8 places to explore on foot, skis and snowshoes

Tromsø has plenty of beautiful places to explore in winter, both in the city and surrounding areas. Many are easy to reach and offer great opportunities for winter walks, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Here are eight of our favourites.

On foot

1. Telegrafbukta

Difficulty level: Easy

Telegrafbukta is a popular outdoor area at the southern end of Tromsøya, with a sandy beach, coastal paths and views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

In winter, the paths are ideal for a walk along the coast, and on a clear evening you may even be lucky enough to see the northern lights. You can also continue along the coastal path around Sydspissen.

Telegrafbukta can be reached by local bus from Tromsø city centre. Check current routes and timetables with Svipper before travelling.

2. Prestvannet

Difficulty level: Easy

Prestvannet is a small lake and nature reserve in the middle of Tromsøya. A walking path circles the lake, making it an easy place to enjoy a winter walk close to the city centre.

The area also connects to Tromsøya's network of cross-country ski trails, so you will often see locals skiing here during the winter.

Parts of Prestvannet may occasionally be prepared for ice skating when conditions are safe. Never assume that the ice is safe, and always check local information before walking or skating on frozen water.

Cross-country skiing

Cross-country skiing is a big part of winter life in Tromsø. The city and surrounding areas have an extensive network of ski trails, and the main trail systems on Tromsøya, Kvaløysletta, in Tromsdalen and Kroken are groomed regularly when snow conditions allow.

If you are new to cross-country skiing, you can join a guided tour or hire skis, boots and poles from Tromsø Outdoor in the city centre and explore at your own pace.

Check Sporet for maps and the latest grooming status before setting out.

1. Lysløypa Tromsøya

Difficulty level: Easy to medium

The illuminated cross-country ski trail on Tromsøya runs through the centre of the island and is one of the easiest places to go skiing close to the city.

Prestvannet and Charlottenlund are both good starting points, and the trail network offers several options depending on how far you want to ski. Parts of the route are suitable for beginners, while other sections have more hills. More experienced skiers can continue north towards Skihytta.

2. Lysløypa Tromsdalen

Difficulty level: Easy to medium

Tromsdalen has an extensive network of cross-country ski trails on the mainland side of Tromsø.

The trails take you through woodland and valley landscapes, with several route options depending on your experience and how far you want to go. Gutta på Skauen is a popular recreational area along the trail network, with facilities including a fire pit, lavvu and toilets.

3. Lysløypa Kvaløya

Difficulty level: Hard

Kvaløysletta on Kvaløya has a large network of groomed cross-country ski trails starting around Storelva.

The terrain is varied, with both easier sections and hillier routes for more experienced skiers. The area is easily accessible from Tromsø by local bus.

There are also ski trails further outside the city, including around Tønsvik and Snarbyeidet. Bus services and seasonal ski bus connections may vary, so check current information with Svipper before travelling.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoes make it easier to explore snowy terrain where walking without them can be difficult. They are a great way to experience the winter landscape at a slower pace and reach viewpoints that may otherwise be difficult to access in deep snow.

You can hire snowshoes and poles from Tromsø Outdoor or join one of their guided snowshoe tours.

Conditions can change quickly during winter, so always choose a route that suits your experience and check the weather and snow conditions before heading out.

1. Nattmålsfjellet

Difficulty level: Medium

Nattmålsfjellet is a small mountain on Kvaløya, reaching 297 metres above sea level. From the top, you can enjoy views towards Ersfjorden, Kaldfjorden and the surrounding mountains.

It is a popular choice for a relatively short winter outing, but snow and weather conditions can make the route more demanding.

The starting area can be reached by public transport, but bus services vary, so check current connections with Svipper before setting out.

2. Fløya

Difficulty level: Medium

Fløya rises above Tromsdalen and offers wide views over Tromsø, Tromsøysundet and the surrounding mountains.

You can take Fjellheisen to Storsteinen, 421 metres above sea level, and explore the mountain area from there. From Storsteinen, you can continue further towards Fløya if conditions and your experience allow. Fjellheisen also offers guided snowshoe tours from the upper station during the winter season.

The cable car may close at short notice due to strong winds or difficult weather conditions. Always check the Fjellheisen website for the latest operating information before heading there.

If you plan to continue further into the mountains, make sure you have suitable equipment and check the weather, snow conditions and avalanche forecast before setting out.

3. Rødtinden

Difficulty level: Hard

Rødtinden is an easily accessible mountain from Storelva on Kvaløya and is a popular destination for winter outings.

The route offers views across Kvaløya and towards the surrounding mountains and fjords. Although the mountain is relatively close to the city, winter conditions can make the terrain considerably more demanding.

Storelva can be reached by local bus from Tromsø. Check current timetables with Svipper before travelling.