Scandinavian Mountains

The Scandinavian Mountains are the principal mountain chain running along the length of Norway and into western Sweden, forming the major highland backbone of the region. They contain many alpine plateaus, glacial valleys and high summits.

The mountains include differentiated regions from the high peaks of southern Norway to plateau and tundra areas in the north; they host national parks, glaciers and established routes for hiking, climbing and ski touring. High-alpine environments give way to forested foothills on the lowland margins.

These ranges developed through tectonic uplift and long-term glacial shaping and have been used historically for pasture, travel routes and more recently for outdoor recreation and tourism. Protected areas and mountain infrastructure support access and conservation.

The chain extends for many hundreds of kilometres across Norway and Sweden and forms an important climatic and ecological divide in Scandinavia.

• Geographic extent: The range runs broadly along the spine of Norway and into western Sweden, forming the principal mountainous backbone of Scandinavia.
• Highest peak: Galdhøpiggen, within the range in southern Norway, is the highest peak in mainland Scandinavia at 2,469 metres.

What to See #

• Major peaks: Galdhøpiggen and other high summits that are popular objectives for mountaineers and hikers in southern Norway.
• Alpine landscapes: Extensive alpine plateaus, glacial valleys and national parks that provide routes for trekking and backcountry skiing.