Hiking in Svalbard
SeasonYear-round |
Nearest cityOslo is three hours away by plane |
Duration1 day |
Skill levelBeginner to advanced |
Hike along glaciers and through ice caves in the Arctic Circle
Depending on the season you decide to visit Norway’s Arctic archipelago, be prepared to hike and explore in the midnight sun or under the Northern Lights during the polar night. Svalbard is located on the edge of the Arctic Circle — 590 miles from Norway — and is home to the world’s northernmost permanent settlement, Ny-Ålesund. The islands offer a unique opportunity to discover icy fjords, snow-capped peaks, and see the wildlife (at a distance, of course) that call the frozen archipelago “home.”
You can hike to the top of Trollsteinen and enjoy the panoramic Arctic views of the archipelago — while viewing 60-million-year-old fossils along the way — or traverse glaciers and discover ancient ice caves just outside the largest town, Longyearbyen. Longyearbyen has all of the creature comforts you need when you return from your expedition: there are numerous bars, restaurants, and hotels that will help you relax after a day of exploring. Opt for this once-in-a-life-time adventure and explore Svalbard’s hidden gems!