Snowshoeing is the simplest way to enjoy the Arctic winter on foot: wide frames spread your weight so you can walk across deep snow where boots would sink. This small-group tour, limited to fifteen, meets at 10:00 in front of the Scandic Ishavshotel on the Tromsø waterfront and takes about four and a half hours. Snowshoes and hiking poles are provided, a guide leads the route through valleys with fjord views, and a hot lunch with vegetarian options and coffee or tea is included. Vegan and gluten-free meals can be requested when booking. The walk needs a moderate level of fitness, but the pace is set by the group, and the setting of white slopes and blue light is hard to beat.
How it works: the group travels by vehicle to a quiet trailhead, puts on the snowshoes, and follows the guide for an easy-to-moderate walk with plenty of stops. The guide explains the landscape and wildlife, and the lunch is eaten at a break point. Snow suits are not mentioned on the booking page, so wear warm, water-resistant clothing and suitable hiking boots as advised.
What to know: the tour depends on snow. If there is little or no snow, the group hikes instead of snowshoeing, so check conditions if you travel in early November. Reviews span October to April. The tour needs at least two passengers or it may be cancelled, and some reviewers found it tiring at times. People with serious heart problems or medical conditions should not take part.
Pairing: the late morning departure leaves the afternoon free for Polaria or the Polar Museum, and the evening for an aurora chase. In the polar night the walk takes place in a blue twilight that is a highlight in itself.
What to expect
The experience
A guided snowshoe hike in a small group, with snowshoes, poles, lunch and hot drinks.
Best time
A snowy morning from December onwards, when the polar twilight lights the valley.
How long
About four and a half hours from the waterfront meeting point.
Tips
Wear water-resistant layers and hiking boots, request special meals when booking and check snow cover before November trips.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers who want quiet nature without needing special skills.
- Families
- Better for older children, since the walk needs moderate fitness.
- Couples
- A peaceful, scenic morning that leaves the evening free for an aurora chase.
- Pair with
- Polaria or the Polar Museum in the afternoon.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Where does the tour start?+
It meets at 10:00 in front of the Scandic Ishavshotel at Fredrik Langes gate 2. Arrive about fifteen minutes early.
What is included?+
Snowshoes, hiking poles, lunch with vegetarian options and coffee or tea. Vegan and gluten-free meals can be requested when you book.
What if there is no snow?+
The group hikes instead of snowshoeing. Check conditions if you travel early in the season.
How fit do I need to be?+
The page asks for a moderate level of fitness and no serious heart problems or medical conditions. Reviewers sometimes found it tiring.
What is the group size?+
Up to fifteen travellers, with a minimum of two for the tour to run. Smaller groups are common.