Veggen Nature Reserve in Evenes
Highlights
- Experience a protected outdoor area with southern boreal deciduous forest far to the north
- See lush grey alder forest, aspen, birch forest, scree and old cultivated land
- Explore an area rich in plant and bird life
- Follow the well-marked path further towards the trim boxes from the area by the masts
- Learn about Veggen Nature Reserve on the notice board by the parking lot
Description
Veggen Nature Reserve is a nature conservation area in Evenes municipality, protected by royal decree on 15 December 2000. The reserve covers 972 decares, and the purpose of the protection is to preserve the world's northernmost known outpost of southern boreal deciduous forest with many southern-heat-loving plant species and associated fauna.
The area is steep down towards the fjord, and in several places the forest overhangs the lake. The hillside is dominated by grey alder forest, with elements of high perennial birch forest, low-herbaceous forest and mixed deciduous forest with aspen. There are also scree, dry hills and old cultural land such as hay fields and regrowing meadows.
This is an area for those who want to experience nature with a clear character. The source text describes a rich bird life on the hillside, including spotted woodpeckers, and several plant species such as bird's nests, hare food, onion wort, hollyhock, monkfish, vanilla root, limestone seeds, hanging spike seeds and towerwort. Rich deciduous forests like this one are of great importance for biodiversity, research and education.
At the start of the hiking trail to Bukkholla and Varden Veggfjellet there are two notice boards. The board to the right has been set up by Evenes Turlag and shows trail maps and parking instructions. The board to the left tells about the Veggen nature reserve. From the parking lot, walk about 500 meters east to a private road up to the masts. From there you will find a well-marked path on to the trim boxes.
More information
- The nature reserve is protected. Vegetation, including dead bushes and trees, is protected from damage and destruction.
- It is forbidden to remove plants or plant parts from the reserve.
- Wildlife, including nesting sites and dens, is protected from damage and destruction.
- Technical interventions and littering are not permitted.
- Motorized traffic is prohibited. Take-off and landing by aircraft are also prohibited.
- The use of bicycles, horses and carts as well as horseback riding is prohibited.
- Sports events, hunting dog trials and other organized activities in the nature reserve are prohibited.
- Gathering of berries and edible mushrooms is allowed.
- Hunting and fishing are allowed according to current rules.
- The area is described as very steep down towards the fjord. Traffic requires caution.
- There are notice boards with information about the nature reserve, trail maps and parking instructions at the start.
- There are no facilities such as a toilet.