Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park

Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park covers northwestern Spitsbergen and includes glaciers, mountains, fjords, and marine waters in the Arctic region. The area combines land and sea habitats within a large protected zone.

The park contains remains of 17th-century whaling stations, including the Smeerenburg settlement. German weather stations were later built during the Second World War in the area.

The park serves as a key research site for scientists studying Arctic ecosystems and geological processes. This work takes place in one of Earth's northernmost regions and contributes to our understanding of the polar world.

Visiting requires careful planning and specialized boat tours from Longyearbyen. Summer months offer the best conditions for wildlife viewing and landing opportunities.

The park houses the Troll and Jotun hot springs along Bockfjord. These are the northernmost known natural hot springs on Earth's landmasses.

Location: Svalbard

Inception: 1973

Website: http://dirnat.no/nvspitsbergen

GPS coordinates: 79.58333,11.50000

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:03