A varied forest area that hosts a rich diversity of species
Østmarka features a mosaic of different natural habitats, dominated by spruce and pine forest types, but also includes patches of deciduous forest and various types of wetlands. A varied landscape and largely intact nature make the national park home to a great biological diversity, including endangered species such as lynx and wolf.
Two different forms of protection
Parts of the area are protected as a national park and the rest as a recreational area. The main difference between the two forms of protection is that the recreational area is more geared toward facilitated outdoor activities.
Within the national park, there is also a Zone A, which is a continuation of the former Østmarka Nature Reserve. Here, there is less facilitation and stricter rules than in the rest of the protected area. For example, cycling is not allowed due to the nature and vegetation being vulnerable to wear and tear.
Why a national park?
The national park with its recreational area was established on November 10, 2023.
The protection helps preserve species, ecosystems, and cultural heritage, while heavily impacted nature is to be restored to its natural state. In addition, the national park ensures that people have access to a highly important area for outdoor recreation—also for future generations.
The protected area is still expanding
Work is being done to explore possible expansion of the protected area and adjustments to its boundaries. This is done through the voluntary forest protection program, where forest owners themselves offer to protect their forest in exchange for compensation. You can read more about the program here: Frivillig vern av skog i Norge.
Plant and animal life
In Østmarka, you’ll find a rich diversity of nature, which gives rise to a wide range of species. From old-growth forests that host a variety of insects and lichens, to countless waterways with signs of beavers and a vibrant birdlife. Did you know that Østmarka is also home to large predators such as lynx and wolves!
Geology and landscape
When the ice disappeared from the area around 10,000 years ago, most of what would become Østmarka was under the sea, and the land gradually rose to form today’s landscape. This explains the contrast between the wave-washed hills and the ravines with sediment. Pollen analyses show that spruce became a forest-forming species in the 1400s.
History and cultural heritage
One of the purposes of protecting Østmarka National Park is to preserve cultural heritage and history. Østmarka contains a wide range of traces from past usage. Here, the sharp-eyed hiker can discover remains and memories of settlement, summer farming, travel and transport, as well as logging, timber floating, and sawmill activity.
You can read more about the topic in the fagrapporten for kulturminner og kulturmiljø.
Management and supervision
The County Governor holds the overall responsibility for managing the protected areas. Each year, the management carries out measures related to information, facilitation, maintenance, and mapping. Over time, the management will be organized through a national park board represented by politicians from the involved municipalities.