About
Glacier hike is one of the most unique experiences Svalbard can offer. How often can you tell the story of when you have been hiking on a glacier with snowshoes or crampons?
Just on the edge of Longyearbyen, we will step directly from the familiar surroundings of the town into an Arctic landscape shaped by ancient ice, snow and time. Depending on month and weather we will use snowshoes or crampons. These will make it easy to walk across deep snow or ice, letting you reach viewpoints and glacier edges that would otherwise be inaccessible.
The ice is anything but uniform. White, grey, sometimes blue colours are in place. Especially during summer you’ll see small rivers cutting deep grooves, and columns of ice shaped by meltwater and pressure. These features will form and change with the season. During the winter we may be lucky to have the northern lights accompany us.
We will be walking in a small group, led by an expert Arctic guide, into this frozen landscape of snow-covered valleys, icy ridges, and glacier formations. We will enjoy a hot drink and a snack in the heart of the wilderness. Keep your camera ready as you may spot wildlife like Svalbard reindeer along the way.
* Snowshoeing, crampons, route and glacier choice may vary depending on weather and snow conditions.
5 highlights for the glacier hike
- Glacier hike with no technical hiking skills needed. Suitable for beginners.
- Walking with snowshoes or crampons on an Arctic glacier
- Unique glacier scenery with beautiful views
- Learn about glaciers, Arctic nature and the Svalbard environment
- Led by expert Arctic guides
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience hiking on a glacier?
- No prior experience required. You will need an average fitness level.
Dress warmly in layers, with windproof outer clothing.
This is a hike with no technical climbing skills needed.
Difficulty level: 3 out of 5
- You need to have an average physical fitness level as you will be walking up the mountain in uneven terrain. While snowshoes will prevent you from sinking in deep snow, the hike can be challenging. This is a beginner-friendly trail though and we will be walking in small groups.
Security information
- Your safety is very important to us. You need to follow the guides instructions. The weather can be unforeseen in Svalbard and we reserve the right to change the route or destination according to what is safest for you and the group.
Practical information
- Duration: 5 hours
- Participants minimum: 2
- Participants maximum: 8
- Difficulty level: 3 out of 5
- Age limit: 12 years old
- Season: January 2nd to December 30th
- Pick up time: 10:00
- Return time: 15:00
Included
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel
- Coffee/tea and snacks
- Transport to/from destination
- Equipment (Crampons or snowshoes depending on season)
- Other equipment to borrow during dark season: Headlamp
- Guide with safety equipment
- SAR – Search and Rescue insurance
Not included
- Accommodation
- Clothing and boots
- Private travel and cancellation insurance
You need to bring/put on:
- Warm wool base layers (sweater and pants)
- Extra layer of clothing (Sweater and pants)
- Shell pants (water and windproof)
- Hiking boots and warm socks (merino wool) (Available for rent – contact us for info)
- Hat/beanie, buff, windproof mittens/gloves
- Sunglasses (from Marts to May)
- Down/warm jacket
- Small backpack with buckles (25L to 40L)
- Water bottle
- Camera
Language and Clothes
You need to be able to speak and communicate in English due to safety reasons.
We can deny participation on the tour if you are not properly dressed for hiking and/or requirements above have not been fulfilled.
Do you have any questions
Email: booking@backyardsvalbard.com
Phone: +47 988 02 283
We look forward to a reel Arctic adventure with you.
Backyard Svalbard
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