Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike

The Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike offered by Kiruna Husky is a captivating way to explore the Swedish Arctic night. Spanning 3.5 hours, this tour combines the thrill of snowshoeing across frozen lakes and through peaceful forests with the chance to catch a glimpse of the elusive Aurora Borealis. Starting from Malmvägen 9B—the new Kiruna Lapland Tourist Center—it welcomes small groups limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate experience. With an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 4 reviews, this tour is highly regarded for its friendly guides, authentic activities, and inclusive winter gear.

While the Northern Lights viewing depends on weather conditions and aurora forecasts, the tour offers plenty of other memorable moments. Even if the sky does not light up with the Aurora, hikers get to explore a lake and a forest, searching for animal tracks and perhaps spotting reindeer, moose, or Arctic hares. The experience includes hassle-free transfers, warm winter overalls, boots, mittens, and hats, and a cozy Fika session around an open fire, making it a well-rounded Arctic adventure suited for those eager to enjoy nature’s tranquility.

Key Points

• Duration of 3.5 hours with a flexible start time based on availability
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a quieter experience
• Includes winter gear such as overalls, shoes, mittens, and hats—no need to pack heavy
• Opportunity to see the Northern Lights if conditions are favorable, with guidance on checking aurora forecasts
• Hike across a frozen lake and forest, with wildlife tracking and nature insights from guides
• Concludes with a warm Fika around an open fire, enjoying hot drinks and cookies

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transport in Kiruna

This tour begins with a pickup from central Kiruna, with four convenient options: Malmvägen 9B, Stora Coop, Best Western Hotel Arctic Eden, or Camp Ripan. The transport takes about 30 minutes to reach the base in Kalixforsbron, where the adventure unfolds. The pickup is scheduled at the start time, but it may occur up to 10 minutes late to accommodate all guests. Note that pickup is not available from the Icehotel or other locations outside Kiruna town.

The journey itself provides a chance to settle into the Arctic atmosphere before the hike begins, setting the scene for an authentic outdoor experience.

Snowshoe Equipment and Winter Attire

The tour includes all necessary winter gear, such as winter overalls, boots, mittens, hats, and headlamps, ensuring comfort and warmth in the Arctic cold. The snowshoes are designed to help you walk across deep snow without sinking, making the hike accessible even in fresh, powdery conditions.

It is recommended to dress warmly with layered clothing, a balaclava or scarf, and to consider contact lenses if you wear glasses, as fogging can be an issue in winter gear. The guides are experienced and will advise on the best way to stay warm and safe during the hike.

The Arctic Snowshoe Trail and Wildlife Spotting

The Hike takes you across a frozen lake and through a peaceful forest, offering scenic views of the snowy landscape. Guides share insights about local wildlife, including how to find and identify animal tracks such as those of reindeer, moose, or Arctic hares.

Even if the Northern Lights don’t appear, the natural surroundings alone make this outing worthwhile. The guides also teach survival techniques, like how to find dry firewood in the snow, which adds an educational element to the outdoor adventure.

The Aurora Borealis Experience and Forecasting Tips

The core highlight of this tour is the possibility of seeing the Aurora Borealis dancing in the Arctic sky. The guides recommend checking aurora forecasts like Aurora Reach to gauge the likelihood of a sighting. The tour’s timing aligns with the polar night period, which extends until April, promising long, dark evenings ideal for Aurora viewing.

Keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so luck plays a role. The guides will do their best to find a clear sky but cannot guarantee a sighting; however, the experience of snowshoeing under starry skies remains special regardless.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cozy Fire and Swedish Fika After the Hike

Following the snowshoe adventure, the group gathers around an open fire in a traditional Nordic tipi. Here, everyone can relax and warm up while enjoying hot drinks and cookies—a classic Swedish Fika. This moment offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on the experience and share stories in a cozy setting under the Arctic stars.

The Fika session is included in the tour, adding a comforting and social element to the outdoor activity. It’s an authentic taste of Swedish culture, making the trip more than just an outdoor excursion.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off with pickups at four locations in Kiruna, then moves to the base in Kalixforsbron after a 30-minute drive. The safety briefing lasts about 15 minutes, setting expectations and providing essential safety tips. The snowshoe hike itself lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering scenic terrain across a lake and forest.

After the hike, there’s a 45-minute break for hot beverages, snacks, and camp activities, including wildlife tracking and fire-making lessons. The return journey mirrors the outbound trip, with a final pickup at the base and drop-offs at the original locations.

Equipment, Safety, and Group Size

The tour is designed to be accessible and safe, with all winter gear provided. The small group size of up to 8 participants ensures personalized guidance and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for wildlife observation and enjoying the Arctic environment without crowds.

Safety is a priority, and guides instruct on survival techniques and fire safety. The snowshoeing activity is suitable for those prepared for winter conditions but not necessarily for children under 10 or people over 70, as indicated by the age restrictions.

Flexibility and Booking Options

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour date. The reserve now, pay later option allows travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment, adding convenience and peace of mind. The tour operates in English and requires weather-appropriate clothing to be brought along.

Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike in Kiruna: Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike provides a well-rounded Arctic adventure with the chance to see the Aurora Borealis, explore scenic snowy landscapes, and learn about local wildlife. The inclusion of winter gear, small group sizes, and cozy Fika sessions make this a comfortable and authentic experience.

While the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed, the combination of nature, wildlife, and cultural activities ensures a memorable outing regardless of the sky’s display. This tour suits those eager to enjoy the tranquility of the Swedish Arctic and learn about life in the tundra in a relaxed, guided setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years, mainly due to the winter conditions and activity level.

What should I wear for the tour?
It’s recommended to bring weather-appropriate clothing, including layered attire, a balaclava or scarf, and contact lenses if you wear glasses. The tour provides winter overalls and gear to keep you warm.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if done up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility allows for adjusting plans if weather forecasts or personal schedules change.

Where does the tour start, and what if I’m staying outside Kiruna?
The tour starts at Malmvägen 9B in Kiruna. Pickup is not available from outside Kiruna town, including the Icehotel.

What is included in the tour fee?
All necessary winter gear, a 1.5-hour snowshoe hike, wildlife and nature talks, and a Fika session around the fire are included. The tour also covers transfers to and from Kiruna.

How likely am I to see the Northern Lights?
While the tour offers the opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis, its appearance depends on weather and solar activity. Checking aurora forecasts can help improve your chances.

This review captures the core details of the Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike by Kiruna Husky, highlighting its mix of outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and comfort. It offers a genuine Arctic experience tailored for small groups and nature enthusiasts eager to enjoy the Swedish winter.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby