On the Ice – Glacier Snowshoe Hike at Longyearbreen - Arctic Footsteps

About

Longyearbreen is a glacier that has shaped the valley behind Longyearbyen for thousands of years.
It is visible from town - and yet unknown to many visitors who pass beneath it. 

After pickup in Longyearbyen, we begin our hike through the frozen river terrain below the glacier.
The ground tells its own story, stones and gravel deposited by retreating ice, shapes that only nature can make.
Your guide will share insights into glacier dynamics, Arctic geology, and what climate change means for everything you see around you.

When we reach the glacier's edge, we put on our snowshoes and begin the ascent onto the ice.
Here, the landscape opens up. Above you are the mountains that frame Longyeardalen.
The pace is calm and controlled - this is not a tour for speed, but for being truly present.

At the top of the moraine, a panorama awaits over Longyearbyen and the fjord.
Take your time. Look around. Let your eyes travel across the tundra, the mountains, and the fjord below.

Keep an eye out along the way - Arctic foxes and reindeer are not uncommon companions on the way up.

The tour ends with a careful descent from the glacier, snowshoes removed, and a hike back toward Longyearbyen.
Warm drinks and cookies await as a well-deserved finish to a unique Arctic experience.

Itinerary
- Departure from Longyearbyen with hotel pickup.
- Short drive to the trailhead.
- Begin hike through moraine terrain towards the glacier, with stops for geological and historical insight from your guide.
- Reach the glacier base - snowshoes on - and ascend onto the ice.
- Explore the glacier surface and pause at the panoramic viewpoint overlooking Longyearbyen and Adventfjorden.
- Warm drinks and cookie break on or near the glacier.
- Descend carefully from the glacier, snowshoes off, and hike back to the trailhead.
- Return to Longyearbyen

What's included
- Professional Arctic guide with local knowledge and safety equipment including polar bear deterrent.
- Snowshoe.
- Warm drinks and cookies.
- Search and rescue insurance.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Longyearbyen.

Key practical info
- Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours (including hiking, glacier time, and breaks).
- Distance: Approx. 5–7 km round trip, depending on conditions.
- Season: November - May (snow and ice dependent).
- Minimum age: 14 years (accompanying adult required).
- Group size: Small groups for a personalized experience.

What to bring
Warm base layers (wool or synthetic), mid‑layer fleece or wool pants and sweater, thin gloves to wear under mittens, water bottle, camera, and a small backpack.

Safety and conditions
This trip is highly dependent on weather, ice, and visibility. Your guide may adjust the route or distance at any time for safety reasons; no refunds apply for route changes. Participants must be in good physical condition and comfortable with long‑day Arctic conditions. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance including Arctic rescue coverage.

Language requirement
As your safety is our top priority, clear communication is essential. To join one of our excursions, it is required that you can speak and understand English. This ensures you can follow the guide's directions and fully enjoy your experience.