Tromso: Snowshoeing Valley Hike, Fjord Views & Wildlife Lunch

Summary

Walk snowy valleys near Tromso for fjord views and wild silence

You’ll walk through Arctic valleys near Tromso with snowshoes (or hike if there’s not much snow), guided by a local who knows every bend in the trail. Expect wild silence broken by laughter, simple lunch overlooking fjords, and small moments—like spotting animal tracks or sharing coffee—that stick with you long after you’ve warmed up again.

What’s the experience like?

We met outside the Scandic Ishavhotel, boots squeaking on the sidewalk, and I already felt out of place with my borrowed mittens. Our guide, Erik, greeted us with that calm Norwegian way—no rush, just a nod and “Ready?” The van ride out of Tromso was quiet except for someone’s thermos clicking open. I kept watching the light shift over Kvaloya’s hills; even in winter it’s not quite dark or bright—sort of blue-grey. Erik pointed out where reindeer sometimes cross the road (we didn’t see any but he swore they’re real). The snowshoeing started awkwardly—I almost face-planted right away—but after a few steps it got easier, like walking on soft cake.

The valley was muffled and still except for our crunching steps and someone’s laugh when they lost a pole. I remember how the air smelled sharp—like cold metal—and every breath felt cleaner than what I’m used to back home. At one point we stopped so Erik could show us animal tracks in the snow (fox maybe?), and he told a story about his grandmother picking cloudberries here in autumn. I tried to say “cloudberry” in Norwegian—didn’t even come close. We climbed up a little ridge and suddenly there was this view: fjord below, mountains folded around it, everything quiet enough to hear your own heartbeat if you stood still.

Lunch was simple but honestly perfect—a sandwich and hot coffee from Erik’s backpack while we sat on foam mats looking at the water below. My toes were numb but I didn’t care; something about eating outside in that cold makes food taste different. Someone asked if we’d get photos (yes—they email them later), which is good because my phone battery gave up halfway through. On the way down, my legs were jelly but nobody minded going slow. We talked about how weirdly peaceful it feels to be somewhere with no traffic noise at all—just wind and boots on snow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snowshoeing and hiking in Tromso countryside

• Start from Tromso city center
• Drive to west coast countryside
• Put on snowshoes or hike
• Walk up small mountain or valley
• View wildlife and Arctic nature
• Reach summit and have lunch
• Guide takes photos to share

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Tromso snowshoeing tour?

No, pickup is from Scandic Ishavhotel in Tromso city center—not individual hotels.

What happens if there isn’t enough snow for snowshoeing?

If there’s little or no snow, the tour becomes a regular hiking trip instead.

Are meals or drinks provided during the hike?

Yes, lunch plus coffee or tea are included during the outing.

How many people are usually in each group?

The group size is small—up to eight people for a more personal experience.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available if requested at booking.

Are photos included or do I need to bring my own camera?

Your guide takes photos during the tour; web-size images are emailed free afterward.

How long does it take to reach the hiking area from Tromso?

The drive from Tromso city center to the countryside takes about 30–45 minutes depending on conditions.

Are there toilets along the route?

A gas station stop is made before heading into nature; otherwise toilet options are limited to outdoors.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Scandic Ishavhotel in Tromso city center, all necessary gear like snowshoes and hiking poles (or just boots if there’s no snow), a packed lunch with coffee or tea—even vegetarian or gluten-free if you ask ahead—and souvenir photos sent by email after your hike through those Arctic valleys before returning downtown.