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Backcountry skiing in Norway

Experience surreal runs above the Arctic Circle - enjoy the best of backcountry skiing in Norway!
Backcountry skiing in Norway Brochure
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A backcountry adventure like no other

Supreme alpine terrain with no one in sight

Imagine sailing among soaring icebergs carving through untouched powder snow beneath the midnight sun. That’s what skiing in Norway is all about. Substantial snowfall combined with cold temperatures and low humidity create light, dry, and powdery snow, with excellent glide and control. Let your guides lead you to thrilling descents and pristine powder stashes. 

A beautiful day after a fresh snowfall in Reine, Lofoten Islands, Norway.

Arctic wonders enjoyed in unique ways

The journey itself is an adventure

  • Sailing through Norway’s majestic fjords allows you to soak in the scenery, witness wildlife, and experience the serenity of the Arctic.

Midnight sun

  • Constant daylight during the summer allows more time for skiing & exploration – you can even hit the slopes in the middle of the night.

Travel made easy

  • Getting deeper into the Norwegian wilderness takes some planning. Leave the logistics to us and spend time making memories.
A man and a woman skiing uphill in Lyngen with the ocean in the distance.

Best backcountry skiing destinations in Norway

Svalbard

  • Svalbard offers long, challenging descents on glaciers and remote mountains. Due to the remoteness, most backcountry skiing here involves multi-day expeditions with endless ski touring options.

The Lyngen Alps

  • The Lyngen Alps are a haven for freeriders with a wide variety of lines to choose from. Expect long descents with plenty of lift-accessed runs in the area for warming up or adding variety.

Lofoten

  • Lofoten offers a combination of backcountry and lift-accessed terrain. Ski touring allows access to remote areas and incredible views, while lifts provide options for warming up or enjoying groomed runs.
Back country Ski touring in Norway, Lofoten
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What do people think of Backcountry Skiing in Norway?
Bob Hall

Romain is exceptional in his knowledge and disposition, He read our group perfectly and pushed jus hard enough!

Betsy E.

Tom Wolfe coordinated a fabulous ski and sail trip to Svalbard. It was an amazing trip that took into consideration the goals and capabilities of each of the guests, while keeping safety top of mind. Tom is not only a professional guide, he’s a really nice guy too. I look forward to skiing with him (and the other guides) again in the future.

Devon Fuller

Was a blast skiing with Tom!! Tom is a serious and very professional guid, I would be more than happy to take another trip with him. Thanks for all the fun turns.

Rolph de Groot

Our trip to Svalbard was a fantastic experience. The accommodations on the boat where very comfortable with great food being served every day. The views from the boar and ski touring where extraordinary as was the wild life we encountered. Exped Tribe organized the whole trip smoothly and the crew used was professional as well as fun to hang around with.

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Meet the guides in the area

Lionel Lemonchois, mountain guide
5
Lionel Lemonchois
A professional racer-skipper and exceptional boat preparer, Lionel’s carrier spans solo oceanic races, non-stop around the world races, and many more. He is also certified as an offshore commercial yacht master, contributing significant skills in both crew management, safety and medical emergency chapters. As the co-founder of Boreal Adventure Sailing and skipper of VARUNA, he’s dedicated to sharing his passion for sailing and nature.
Brian Farquharson, mountain guide
5
Brian Farquharson
Brian is a professional mountain and climbing guide, a ski teacher, an Arctic Guide and RYA sailing teacher that has been running Ski & Sail tours for 15 years. In the last 23 years, he has become the lead guide for some amazing companies including the BBC, Pioneer Productions London, Amazon Prime and the top heliskiing operations worldwide. When he’s not leading tours, he tours Europe lecturing about avalanche awareness and rescue!
Andres Scherrer, mountain guide
5
Andres Scherrer
Andres has made his dream a profession—he has been a qualified IFMGA mountain guide for 13 years! Sponsored by Mammut, he carries numerous expeditions all around the world and continuously discovers new terrain around Iceland, Norway, Japan and Alaska. When he’s not skiing, he works as a profiler for the Snow and Avalanche Research Institute in Davos and gives avalanche courses for all levels of skiers every year.
Paul Degonda, mountain guide
5
Paul Degonda
Paul travels the world year-round. He spends the winter season ski touring, mountaineering, freeriding, heliskiing, ice climbing and snowshoeing across the world, and during the summer he guides for mountaineering, sport climbing, bouldering, trekking and biking.
Picture of tom wolfe
5
Tom Wolfe
Tom Wolfe is an ACMG/IFMGA-certified mountain guide who’s been guiding since moving to Canmore in 1995, the place he calls home. His winters consist of a mix of ski guiding at lodges, heli-ski operations, and remote backcountry destinations throughout western Canada. During the warmer months, Tom spends his days on water. He is a certified Paddle Canada Moving Water Canoe Instructor and Wilderness Canoe Guide.
5
Chris Gnieser
Chris Gnieser left a comfy university position for the vagaries of guiding a number of years ago. Research expeditions, tour guide engagements or private adventures have lured him to the Arctic and Antarctic at least for some time of each year ever since 1985. He holds degrees in Geography, Geology and Cultural Anthropology and a Ph.D.
5
Massimo Candolini
Massimo has been a Mountain Guide since 2003 and a passionate mountaineer since childhood. His love for winter and skiing has led him to scale countless peaks in the Alps, where he has honed his skills and expertise. As a guide, he loves sharing his knowledge and passion for mountaineering, inspiring others to embrace the beauty of the mountains. Today, his love for snow and ice takes him to the polar regions, where he is on a relentless quest for the perfect excursion.
5
Rory Dixon
Originally from the UK, Rory is now the owner and manager of Summit Ski Val d’Isère in the French Alps. He is a certified mountain guide and a ski instructor, and apart from living and working in the French Alps, his big passion is going to some of the remotest corners of the Earth, like Svalbard, and leading expeditions there.
5
Gjert Grødal
Gjert is part owner and a devoted full-time mountain guide at Breogfjell. Based in Sogndal, Gjert focuses on guiding and courses, primarily within the local region. With a wealth of experience, he is unwaveringly committed to prioritizing safety. Renowned for his kindness, Gjert is beloved by everyone he encounters. As a respected member of the alpine mountain rescue and Red Cross avalanche groups, he proudly holds the prestigious certification of an IFMGA Guide. Join Gjert for an adventure where expertise meets genuine warmth and care.
5
Even Fridén Melhus
Meet Even, your expert guide and part owner at Breogfjell. Hailing from Sogndal, Even is your go-to professional for ski guiding, climbing, and glacier expeditions across Norway. Renowned for his passion, professionalism, and robust skiing skills, Even is an integral member of the alpine mountain rescue and Red Cross avalanche groups. With aspirations to become an IFMGA Mountain guide, he brings a wealth of experience and dedication to ensure your adventure is not only thrilling but also safe and memorable.
5
Maria Llamosa
Maria loves sailing and being out in nature, breathing in the fresh air, and cleansing her mind. As a crew member of Jolly, planning, timing and safety are key for her, as is making her guests feel at home on board while cooking exciting and exotic food.  She was born in Colombia, loves to dance and socialize, and has a passion for sailing in the northern latitudes.
5
Sol Idland
Sol is a highly experienced ski guide from the southern region of Norway. She’s known for her warm smile, infectious energy, and love for the outdoors that she loves to share with others. Sol is currently in the final stages of finishing her IFMGA qualification, which will be a testament to her dedication and expertise. In addition to her guiding experience, Sol has spent countless hours exploring landscapes of her homeland, and she loves to share knowledge of the regions’s geography, flora, and fauna with others.
5
Ulrik Møller
Born in Oslo, with roots in the west of Sunnmøre, Ulrik started sailing many years ago and has thousands of miles behind the helm, both as the captain of Jolly and on other boats. He also has all the necessary safety training, certificates, and experience to take you safely to various destinations, creating great memories and good times for all on board.
5
Bjørn Kruse
Bjørn is a dedicated IFMGA/IVBV mountaineer who works full-time guiding and leading courses in the mountains. With his unparalleled ability to find the best snow, he is a valuable team member to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. Beyond his guiding expertise, Bjørn is a talented writer and has published several guidebooks on mountain climbing and skiing. When not skiing, he loves to explore new and exciting activities, and his latest passion is the Romsdal Academy, where he focuses on sharing knowledge about mountain safety. Bjørn and his wife Ida run a mountain lodge in the beautiful western part of Norway.
5
Petter Westgaard
Originally from Narvik in Northern Norway, Petter now calls the Western part of the country his home, where he is surrounded by endless opportunities for skiing and hiking. He is a highly experienced outdoor professional, now in the final stage of his IFMGA/IVBV certification. Throughout his travels to Japan, Canada, and the Alps, Petter has explored the outdoors through skiing, kayaking, glacier tours, climbing tours, and hiking, gaining invaluable knowledge and skills. As a guide, Petter is dedicated to creating a personalized and meaningful experience for his clients, that allows them to reconnect with the nature.
5
David Lindgren
David is an accomplished individual with over 20 years experience in the field, highly skilled in mountaineering and skiing. He holds the prestigious title of IFMGA/IVBV guide, as well as being an ISIA ski instructor and a respected SKF/UIAA climbing instructor. David's boundless energy and love for the outdoors means that a day off for him involves even more skiing, hiking, or climbing - preferably all in one day. Despite his busy schedule, David is a devoted family man and a successful writer, having co-authored books about couloir and steep skiing in Norway together with Bjørn Kruse.
5
Christoph Hofer
Originally from the mountains of Austria, Christoph thrives in winter wonderlands and has a passion for skiing and mountaineering. Apart form being an adrenaline junkie, he’s also a mechatronics and industrial engineering student in Innsbruck. One of his favorite locations is Svalbard, where he guides trips but also studies the Arctic risk and safety management—because nothing says “thrilling career path” like navigating polar bear encounters and frostbite prevention! Christoph is not just a terrific guide to have by your side—he’s also an explorer, scholar, and just an overall great person to have around.

Frequently asked questions about backcountry skiing in Norway

  • Norway is a fantastic skiing destination for all types of skiers, and here’s why:

    • Options for All Levels: Norway boasts resorts and terrain suited for beginners, intermediates, and experts. Many resorts have gentle slopes and ski schools for learning, while backcountry areas offer challenging off-piste adventures.
    • Long Season and Reliable Snow: Thanks to its location, Norway has a long ski season stretching from November to May. The cold temperatures ensure consistent and reliable snowfall.
    • Breathtaking Scenery: Skiing in Norway is about more than just the slopes. Imagine carving fresh tracks down mountains with stunning views of fjords, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks.
    • Après-Ski Activities: After a day on the slopes, there are plenty of ways to relax and enjoy the Norwegian culture. Sample delicious local cuisine, soak in a warm outdoor bath, or explore charming villages with Viking heritage.
  • Norway offers incredible skiing opportunities around the fjords.

    The mountains surrounding the fjords are a haven for backcountry skiers. They offer epic descents with dramatic fjord views as the backdrop. Also, several ski resorts are located near the fjords in Norway, offering groomed runs with stunning fjord vistas. You can enjoy the comfort and amenities of a resort while still experiencing the majestic scenery.

    For adventurous skiers, ski touring allows you to explore the fjordland at your own pace. Traverse pristine valleys, ascend snowy peaks, and enjoy the tranquility of the winter fjords.

  • Backcountry skiing in Norway has a slightly shorter window compared to resort skiing due to avalanche risks. Here’s a breakdown of the suitable months:

    Safe Season

    • December to April is generally considered the safe window for backcountry skiing in most areas of Norway.

    Prime Months

    • March and April are the prime months for backcountry skiing across Norway. By this time, the days are getting longer, providing more daylight for your adventures. You’ll also typically find a reliable snowpack that’s well-suited for descents.

    Shoulder Season

    • May can be an option for experienced backcountry skiers who are comfortable managing variable snow conditions. Avalanche risk can be higher in May, so it’s crucial to have advanced avalanche safety knowledge and equipment.

    If you’re planning on skiing beyond the Arctic Circle, like in Svalbard, May is the perfect time to visit.

  • Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world. But, if you make smart choices, backcountry skiing in Norway can be a fantastic and unforgettable adventure without breaking the bank.

    First off, by carefully planning your trip and researching budget-friendly options for transportation, accommodation, and food, you can bring down the costs considerably.

    Also, shoulder seasons (early December or late April/May) may offer slightly cheaper options for flights and accommodation compared to peak winter months.

    Finally, if you already own your own avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel), backcountry skis or splitboard, and appropriate clothing, you can avoid significant gear rental costs.

    Never save money on safety, though, and make sure to hire a guide for your first skiing or ski touring adventure in Norway.

  • Backcountry skiing in Norway is not recommended for beginners. 

    Norway’s backcountry areas often involve steep mountains, glaciers, and unpredictable weather conditions. These factors require strong skiing skills, excellent navigation abilities, and knowledge of avalanche safety. 

    Also, avalanches are a significant danger in Norway’s backcountry. You’ll need proper training in avalanche rescue techniques and the use of avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel) to navigate this terrain safely.

    If this is your first time skiing in Norway, make sure to go with a guide. They’ll assess your skill level, help you choose the right tracks, and keep you safe on the slopes.

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