Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike

Planning a winter adventure in Sweden often involves chasing the elusive Aurora Borealis, and this Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike in Norrbotten County offers just that — plus much more. While we haven’t personally strapped on snowshoes in the Arctic, we’ve gathered plenty of details from recent travelers and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What stands out are the nighttime snowshoe trek, the opportunity to see the Aurora in peaceful solitude, and the cozy Fika session around an open fire. A potential downside? The tour’s reliance on good weather and aurora activity means the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, but the experience still delivers authentic Arctic magic. This experience suits those who love outdoor adventures, wildlife spotting, and cozy, cultural moments in a remote setting.

Good To Know

• Authentic Arctic experience: Snowshoeing across lakes and forests offers genuine immersion.
• Aurora Borealis viewing: The chance to see the Northern Lights in peaceful surroundings makes it special.
• Wildlife insights: Tracks and signs of reindeer, moose, and Arctic hares add a wildlife touch.
• Full winter gear provided: Everything from overalls to snowshoes is included for comfort and safety.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Hassle-free transfers: Convenient transportation from Kiruna helps make the day stress-free.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why Choose the Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike?

This tour strikes a balance between adventure and comfort, making it suitable for travelers who want to explore the Swedish Arctic without sacrificing safety or ease. The 3.5-hour experience is well-paced, offering enough time to appreciate the landscape, take photos, and learn about the local wildlife and culture from your guide.

The highlight, of course, is the potential to witness the Northern Lights dancing overhead. While this celestial show isn’t guaranteed and depends on weather and aurora activity, the tour’s timing and location maximize your chances. Plus, the peaceful, dark environment away from city lights provides a perfect canvas for nature’s light display.

The tour also emphasizes authenticity — from hiking across frozen lakes and forests to sitting around a crackling fire with hot drinks and cookies. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the land, wildlife, and local traditions of Swedish Lapland.

What To Expect on the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Kiruna’s central area, the tour begins with a pick-up from one of four locations, making it convenient whether you’re staying at a hotel, a hostel, or near the town center. The 30-minute ride to the base in Kalixforsbron sets the tone for a scenic journey through snowy landscapes.

Once there, a safety briefing (about 15 minutes) prepares you for the snowshoe hike, which lasts approximately 1.5 hours. You’ll trek across a frozen lake and into peaceful forests, areas carefully chosen for their beauty and wildlife potential.

The hike isn’t just about covering ground; it’s about absorbing the quiet beauty of the Arctic night. Your guide, an experienced local, will point out animal tracks, explain survival techniques like finding dry firewood, and share stories about the land’s flora and fauna.

Wildlife and Nature Observation

While the Northern Lights are the main event, many reviews mention the thrill of spotting animal signs. You might find tracks of reindeer, moose, Arctic hares, or even the Ripa — Kiruna’s official bird. The guide’s knowledge helps turn each snow track into a mini wildlife lesson, adding depth to your experience.

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The Fire and Fika Experience

After the hike, everyone gathers around a traditional open fire. It’s here you’ll enjoy hot drinks, cookies, and the chance to chat about what you saw and learned. The fire-building skills and the cozy atmosphere make this the perfect wind-down, especially on a cold Arctic night.

Additional Activities and Atmosphere

Depending on the weather and aurora activity, you might spend time just relaxing and soaking up the stillness of the snow-covered landscape. The small group size (limited to 8) fosters a friendly, intimate environment where questions and conversations flow easily.

Equipment and Comfort

The tour provides winter overalls, boots, mittens, hats, and headlamps, so you don’t need to worry about packing heavy gear. You’ll want to dress warmly — think layers, a balaclava, and thermal undergarments — to stay comfortable during the hike and fire session. Travelers with glasses are advised to consider contact lenses, as the cold can fog up glasses quickly.

The Practical Side: Logistics, Pricing, and Value

Transportation and Meeting Points

The tour includes hassle-free transfers from Kiruna, which is a real plus in remote Arctic areas. Pickup options at key locations like Malmvägen 9B, Stora Coop, Best Western Hotel Arctic Eden, and Camp Ripan make it easy to join. The return journey is just as straightforward, with drop-offs at the same spots.

Duration and Timing

At 3.5 hours, this experience offers a solid chunk of Arctic adventure without feeling rushed. Check the availability for preferred start times, as they can vary. Since the tour runs until April, it’s great for late winter and early spring travelers wanting a taste of the Arctic’s long nights.

Price and Overall Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, considering the inclusion of full winter gear, guided snowshoeing, transportation, and a fire-side fika, it offers good value. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging for everyone.

Reviews and Highlights

Reviewers note the expert guidance and the atmospheric setting, praising the combination of wildlife spotting and the chance to see the Northern Lights. One review mentions, “We learned how to find dry firewood and even saw some animal tracks in the snow,” highlighting the educational aspect. Others appreciate the peaceful, undisturbed environment that makes for a memorable night under the Arctic sky.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snowshoe hike is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful Arctic experience. It’s great for people comfortable with outdoor activities and prepared for cold weather. The small group size makes it perfect for travelers wanting a more intimate, personalized experience.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or people over 70, given the physical demands and cold conditions. If you’re looking for a relaxed, educational, and scenic outing that combines outdoor activity with cultural moments, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
Not quite — the tour maximizes your chances with its timing and location, but aurora activity depends on weather and solar conditions. You’ll be in a prime spot for spotting the lights if they choose to dance that night.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including a balaclava or scarf, thermal clothing, and waterproof outer layers. The tour provides winter overalls, boots, mittens, and hats, but being prepared with extra warm layers is recommended.

How long is the snowshoe hike?
The actual snowshoe trek lasts about 1.5 hours, covering a lake and forested areas, with additional time for safety briefings, breaks, and fireside fika.

Can I join if I don’t know how to snowshoe?
Absolutely. The provided gear makes it easy for beginners, and your guide will give clear instructions. It’s accessible for first-timers with a bit of adventurous spirit.

What wildlife might I see or learn about?
Expect to find animal tracks like reindeer, moose, Arctic hares, or the Ripa bird. Your guide will help identify tracks and tell stories about the local fauna.

Are transfers included?
Yes, the tour offers transportation from and back to Kiruna at designated pickup points, making logistics hassle-free.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike in Sweden offers a well-rounded Arctic experience blending outdoor adventure, wildlife education, and cultural warmth. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate nature, quiet nights, and the thrill of possibly witnessing the Northern Lights in an undisturbed setting.

The inclusion of all gear, small group size, and cozy Fika make it a fantastic value, even if the northern lights decide to stay hidden on your night. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a curious traveler seeking a genuine Arctic adventure, this tour promises a memorable night under the stars.

In summary, if you’re eager to explore Swedish Lapland’s winter landscape with expert guidance and a focus on authentic experiences, this snowshoe hike is a fabulous choice. Just pack your warmest layers, keep your camera ready, and hope for a magical aurora display overhead.

You can check if your dates are available here: