The Langsua National Park was established in 2011 and represents an extension of the former Ormtjernkampen National Park. In addition, 6 previously existing and 4 newly established nature reserves are connected to the national park. The protected area lies between the regions of Valdres in the west and Gausdal in the east.
Unique subalpine landscape
The Langsua National Park is characterized by subalpine spruce and birch forests, treeless mountain landscapes and extensive moor areas. The ridges reach a height of 1686 m in the north at the summit of Skaget. It can be climbed from Storeskag on a family-friendly route and there are great, expansive views from the summit. Active alpine and pasture farming is practiced in the peripheral zones of the protected areas.
Activities and accommodation
The Langsua region offers wonderful nature experiences and outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking and skiing. In late winter (from approximately mid-February to Easter) back country ski routes are marked, and in summer hikers will find an extensive network of marked and unmarked trails and paths. The local fell administration (norw. fjellstyre) of the municipalities of Gausdal and Øystre Slidre maintains several hunting lodges in the area, which are open to everyone. The Norwegian Hiking Association DNT also has huts in Langsua National Park and the surrounding area where you can stay overnight.
Great biological diversity
In the region of Langsua National Park and the surrounding protected areas there are valuable natural types and ecosystems such as wetlands and bogs, primary coniferous and montane birch forests. At Ormtjernkampen lies one of the last virgin forests in Norway, where plants, animals and microorganisms can develop naturally without human influence.
Rare and endangered species
Langsua National Park is of great importance for a number of rare and threatened species. Among the plants, this applies above all to various types of sedges, including: Carex laxa and the thread sedge (Carex lasiocarpa), the colorful louseweed (Pedicularis oederi) and the bearded bellflower (Campanula barbata). The wetlands provide critical habitat for rare birds of prey such as the hen harrier and wading birds such as the whimbrel, snipe and marsh sandpiper. Rare mammals that can be found in Langsua National Park include lynx and wolverine.