This species is listed as Least Concern, since it has not been declining by more than 25% in the last ten years, its European extent of occurrence (EOO) is larger than 20,000km² and its population size is probably larger than 10,000 adult individuals.

Occurs in several separate areas: in Spain (Cantabrian Mountains., Sierra de la Demanda, Sierra de Gistral (Lugo), Sierra de Cebollera), the Pyrenees, Andorra, France (Massif Central, Cévennes, Auvergne and Vosges), the whole alpine area from France to Slovenia, Czech Republic (Sudeten), Slovakia and Poland (Tatra), Romania (Carpathians, Retezat Mountains), Serbia, FYR of Macedonia (Sar Planina, Jakupica Planina, Pelister Massif), Albania, northwest Greece (Varnous Mountains), northwest England (Cumbrian Mountains), Scotland (Perthshire). In the Alps 1,200-2,400 m, in England and Scotland above 500 m. This is a European endemic species.

A local species, restricted to (semi-) natural areas. It is reported extinct in the Republic of Ireland and Ukraine. Strong declines in distribution or population size of more than 30% have been reported from Romania. Declines in distribution or population size of 6-30% have been reported from Austria, Serbia, United Kingdom (data provided by the national partners of Butterfly Conservation Europe).

The Mountain Ringlet inhabits mountainous areas that are snow-covered in winter. It is found on damp grasslands and rough vegetation, often in the shelter of a slope or woodland edge. The female lays its eggs on various grasses and sedges, including fescues (Festuca spp.), Mat-grass (Nardus stricta) and Heath-grass (Danthonia decumbens). The caterpillar hibernates twice. It completes the first larval instar before hibernating the first time. By the end of the summer it reaches the fourth instar before hibernating again. The following year, it pupates in summer and the butterfly emerges. The Mountain Ringlet is a very variable butterfly with many local and regional sub-species and forms. Habitats: alpine and subalpine grasslands (64%), heath and scrub (16%), dry siliceous grasslands (8%).

Although this species shows a decline in a part of its European range, it is not believed to face major threats at the European level.

All butterflies are collected to some extent, but only for the extremely rare species it can be a problem and the trade in Europe is generally at a low level compared to other continents. There is no specific trade information for this species.

In Croatia, Slovakia and the Czech Republic, the species only occurs in protected areas. No specific conservation actions are needed at a European level, but in countries where the species is in decline important habitats should be protected and managed. The effects of conservation actions should be monitored by a Butterfly Monitoring Scheme.