Have you just arrived in Svalbard? This hike is the ideal way to get to know the island’s unique nature and history. It offers a little bit of everything: beautiful and varied landscapes, classic Svalbard mountains, and great views over Longyearbyen.
We begin the hike in a moraine landscape before passing the remains of an old coal mine – a clear reminder of Svalbard’s coal mining history. From there, the trail climbs steadily until we reach the edge of the Larsbreen glacier. Standing here, overlooking the ice, is truly unforgettable.
The trail is steep at times and can feel exposed, but we take it at a steady pace, with breaks to enjoy the scenery. At the top, we stop for lunch surrounded by panoramic views. In winter, the sight of Longyearbyen’s lights glowing below the snow-covered peaks is especially magical.
The hike covers 8–10 kilometers with around 400 meters of elevation gain, through varied and sometimes challenging terrain. Depending on conditions, we may descend on a different route, or return the same way we came.
Physical Requirements Suitable for those with good physical fitness. Medium to demanding mountain hike in snow and uneven terrain, with steep sections and 400–750 meters total elevation gain. Some crawling must be expected. Not suitable for people that are not fit or do not have experience with hiking uphill, have back problems or claustrophobia. You must speak English. Sneakers and jeans are not accepted.
Practical Information
Included in the trip
Dress in layers – it’s the best way to stay warm. Remember: it is better to be too warm than to be too cold. And also – there is no bad weather, just bad clothing!
Pick up from your hotel at 09:30 am | Return by 3:30 pm
Guide with safety equipment
Warm lunch, coffee and tea
Necessary gear (snowshoes, headlamp etc. if needed)
Important Information
You must be able to communicate in English to join our excursions.
To ensure your safety we may refuse participation if you are not properly dressed for hiking in the conditions
Difficulty: 4 / 5 (see details below)
Participants: 2–8
Distance round-trip: 9 -11 km
Elevation gain: 750 m
Duration: 8 hours
Minimum age: 16
Bring
Warm, waterproof hiking boots (over the ankle) *
Wool base layers, windproof jacket and outdoor pants
Extra layer of clothing (warm sweater / puffy jacket)
Hat, buff and windproof mittens / gloves
Backpack (20 – 35 liters)
Water Bottle
* Muck Boots can be rented for 100 NOK
Cancellation Policy
•22 days prior to arrival give a full refund •8-21 days prior to arrival gives a 50% refund •0-7 days prior to departure gives no refund
Svalbard is beautiful, but also unpredictable. For your safety, our guides may need to move activities to another day or replace them with a different trip if conditions do not allow the original plan. In rare cases, if the weather makes it impossible to run an activity at all, it may be cancelled. Should this happen, you will of course receive a full refund for the affected trip. Your safety and comfort always come first, and we’ll do our best to make sure you still have a memorable experience.
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