Kvitnes snowshoe hike: Northern Lights and bonfire

Snowshoe through polar night, watch for the aurora, warm up at the bonfire

A 3-hour guided snowshoe hike through Kvitnes in winter darkness, with a chance to see the Northern Lights and a traditional bonfire gathering. Your guide shares stories of local culture and history as you trek through snow-covered trails lit only by headlamps, then gather around a crackling fire for warm snacks from Kvitnes Gård: a Norwegian tradition called Bålkos.

The experience

The hike starts in the dark, which changes everything. You strap on snowshoes and headlamps and move through the quiet of the polar night, hearing only the snow crunching under your feet. The guide leads you through Kvitnes on trails that look nothing like they do in daylight, and as you walk, they share stories about the region's history and culture. The stillness of winter at night creates a completely different atmosphere from a daytime trek. There's no rush, no crowds, just the landscape and the sound of your own movement.

If the Northern Lights appear, you'll see them from the trail. There's no guarantee, but the darkness and the open sky work in your favor. Whether the aurora shows or not, the hike ends at a bonfire where you gather with the group around the fire. Kvitnes Gård provides warm snacks and drinks. This is Bålkos, the Norwegian tradition of coziness and connection around a fire. You'll spend time here warming up, eating, and hearing more about the region before heading back.

Snowshoes and poles are provided. The hike suits all fitness levels, and children as young as 12 can join. Your guide speaks English or German, so the stories and history come through clearly. The whole experience runs about three hours, which gives you time to hike, watch the sky, and sit by the fire without the night becoming too long.

What’s included

• Snowshoes and poles.
• snacks and warm drinks from Kvitnes Gård.
• live guide in English or German.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 18:00

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Under 12: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish and German

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcome

Operated by WANDERMAT

Is this one for you?The hike starts in Kvitnes and you arrange your own transport there, so it works well if you're staying in the area without a car or prefer not to drive at night. The three-hour timeframe fits into an evening, leaving your daytime free for other activities around Bodø.

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and German.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights on this hike?

The Northern Lights depend on clear skies and solar activity, which neither the guide nor the weather can guarantee. The hike happens in the polar night when conditions are right for aurora, and you'll be outside watching for hours, but sightings are not promised. The hike is worth doing for the snowshoe trek and the bonfire even if the lights don't appear.

Do I need snowshoe experience to join this hike?

No experience is needed. Snowshoes and poles are provided, and the guide will show you how to use them. The hike is suitable for all fitness levels, so the pace and terrain are designed for people trying snowshoeing for the first time.

What is Bålkos and what snacks are served at the bonfire?

Bålkos is a Norwegian tradition of gathering around a fire for warmth, food, and connection. Kvitnes Gård provides warm snacks and drinks specific to the region as part of the experience, though the exact menu varies. The focus is on traditional comfort food that pairs with sitting by the fire in winter.

How do I get to the starting point if I don't have a car?

The tour operates in Kvitnes near Bodø. Arrange your own transport to the meeting point, or check with the operator about pickup options when you book. Many visitors arrange a taxi or rental car for the evening.

What should I wear for a three-hour snowshoe hike at night?

Dress in warm layers: thermal underwear, a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a waterproof outer jacket and pants. Bring warm gloves, a hat, and insulated boots. The bonfire provides warmth, but you'll be outside in the cold for most of the hike, so dressing for winter conditions is essential.