Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike

Imagine hiking across a frozen lake under the vast, starry sky of Norrbotten County, with the chance to witness the elusive Aurora Borealis dancing overhead. That’s exactly what this Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike offers—a 3.5-hour adventure combining nature, wildlife, and cultural traditions in the pristine Swedish Arctic. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour from Kiruna provides everything from snowshoes and winter gear to a cozy fire-side Fika, making it an accessible and memorable experience.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure with comfort. First, the full winter gear provided means you don’t need to pack heavy or worry about staying warm—crucial when temperatures can be well below freezing. Second, the focus on local wildlife and survival skills adds an authentic, educational layer to the experience, far from the typical tourist trap.

One point to consider: the tour is not suitable for children under 10 or those over 70, primarily because of the physical activity involved. If you’re looking for a peaceful, outdoor adventure with a personal touch in a small group, this tour hits the mark perfectly. It’s especially ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to experience the Arctic’s quiet beauty in a genuine way.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Snowshoeing across lakes and forests at night offers a true wilderness feel.
• Northern Lights Opportunity: Chance to see the Aurora Borealis, with advice to check aurora forecasts beforehand.
• Inclusive Equipment: Winter overalls, snowshoes, boots, and accessories are provided for hassle-free comfort.
• Wildlife & Nature: Learn about local animals, track footprints, and discover survival skills like fire-making.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal and engaging experience.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy Fika, a Swedish tradition, around an open fire for a warm, social end to the adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Arctic Snowshoe Experience

Starting Out: Easy Pickups and Warm Gear

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from four central locations in Kiruna—Malmvägen 9B, Stora Coop, Best Western Hotel Arctic Eden, or Camp Ripan. The 30-minute drive to Kalixforsbron takes you into the heart of the wilderness, where the real adventure begins. This self-contained approach is a real plus, removing the hassle of logistics and allowing you to focus on the experience.

Once there, you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing and be outfitted in cozy, high-quality winter gear—overalls, boots, mittens, hats, and headlamps—so you’re prepared for the cold and the dark. As many reviews point out, the provided gear is a significant value, saving you money and the effort of packing heavy winter clothing.

The Snowshoe Hike: Trekking Through Snow and Silence

The core activity is a 1.5-hour snowshoe hike across a frozen lake and into a peaceful forest. The snowshoes are well-designed, helping you distribute your weight and prevent sinking into the deep snow. This makes the trek accessible even for those with limited snowshoe experience, and the guides are adept at teaching the basics without rushing.

During the hike, your guide shares insights about local wildlife and Swedish tundra. Expect to learn how to spot animal tracks—reindeer, moose, Arctic hares, or even the iconic Ripa (Kiruna’s official bird). The chance to identify footprints in the snow adds a fun, interactive element that appeals to both kids and adults.

Wildlife & Nature: Tracking and Survival Skills

While it’s not guaranteed that you’ll see wildlife, the effort to identify tracks and trails heightens your awareness of your surroundings. The guides are eager to share their knowledge, giving you a sense of connection to the Arctic ecosystem. Some reviews mention how fascinating it is to learn about the habitat and survival techniques—like how to find dry firewood in the snow-covered forest or make a fire to warm up.

More Great Tours Nearby

Aurora Borealis: The Night Sky Show

The main highlight is the Northern Lights. You’ll be in a dark, open area away from city lights, increasing your chances of witnessing the Aurora. However, since this is a natural phenomenon, it’s wise to check aurora forecasts like Aurora Reach before booking. Even if the lights don’t perform that night, the peacefulness of the Arctic night and the chance to see stars and constellations make it worthwhile.

Photographers will find this a stellar opportunity—bring your camera and tripod for that once-in-a-lifetime shot of the bright, swirling lights. Remember, patience is key, and the guides will do their best to maximize your chances of a sighting.

Fireside Fika: Warming Up and Sharing Stories

After the hike, everyone gathers around an open fire in a traditional Nordic tipi. The ambiance is cozy and communal, with hot drinks and cookies—a cherished Swedish tradition called Fika. This moment allows you to relax, share stories, and truly appreciate the quiet beauty of the Arctic.

Many reviews highlight how much this social, warm-up period adds to the overall experience—it’s a chance to reflect on the adventure while physically warming up from the cold.

Practical Details and Logistics

This tour is designed for comfort and convenience. The duration of 3.5 hours includes pickups, gear fitting, the snowshoe hike, and the fireside Fika. The small group size (up to 8) ensures personalized attention and a less rushed experience.

The price includes all necessary winter gear, which is a significant saving, especially considering the quality of the equipment. The tour is available from now until April, aligning perfectly with the long Arctic nights that make Northern Lights viewing possible.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

Given the physical activity involved, it’s best suited for adults or children over 10 years old who are reasonably active and prepared for cold outdoor conditions. It’s ideal for those interested in nature, wildlife tracking, photography, or simply seeking an authentic Arctic adventure. Travelers who appreciate small, intimate groups and genuine cultural experiences will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Final thoughts

The Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike offers an intimate taste of Arctic wilderness—combining the magic of the Aurora with the thrill of snowshoeing in a pristine landscape. With all equipment provided, it’s accessible for most travelers, and the focus on wildlife, survival skills, and traditional Fika creates a well-rounded, memorable outing.

While the chance of seeing the Aurora depends on weather and solar activity, the overall experience of walking beneath the stars, learning about local wildlife, and warming up with hot drinks makes this a worthwhile addition to any Arctic itinerary.

This tour is best for those who crave authentic outdoor experiences, are comfortable with cold weather, and value small group interactions over large tour buses. If your goal is to see the Northern Lights in a beautiful setting while enjoying Swedish hospitality and learning about the environment, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, hassle-free transfers are included from Kiruna town to the starting point and back, making logistics simple.

What should I wear for this tour?
The tour provides winter overalls, boots, mittens, and hats, but you should dress warmly underneath with weather-appropriate clothing and layers.

Can I participate if I don’t have snowshoe experience?
Absolutely. The snowshoes are easy to use, and guides will give instructions to help you get comfortable.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour runs until April, aligning with long polar nights ideal for Aurora viewing. Remember, the Northern Lights are unpredictable, so flexibility helps.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 10 years old due to the physical nature of snowshoeing.

Will I see wildlife during the hike?
Wildlife sightings depend on luck, but the guides teach you how to identify animal tracks and trails, enhancing the experience.

What’s included in the Fika?
Hot drinks, cookies, and a warm, social atmosphere around the open fire are part of the Fika experience.

How long is the snowshoe hike?
Approximately 1.5 hours, covering a lake and forest, with plenty of opportunities to stop, learn, and enjoy the scenery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the small group setting makes it easy to connect and enjoy the adventure with others.

This Arctic snowshoe journey is a wonderful way to experience the quiet beauty of Swedish Lapland, combining outdoor adventure with cultural warmth. Whether you catch the Northern Lights or simply enjoy the tranquility of the night, it promises a memorable Arctic escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: