Bardufoss: Snowshoe hike to Norway’s National Waterfalls

Key Points

• Duration: The tour lasts 3 hours, combining hiking, sightseeing, and a cozy campfire experience.
• Location: It departs from Rundhaug Gjestegård in the Bardufoss region, with a scenic walk to Målselvfossen, Norway’s national waterfall.
• Activities: Includes snowshoeing, viewing the frozen Målselvfossen waterfall, and preparing traditional Norwegian hotdogs over a campfire.
• Guide Expertise: Led by an experienced guide affiliated with the local area, sharing stories about the Arctic wilderness, local salmon, and the waterfall’s history.
• Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Availability & Flexibility: Available from November 1st to April 30th, with full refund options if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience the Frozen Majesty of Målselvfossen on Snowshoes

The snowshoe hike to Målselvfossen offers a chance to witness Norway’s iconic waterfalls in their winter splendor. Starting at Rundhaug Gjestegård, this 3-hour tour takes you through the pristine Arctic landscape, where the frozen waterfalls create breathtaking scenery. The tour is designed for those eager to break their own trail in unspoiled wilderness, with an easy 30-minute hike that can extend if fresh snow is abundant.

What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to learn about the waterfall’s history and the local salmon from a knowledgeable guide. The guides are local, bringing an authentic touch and deep familiarity with the area. This tour suits outdoor lovers, winter explorers, and those curious about Norway’s Arctic environment, though it is not suitable for children under 12 or visitors with mobility challenges.

How the Tour Begins at Rundhaug Gjestegård and Snowshoe Fitting

The adventure begins at Rundhaug Gjestegård, a white-painted hotel visible from the roadside in the village of Rundhaug. Participants meet in the hotel’s reception area, where a brief safety briefing takes only 10 minutes. After that, the staff helps with snowshoe fitting to ensure everyone is comfortable and prepared.

Once fitted, the group is driven to the surrounding forests, where the real journey starts. The guide leads you through scenic woodland trails, gradually making your way towards the Målselvfossen waterfall. The drive and walk together build anticipation for the stunning views awaiting at the waterfall itself, which might take longer if there is a lot of fresh powdery snow.

Guided Walks Through the Arctic Forests and Scenic Views

The guided walk to the waterfall lasts about 30 minutes, with additional time if snow accumulates. The trail winds through Arctic forests, offering picturesque views of snow-covered trees and frozen landscapes. The landscape’s tranquility and crisp air make this part of the journey very peaceful.

The guide shares insights about the area’s natural environment, the significance of the waterfalls, and local stories. This knowledge enriches the hike, making it more than just a walk — it becomes a chance to connect with Norway’s Arctic wilderness on a deeper level. Along the way, travelers are encouraged to pause for photos and enjoy the silence of the winter forest.

Approaching Målselvfossen and Viewing the Frozen Waterfalls

Upon arrival, the guide lights a campfire near the waterfall, giving everyone a chance to observe the frozen Målselvfossen from a safe distance. The waterfalls showcase dramatic ice formations, creating striking scenery that photographs beautifully in winter light.

While keeping a safe distance, visitors can enjoy the view of the waterfalls in their icy form, a rare sight that highlights Norway’s winter artistry. The guide explains how the waterfall was formed 10,000 years ago and shares stories about the local salmon, emphasizing the natural history of the area.

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Preparing Traditional Norwegian Hotdogs Over the Campfire

The highlight for many is the campfire experience. Here, participants prepare traditional Norwegian hotdogs (pølse) over the open flames, served with bread and typical condiments. This casual meal offers a taste of local winter traditions, providing warmth and comfort after the hike.

To complement the hotdogs, the tour serves hot gløgg, a traditional winter drink, along with coffee. This cozy break allows everyone to relax, chat, and soak in the peaceful winter atmosphere surrounding the waterfall, making it a memorable moment of the tour.

The Guide Shares Stories of the Arctic Wilderness and Waterfall

Throughout the experience, the local guide shares insights into the Arctic environment, including the importance of salmon to the region and the formation of Målselvfossen. These stories add depth to the journey, making it not just about scenery but also about understanding Norway’s natural heritage.

The guide’s expertise and local knowledge help visitors appreciate the landscape’s history and ecological significance, enriching the overall experience. Their storytelling style is engaging yet informative, making the tour suitable for curious minds interested in Arctic Norway.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Equipment, and Group Size

The tour departs from Rundhaug Gjestegård, which has parking available in its lot. Participants should wear warm outdoor clothing and good, comfortable shoes suitable for winter hiking. The guide provides snowshoes, but travelers should bring additional outdoor clothing, a camera, and water to stay hydrated.

The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small group experience with plenty of personal attention. It runs from November 1st to April 30th, making it accessible during Norway’s prime winter months. The group size and expert guidance make this a safe, enjoyable adventure.

Timing and Pacing of the 3-Hour Experience

The itinerary includes a brief safety briefing, about 1 hour of guided walking with scenic views, a 45-minute break for hotdogs, drinks, and photos, followed by another 45-minute walk back to the starting point. The pacing is relaxed enough to enjoy the scenery and stop for storytelling, but not so long as to become tiring.

The walks are designed to accommodate winter conditions, with manageable terrain and the option to extend if needed due to snow. The overall timing allows for a balanced mix of activity, relaxation, and cultural experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour and Who Might Not

This snowshoe adventure is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, winter scenery lovers, and those interested in Norwegian culture and natural history. However, it is not suitable for children under 12, individuals with mobility issues, wheelchair users, or travelers with respiratory issues or low fitness levels.

Participants should be prepared for cold weather, and the tour encourages dressing in warm clothing and good hiking shoes. Since alcohol and drugs are not allowed, it stays a family-friendly, safe environment.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Arctic Snowshoe Hike to Norway’s Iconic Waterfalls

This 3-hour tour offers a genuine opportunity to experience Norway’s winter landscape, with guided hikes to the frozen Målselvfossen waterfall and a cozy campfire meal. The small group size and local expertise of the guide create an intimate and informative setting, perfect for those eager to learn about Arctic nature while enjoying physical activity.

While the itinerary is straightforward, the scenic views, stories, and culinary experience make it a well-rounded adventure. The tour’s timing within the winter months ensures spectacular ice formations and a peaceful wilderness experience.

This tour provides a memorable glimpse into Norway’s natural beauty and winter traditions, with an emphasis on safety, comfort, and authentic storytelling. It’s an excellent choice for outdoor lovers and anyone wanting a manageable yet immersive Arctic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 12 years due to the physical nature and outdoor winter conditions.

What should I bring?
Participants should wear warm outdoor clothing, bring comfortable shoes, and carry a camera and water. The guide provides snowshoes, so no need to bring your own.

What is included in the experience?
The guided snowshoe hike, campfire with hotdogs, hot gløgg, and coffee are included. The meeting point is at Rundhaug Gjestegård.

How long is the hike?
The hiking part lasts about 30 minutes to an hour each way, depending on snow conditions, with an overall duration of approximately 3 hours.

Can I book the tour on short notice?
Yes, you can reserve with flexible payment options and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making last-minute bookings possible if availability allows.

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