Østerdalen

Østerdalen is a valley in eastern Norway, located mainly in Innlandet county. It forms the eastern part of the Glomma valley and follows the Glomma (Glåma) river, Norway’s longest river, through a forested and sparsely settled landscape. The valley stretches through the eastern highlands toward the flatter downstream sections and is bounded by upland areas on both sides. Its scenery combines extensive coniferous forests, river terraces, and small agricultural communities in the valley floors.

The local economy has long depended on forestry and timber processing, with hydropower development along the river playing a significant role. In recent decades, services, trade, and tourism have grown, with outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and winter sports drawing visitors. Several towns and villages along the valley serve as local centers within the municipalities of Rendalen, Stor-Elvdal, Alvdal, Tolga and Tynset.

Østerdalen has a long settlement history and developed as a corridor for timber transport and rural life in Eastern Norway. The region preserves a traditional countryside landscape with farms and cultural heritage tied to the forest economy. The Glomma river ecosystem supports wildlife and recreational fishing, notably for salmon and other species. The valley also contains or is adjacent to protected natural areas and wilderness landscapes that are popular for outdoor recreation and nature conservation.

See also: Glomma River, Innlandet, Forestry in Norway.