Øvre Pasvik National Park

Øvre Pasvik National Park protects a tract of boreal forest and wetland in the far northeast of Norway near the Russian and Finnish borders. It is important for old-growth pine forest and a suite of boreal species.

Landscape highlights are extensive coniferous forest, mires and riverine habitats that support rich birdlife and intact forest structure; the area is relatively flat compared with Norway’s mountainous regions. Outdoor activities focus on wildlife observation and low-impact recreation.

The park was established to conserve prime examples of northern boreal ecosystems and to maintain cross-border ecological continuity with adjacent reserves in Finland and Russia. Traditional land uses in surrounding areas continue under management plans.

Øvre Pasvik lies in Finnmark in Norway’s far northeast, adjacent to the Pasvik river valley and close to the international borders with Finland and Russia. The nearest settlements are small regional communities connected by local roads.

• Conservation value: The park forms part of a tri-border conservation zone and is especially valued for old-growth pine, boreal wetlands and bird species not common elsewhere in Norway.

What to See#

• Pasvik valley wetlands: Lowland river corridors and wetland complexes along the Pasvik valley form the park’s core, supporting extensive old-growth boreal pine and diverse birdlife.
• Transboundary forest: Contiguous cross-border forested areas connect to protected sites in neighboring Finland and Russia, forming an international conservation landscape.

• Visit Øvre Pasvik National Park in summer (June-August) for the best birdwatching and to experience its extensive old-growth pine forests and cross-border wilderness.
• Access is by road from nearby settlements in the Pasvik valley-check local access information in advance, and use marked trails and viewing platforms to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
• Take binoculars and plan for long daylight hours; many visitors miss the subtle forest birdlife and the park's valuable lichen- and moss-rich pine stands if they only pass through briefly.