Bodø: Snowshoe hike with guide in Arctic wilderness

Summary

Snowshoeing in Bodø’s wild winter with a local guide

You’ll strap on snowshoes near Bodø and follow a local guide into Norway’s Arctic wilderness—crunching through silent forests, pausing for hot drinks by a fire, and sharing stories under wide northern skies. Whether you spot fox tracks or catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, it’s an experience you’ll remember long after your cheeks stop tingling.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped off the minibus just outside Bodø, boots crunching on that thick, squeaky snow you only get this far north. Our guide, Erik — big wool hat, easy grin — handed out snowshoes and poles while telling us to double-check our mittens. I fumbled with the straps (not as easy as it looks), but he helped me sort it out without making me feel like a total city person. The air tasted cold and clean, almost sharp. It’s weird how silence here feels heavier than back home — except for our boots and the odd raven overhead.

We moved into the forest, following Erik’s tracks. He pointed out some tiny animal prints zigzagging across our path (“fox,” he said, “or maybe just an ambitious squirrel”). The trees held onto their snow like frosting. At one point we stopped and just listened — no cars, no voices, just wind moving through pine needles. I didn’t expect to feel so small or so awake at the same time. My cheeks burned from the cold but it felt good, like being scrubbed clean somehow.

Halfway through, Erik found a spot sheltered from the wind and built a little fire right there in the snow. He poured us hot blackcurrant juice from his thermos (tasted way better than I thought) and passed around some chocolate. We all sat close to the flames, steam rising off our gloves. Someone tried to say “skål” in Norwegian — not sure any of us got it right but Erik laughed anyway. If you’re lucky on these trips you might see the Northern Lights; we didn’t that night but honestly, I didn’t mind much.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snowshoeing in Bodø

• You’ll get fresh air and exercise
• Enjoy snowy forests and wilderness
• Choose tour based on weather and snow
• Winter walking near Bodø

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Bodø snowshoe hike?

Yes, hotel or port drop-off is included with your booking.

What should I wear for snowshoeing near Bodø?

Dress warmly in layers suitable for Arctic winter conditions; all necessary gear like snowshoes and poles is provided.

Can beginners join this guided snowshoe tour?

Yes, beginners are welcome; no skiing experience needed but moderate fitness is recommended.

Are children allowed on this day trip from Bodø?

The minimum age is 10 years old for participants.

How many people can join each group?

The maximum group size is 15 people per booking.

Is there a chance to see the Northern Lights on this tour?

If you choose an evening hike and conditions are right, you may see the Northern Lights.

What happens if there aren’t enough people booked?

If minimum numbers aren’t met, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Does this day trip operate in bad weather?

The tour runs in all weather conditions; just dress appropriately for winter outdoors.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or port in Bodø, all necessary gear like snowshoes, hiking poles and gaiters, guidance from a local expert throughout the snowy forests or hillsides near Bodø, plus hot drinks by an open fire before heading back at the end of your Arctic adventure.