Nordenskiöldfjellet Summit Hike

Nordenskiöldfjellet Summit Hike – Ready to stand on top of Longyearbyen?

Are you looking for a challenging day hike? Then this is it.

Nordenskiöldfjellet is the tallest mountain in the area of Longyearbyen (1051 m), and on a clear day it offers spectacular panoramas over Longyearbyen, Isfjorden, surrounding glaciers, valleys, and rugged mountain peaks.

We begin our journey in historic Sverdrupbyen before heading into a dramatic Arctic landscape. Early in the tour, we tackle a 45-minute uphill climb through a narrow valley where a small river runs down between the slopes. In this valley, little auks nest during summer, filling the air with life and sound. Once we get to the top of that first plateau, we enter the moraine of the Platåbreen glacier, walking through a fascinating glacial landscape shaped by ice and time.

As we continue upward, we follow the side of the glacier along a small ridge, gradually gaining height. The final section before the summit is once again steep — but when the views suddenly open up in every direction, you’ll know the effort has been worth it.

At the top, we enjoy a warm lunch with unforgettable views over Longyearbyen and Isfjorden. There is also a small cabin on the summit behind which we can seek shelter on bad weather days.

In May and June, snow may still cover parts of the mountain. In summer, we keep an eye out for Svalbard’s surprisingly rich flora and fauna. Did you for example know that Svalbard is home to around 170 species of flowering plants? With some luck, we may spot the resilient Svalbard poppy, famous for thriving in harsh Arctic conditions. We might also encounter Svalbard reindeer along the way. Throughout the hike, your guide will share insights into the region’s geology, glaciers, permafrost patterns, and unique ecosystems — including the striking polygonal ground formations found on the plateau.

We walk through untouched, pristine terrain on a less-traveled route — a true Arctic wilderness experience that demands good fitness and a sense of adventure.

On our way back, we take a different route when possible.

• Difficulty: 5 / 5 (see details below)
• Participants: 2–8
• Distance round-trip: 10 -14 km
• Elevation gain: 950 m
• Duration: 9 hours
• Minimum age: 16

Physical Requirements

Suitable for those with very good physical fitness. Demanding full-day hike in rocky and uneven terrain, with up to 950 meters total elevation gain.

Included

• Pick up from your hotel at 9:00 am | Return by 6:00 pm
• Guide with safety equipment
• Warm lunch, coffee and tea
• Necessary gear (hiking poles, spikes) if needed

Bring

• Warm, waterproof hiking boots (over the ankle) *
• Wool base layers, windproof jacket and outdoor pants
• Extra layer of clothing (warm sweater / puffy jacket)
• Hat, buff and windproof mittens /gloves
• Backpack (20 – 35 liters)
• Water Bottle

* Muck Boots can be rented for 100 NOK

Important

• You must be able to communicate in English to join our excursions.
• To ensure your safety we may refuse participation if you are not properly dressed for hiking in the conditions