Dovrefjell is a mountain range in central Norway that forms a natural barrier between the southern regions of Norway and the area around Trondheim. As a result, it has been heavily trafficked during and probably preceding historical times. Several mountain inns were established in the middle ages to house pilgrims traveling to Trondheim, and there are even ruins of an old leprosy colony in the northern area.
The main south-north highway (E6) in Norway runs over Dovrefjell. It is a year-round highway but is sometimes closed for short periods during heavy winter weather conditions.
The natural habitat for many rare plants and animals, it has become a national park in several stages starting in 1911, when some plants were put under protection. When the railroad was built from Oslo to Trondheim in 1921, one of the marshes was reserved. In 1974, the entire range became a national park. Dovrefjell also has a stock of musk oxen, imported from Greenland in 1932.
The Dovrefjell area has now been split into two national parks:
The tallest peak in the region is Snøhetta at 2286 meters above sea level. The range provides cross-country skiing and hiking opportunities.