild and untouched today, it has been used for Sámi reindeer husbandry for generations. Reindeer herding remains an active part of the national park, and visitors are asked to show consideration for both the reindeer and the herders. Climate change and increasing visitor numbers are making both the natural environment and traditional livelihoods more vulnerable. Many of Junkerdal’s natural values are rare, irreplaceable and highly sensitive to disturbance.

Experiences
Junkerdal National Park is surrounded by areas rich in both natural and cultural heritage. North of the park lies the former mining settlement of Jakobsbakken, established more than a century ago in connection with the Sulitjelma mining industry. Several of the original buildings remain, offering insight into the history of one of Norway’s most important industrial communities. Today, Jakobsbakken Mountain Resort provides accommodation and nature-based experiences in these historic surroundings.

Further towards Sulitjelma, you will find Daja Mountain Village, featuring an alpine ski centre, cross-country ski trails and excellent opportunities for ski touring during winter. The area is renowned for its reliable snow conditions and is regularly used by both recreational skiers and elite athletes.

For those looking for longer hiking adventures, an extensive network of marked trails and self-service cabins maintained by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) extends through and around the national park. Skaitidalen Valley is a popular destination for visitors wishing to experience the park’s lush and fertile landscapes. Many of the hikes pass through varied and, at times, demanding terrain, rewarding visitors with spectacular scenery along the way.
Facilities and Visitor Information

Compared with many other national parks in the region, Junkerdal offers a greater number of marked trails and accommodation options. However, much of the park remains undeveloped wilderness. Changing weather conditions, river crossings and long distances can make hikes more challenging than expected, making careful planning and suitable equipment essential.
When visiting the park, it is important to travel responsibly and show respect for both nature and reindeer husbandry. Avoid approaching reindeer, and keep a safe distance if you encounter animals during your hike. Take all litter home with you, and exercise particular care in sensitive areas where rare plants and fragile vegetation are easily damaged.
Information about hiking trails, cabins and suggested routes is available on ut.no and from local tourism and outdoor recreation providers.
Recommended Trailheads

Jakobsbakken is the main access point in the north, providing easy access to marked hiking trails, viewpoints and the mountain landscapes surrounding Sulitjelma.
In the south, Storjord and the Nordland National Park Visitor Centre serve as natural starting points for hikes into Junkerdal, including routes towards Solvågtinden and Junkerdalsura.
From Skaiti and Trygvebu, you can follow the marked DNT trails and the Nordlandsruta long-distance hiking trail into the high mountains, with access to several self-service mountain cabins throughout the area.