Stabbursdalen National Park

Stabbursdalen National Park is located in Finnmark, Norway, in the northernmost part of the country. It is situated near the town of Vardø and the city of Vadsø. The park was established in 1970 to protect the unique Arctic wilderness and its diverse flora and fauna. Parking facilities are available at the park entrance, with ample space for visitors. There is no specific fee for parking, but it is essential to adhere to designated parking areas and avoid blocking access roads. The park is home to a variety of native wildlife species, including reindeer, arctic fox, lemming, and ptarmigan. Visitors may also encounter larger mammals like brown bear, moose, and wolf, although sightings are less frequent. Unique to the park is the presence of the Eurasian golden plover, a migratory bird that nests in the area. The native flora of Stabbursdalen National Park is primarily composed of Arctic tundra vegetation. Common plant species include willow, birch, crowberry, and cloudberry. In the spring, the park is carpeted with colorful wildflowers like purple saxifrage and yellow buttercup. Notable features within the park include the Stabbursdalen valley, a glacial valley with towering cliffs and waterfalls. The park is also home to several lakes, including the Store Stabbursvatn and Lille Stabbursvatn, offering opportunities for fishing and boating. Public transport is available to reach Stabbursdalen National Park. Visitors can take a bus from Vardø or Vadsø to the park entrance. Alternatively, it is possible to drive to the park, with scenic routes passing through the Arctic landscape. Photo Credit: Thor Thorsson