14 Places for the best hiking in Tromso Norway

Tromsø, also known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is a city in northern Norway that boasts some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. 

Tromsø is a small city by most standards but by far the largest city in northern Norway.

It’s ideal for those who love the outdoors, both residents and visitors alike and is surrounded by natural beauty.

I had the incredible opportunity to spend some time living in Tromsø as part of our year of travel before we went to the Lofoten Islands. 

Personally, I think hiking in Tromso is one of the best things to do in Tromso, no matter the season. 

Despite limited daylight hours, we made the most of the outdoors and explored some of the many Tromsø hiking trails. We even went hiking in Tromsø on our wedding day!  

During our stay, we were spoiled for choice when it came to hiking trails. From snow-capped peaks and deep valleys to frozen lakes and sparkling waterfalls, Tromsø had it all. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best hiking trails in Tromsø, including their difficulty levels, lengths, and the stunning scenery you can expect to encounter along the way. I’ll also share some tips for hiking in Tromsø, including what to wear, what to bring, and how to stay safe on the trails.

So whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge or a beginner who wants to explore the beauty of northern Norway, there’s a hiking trail in Tromsø that’s perfect for you.

14 Best hiking in Tromsø

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

1. Smørstabben 

One of the best hikes in Tromsø is the Smørstabben hike on Kvaløya. In fact, we liked this so much that we ended up hiking this trail on our wedding day! 

This hike is pretty easy with only a few short sections that are steep. 

Along the way, you will walk alongside Storvatnet and the river, head up through a forest, and finally reach Smørstabbvatnet before climbing to Smørstabben peak, which sits at around 420 meters above sea level. 

The hike is known for its peacefulness, and we did not encounter anyone else on the trail both times we hiked it.

Smørstabben translates literally as “stick of butter,” although I’m not sure it has much to do with the trail! 

There is a small parking space for Smørstabben, so make sure you park well to leave space for any other hikers who may turn up. 

The parking lot is just off the 7768 to the right before you arrive at Grøtfjord beach (where we had our wedding ceremony), and it takes around 45 minutes to drive from Tromsø.

Smørstabben hike stats

• Distance: 7km
• Duration: 1.5-3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy-moderate
• Elevation: 400m
• Smørstabben trail map

2. Brosmetinden hike

One of the top hikes in Tromso that I highly recommend is Brosmetinden. This was the one we almost did for our wedding day but it’s a bit more popular and well-known than Smørstabben so we opted for the quieter route.

The trail offers stunning views of the ocean and neighbouring islands throughout the entire hike, making it a perfect option if you’re seeking a short and easy hike that still delivers impressive scenery. 

Starting from the south ridge, the path gradually inclines and gets steeper as you approach the summit. However, the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking and worth every step. The panoramic views from Brosmetinden are stunning, and you can turn back at any point if you need to.

The trailhead is located only an hour’s drive from downtown Tromso, and the route leading up to the hike is incredibly scenic. Along the way, you’ll pass through fjords and valleys with tall, pointy mountains that plunge into the sea. 

Grotfjord is one of the fjords you’ll come across, and it’s worth stopping by the stunning white-sandy beach. This is where we did our wedding ceremony, so it holds a special place for us. 

The parking lot offers an excellent view of the top of Brosmetinden, and the trail leading up to it is clearly marked, so you won’t have any trouble finding your way. 

• Distance: 8 km 
• Duration: 2 hours
• Difficulty: easy-moderate
• Elevation: 525 m
• Brosmetinden trail guide

3. Blåvatnet, Lyngen Alps

Discover the beauty of Blåvatnet a Tromsø hike in the Lyngen Alps that’s become well-known in recent years and is considered on of the best hikes in Norway.

It’s easy to see why since it’s absolutely stunning and reminiscent of some of the beautiful hikes in Canada that I’ve been lucky enough to do. 

This hiking trail near Tromso leads you to a serene, intensely blue lake nestled amidst towering mountains, offering breathtaking views that you simply can’t miss. 

The trail to Blåvatnet is mostly flat or slightly inclined, with the final stretch requiring some boulder climbing (but nothing too challenging!). 

Along the way, you’ll follow red markers that guide you to this fairytale-like destination, ensuring that you don’t lose your way. 

• Duration: 2 to 4 hours
• Distance: 9 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation gain: 223 m

4. Nordtinden 

Nordtinden, standing at 640m, is the highest mountain easily accessible from the north side of Kvaløya, with stunning views of the Skulsfjord Valley, Kvaløya, and the Arctic Ocean. 

The hike starts from Skulsfjord village near the horse stables, which is just a 30-minute drive from Tromsø’s city center so it’s a closeby option for hiking around Tromso.

The trail begins with a 2.5 km walk through the forested Skulsfjorddalen Valley, followed by a gentle 2.5 km ascent up the eastern slope of Nordtinden, leading to the summit. 

This 10 km hike is quite hard with a little bit of uneven terrain. It does, however, offer spectacular views. 

• Duration: 3- 4 hours
• Difficulty: hard
• Distance: 10 km
• Elevation: 630 m

5. Steindalsbreen glacier Tromso

If you’re seeking a Tromso glacier hike experience, then the Steindalsbreen glacier near the Lyngen Alps hike is the perfect choice for you. 

This moderately difficult hike, and one of the best treks in Norway, leads you through the Steindalen valley. You’ll not only get great views, but you can learn about the area’s wildlife, flora, and history from signposts along the way.

For the most part, the path is level until you approach the moraine ridge, where it becomes steeper before levelling off just before the glacier’s base. 

Upon reaching the glacier, take a moment to appreciate its tiny crevices and varying shades of blue. Glaciers absolutely fascinate me and it’s not every day that you get this close to such an awe-inspiring natural wonder!

• Duration: 4 to 5 hours
• Distance: 12.2 km
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 523 m

6. Toppur til store Blåmann 

Store Blåmann is the highest and most challenging peak in Kvaløya to climb.

While many of the Tromso hikes listed here are suitable for hikers of all levels, the Topptur til Store Blåmann hike is only recommended for highly experienced hikers with scrambling experience and no fear of exposure or heights. 

The trail involves a lot of rock climbing and scrambling, making it a physically demanding Tromso hike. 

Although your hike begins on easy terrain, it quickly becomes rocky and, at one point, requires navigating a sheer, vertical rock wall (not recommended for those with a fear of heights!).

Fortunately, the last section of the trail is relatively easy, especially after completing the rock-climbing portion, and the stunning views make the climb well worth it. 

However, only attempt this hike if you have the necessary equipment, and experience, and have checked weather conditions, as the rocks can be extremely dangerous when wet or slippery.

• Duration: 3 to 5 hours
• Distance: 6.3 km
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation gain: 1,004 m

7. Tromsø Sherpa Steps & Fløya hike

When visiting Tromso, a trip to the mountain Floya is a must. The Floya hike, Tromso is one of the best hikes in the city, providing panoramic views of the city, Kvaløya Island, and the fjords. 

There are a couple of different routes to take to get to the top, each offering a unique experience.

While taking the easy way out and opting for the Fjellheisen cable car is an option, those seeking a longer Tromso hike should walk up to the top via the Tromso sherpa steps. 

The first and most popular route is up the Sherpatrappa or “Sherpa Staircase,” a 1,003-step staircase built several years ago by Sherpas from Nepal. 

The climb up the sherpa steps Tromso has put together is quite steep but shorter than a more gradual ascent, and the stone steps make the journey much easier. This loop trail, which can be completed year-round, takes you to the top of Floya and back down through a valley.

If you’re looking for the easiest route of all, take the four-minute cable car ride up to the top and then walk the remainder of the way to Floya’s summit. It’s this route that you might consider the ‘Tromsø cable car hike’. 

On your way up, you’ll get a spectacular view of Tromsø city and Kvaløya Island, with its beautiful mountains surrounded by fjords. This is the perfect place to enjoy the Midnight Sun during the summer months (mid-May to mid-July) and the Northern Lights during winter (mid-September to mid-April).

Once at the top, treat yourself to a well-deserved beer, coffee, tea, or soda at the cafe/restaurant while you admire the famous Tromso view. 

The cafe and restaurant at the top of the Tromsø mountain cable car also serve dinner and lunch, so you can make a day of your hike and enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning scenery. 

• Elevation: 671 meters above sea level
• Distance: 14 km both ways (if not taking a cable car)
• Time: 2-3 hours (less if taking the Fjellheisen cable car)

8. Buren hike Tromsø

Located near Kvaløya, the Buren hike in Tromsø is considered moderately challenging. 

Although popular, hikers can still find solitude during quieter times of the day.

On this hike, you’ll get beautiful views of Ersfjorden with its impressive and dramatic landscape and steep, rugged peaks. 

• Distance: 7.4 km
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 740 m

9. Sørtinden and Trehørningen

For those looking for a quick and easy hike with rewarding views, Sørtinden and Trehørningen are perfect choices. 

Both hikes take approximately 30 minutes each way and are accessible from the road to Skulsfjord. 

Sørtinden, in particular, is quite popular, so expect to see several people on the trail. Both trails are especially popular for mountain biking. 

However, if you want clearer views, it’s recommended to visit the smaller summit a few hundred meters west of the main summit. 

Both hikes offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, making them great choices for a quick excursion.

10. Guratinden Tromso

If you’re looking for a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path hike, Guratinden is the perfect choice and is one of the best hikes around Tromso. 

It’s on the west of Nordtinden and Guratinden requires a bit more effort to reach as the second half of the trail is unmarked and requires careful navigation.

However, the stunning ocean views and the chance to see free-roaming sheep and reindeer make the journey well worth it. 

The hike starts at the same point as Nordtinden, but instead of walking north through Skulsfjorddalent, the trail turns west up the slope toward Guratinden. 

The solitude and lack of crowds on this hike make it an ideal choice for those seeking a more peaceful and immersive experience in nature.

• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: moderate
• Distance: 9 km
• Elevation: 650 m

11. Rødtinden hike

If you’re looking for a challenging hike with stunning views in Tromsø, the Rødtind trail is definitely worth considering. 

This mountain, which stands at 1040 meters, is the tallest peak in the Kvaløya range, and the hike to the top is not for the faint of heart.

The Rødtind trail begins in Kattfjordeidet, a small village just outside of Tromsø. From there, you’ll follow a well-marked trail that winds its way up the mountainside. The trail is quite steep, and you’ll need to use your hands in some sections, but it’s nothing too technical. Just make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks.

As you ascend the mountain, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. 

• Duration: 2 – 3 hours
• Distance: 4.8 km
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation gain: 427 m

12. Nattmålsfjellet

Nattmålsfjellet is a small mountain on the island of Kvaløya that offers a rewarding Tromsø hiking experience and a stunning view of the surrounding fjords. With two different ways to hike it, this mountain is a must-visit for hikers of all levels in Tromso.

The more popular hiking route for Nattmålsfjellet is via the Ersfjord side of the mountain. 

Although the path is somewhat steep, the loop trail takes you up and around Nattsmålsfjellet before leading you back down to where you started. 

The climb is definitely worth it, as you will be treated to a magnificent view of the fjords from the top.

On the other hand, the Kattfjordeidet route is a much easier trail that takes you up the other side of the mountain. 

The path is well-marked and not steep but can be rocky and muddy, especially after rain. Nevertheless, this route offers a pleasant and peaceful hike with equally impressive views.

From the top of Nattmålsfjellet, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the fjords Ersfjord and Kaldfjord. Although this mountain is relatively small, the views are grand, and it’s easy to understand why it’s a popular destination for hikers in Tromso

Whether you choose the easier or the more challenging route, hiking Nattmålsfjellet is an excellent way to explore the beauty of Tromso’s natural landscape. It is easiest to hike to this mountain from the Kattfjordeidet side, as it is not as steep, but both routes offer an unforgettable experience.

• Elevation: 297 m
• Distance: 4 km 
• Duration: 1 hour 
• Difficulty: Easy-moderate

13. Ørnfløya

For those seeking an easy and accessible hike near Tromso, Ørnfløya in Sommarøy is a perfect choice.

Sommarøy is about an hour drive away from Tromso and is perfect for year round hiking. 

Despite being more like a hill than a mountain, Ørnfløya still offers amazing views that make the hike worthwhile. And, arguably, one of the best hikes Tromso has to offer.

From the top, you can admire the stunning scenery of the small fishing village of Sommarøy, the islands of Hillesøy, Senja, and Håja, and other smaller islands and reefs as well as the bridges that connect them.

The hike to Ørnfløya is relatively easy, with an elevation gain of only 325 feet. It is a great option for hikers of all ages and abilities, and the well-marked trail makes it easy to navigate. 

In fact, it is one of the best hikes near Tromso that offers beautiful scenery without the need for strenuous hiking.

For those looking to make the most out of their hiking experience, Ørnfløya can be easily combined with Hillesøytoppen, another nearby peak. The two hikes offer a good mix of scenery and difficulty, making it an excellent day trip option.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Sommarøy besides hiking too!

• Elevation: 150 meters above sea level
• Distance: 4 km
• Duration: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy

14. Hillesøytoppen

Hillesøytoppen is a small but stunning mountain also in Sommarøy about an hour outside of Tromsø. 

While the walk-up is somewhat steep, the path is well-marked and not too intimidating for hikers of all skill levels. To reach the peak, start your hike from the youth center on Hillesøy. 

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of small bays with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

You’ll also have an impressive view of the vast ocean and the characteristic sharp mountains of the island of Senja. 

For a less steep descent, take the path to the left that leads straight down to the ocean. From there, turn left again and head towards the houses on Sommarøy before returning to your car.

As you drive out to the island of Hillesøy, you’ll experience the beautiful shoreline and pass by charming fishing villages and small beaches.

If you’re looking for hiking near Tromso it’s a great trail to go.

• Difficulty: Easy 
• Elevation: 211 m
• Distance: 4 km 
• Duration: 1 hour 

Guided Tromso Hiking Tours

For those who are new to hiking or are unfamiliar with the trails in Tromso, a guided hiking tour can be an excellent option. 

Not only will you have the company of an experienced guide, but you’ll also get to experience the stunning nature of Tromso in a safe and enjoyable way.

During the winter months, many guided hiking tours provide snowshoes and poles as part of the package, so you don’t have to worry about renting equipment separately. 

This makes it easy for beginners to get started and enjoy the snowy landscapes without having to worry about purchasing expensive gear.

Moreover, joining a guided hiking tour can also be a great way to meet other like-minded travellers and make new friends. The guides are knowledgeable about the local surroundings and can offer insights into local culture and history.

Whether you are interested in a leisurely hike or a more challenging trek, there are many different guided hiking tours available in Tromso to suit all levels of experience and fitness. 

Hiking with huskies

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors of Norway, joined by a team of friendly and eager Alaskan huskies on a half-day hike experience from Tromsø. 

Hike through breathtaking Arctic landscapes, accompanied by a few huskies by your side, and take in stunning views of flower-filled meadows, majestic fjords, and snow-capped mountains.

Enjoy a locally-sourced, campfire-cooked Norwegian lunch and indulge in delicious chocolate cake, before meeting adorable husky puppies and some of the top-trained huskies back at the base. 

This Tromso hiking tour includes pickup and drop-off from the centre of Tromso and a traditional campfire lunch in the wild or back at the base. 

Book this tour

From Tromsø: Guided Husky Snowshoe Hike and Husky Camp Visit

Exploring Tromsø’s beautiful nature during winter is an incredible experience, especially when you join a guided hiking tour. 

One of the most popular tours in Tromso is the husky camp hike, where you’ll go snowshoeing on Kvaloya near Tromso and get to meet huskies!

You’ll head out on an easy hike with a guide who’ll lead you through the Arctic wilderness and help you discover the beauty of Tromsø’s winter landscapes.

One of the highlights of the tour is getting to meet 200 huskies and their adorable puppies at the husky camp for the dog sledding tours. 

You’ll also get to indulge in a homemade chocolate cake and hot drink while taking in the breathtaking views (weather permitting). 

If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’ll still get to enjoy your snack around an open fire at the husky camp upon your return.

Check prices & book this tour

Tromsø: Snowshoeing in Scenic Landscape

If you’re looking for an unforgettable hiking experience in Tromso, look no further than this snowshoe guided hiking tour. 

The tour provides you with a magical view of the mountains and fjords, all while walking and playing in the snow. Whether you prefer a flat landscape or a small mountain for a better view, the trail can be customised for you.

You’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment, including snowshoes and poles as well as extra gloves if needed. 

Book this tour & read the reviews

From Tromsø: Small Group Hiking Tour to Brosmetinden

If you’re looking for an adventure that will bring you closer to Norway’s natural beauty, then this small group hiking tour of Brosmetinden from Tromsø is for you. 

One of the highlights of this tour is the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch with a homemade sandwich, pastries, and drinks while taking in the stunning views from the top of Brosmetinden. 

This tour includes hiking equipment such as a sitting pad, hiking poles, and a hiking backpack, as well as round-trip transportation from Tromsø. You’ll also receive souvenir photos sent by email after the tour, so you can have lasting memories of your adventure.

Book this tour here.

Important information before you go hiking in Tromso

Hiking is a wonderful way to explore the natural beauty of Tromsø, but it’s important to be well-prepared to ensure your safety and enjoyment. 

The Norwegian Mountain Code provides a useful starting point for planning and carrying out your hike. 

Before embarking on your journey, it’s important to research the trail and consider what you need to have in your backpack – remembering the 10 essentials. 

Mountain hiking season in Tromsø

The hiking season in Tromsø typically starts in June and lasts until October, but this can vary depending on the snow conditions in the mountains. It’s important to check the conditions before embarking on your hike.

For us, despite there being some snow, we hiked into November as there was not much snow and no avalanche risk. If you are hiking in Tromso winter season, be sure to take the necessary precautions. 

Some lower peaks on the outside of Kvaløya, facing towards the ocean, can be snow-free and dry up to two months earlier than other hikes.

What to pack for hiking in Tromsø

When hiking in Tromsø, it’s essential to bring extra clothing to stay warm and dry in case of changing weather conditions. 

Extra socks and a change of clothes can also be beneficial to prevent hypothermia. Gloves and headwear take up minimal space in your backpack and can provide crucial warmth, even in summer months. 

Good footwear and either hiking boots or hiking shoes are essential, as most hikes feature varied terrain, including gravel, mud or boggy areas, and slippery surfaces. 

What to pack for this hike depends on what season you’re hiking in.

• Check out my day hike packing list here.
• If you’re hiking in summer you should pack sunscreen, sunglasses, layers, water and bug spray as well as everything in the 10 essentials for hiking list.
• Here is what to wear hiking in hot weather
• Check out this post on the best leggings for hiking or what to wear hiking in summer for more details and my gear recommendations.
• If you’re hiking in winter after the snow has started falling you’ll need microspikes at the very least. If there is a lot of snow you will probably need snowshoes.
• You should also take plenty of layers including a fleece layer, a puffy insulated jacket and a wind and waterproof outer layer. Hats and gloves are also necessary as well as a good backpack to keep everything in.
• You should also pack water and some snacks too to keep you going as they’re part of the 10 essentials for hiking!
• Planning a hiking date? Check out what to wear on a hiking date but still look cool.

Weather conditions

The weather in the Tromsø region is highly localised and can change rapidly. 

Even if the forecast predicts sunshine and warm temperatures, it’s wise to be prepared for sudden weather changes. 

Wind and cloud cover can cause a significant drop in temperature, especially at higher elevations. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast using sources such as Yr.no, but be prepared for different scenarios as these sources may show different forecasts.

Transportation

Many hikes and walks in Tromsø are conveniently located near the city centre and can be reached easily by bus. 

However, some hikes require more planning, as there may be limited bus connections, especially on weekends. 

Before embarking on your hike, make sure to check the public transport timetables carefully to avoid being stranded without transportation. 

Troms Fylkestrafikk offers updated timetables for all public transport in the region, including buses, ferries, and express boats, and their travel planner is a useful tool for checking your transportation options.

Daylight and Darkness

The Tromsø region experiences a significant variation in the number of daylight hours throughout the year. 

During the midnight sun season, which lasts from the middle of May until the middle of August, there is sunlight 24 hours a day, making it possible to hike in the evening or even at night. 

However, from the middle of August, the daylight hours gradually decrease, and it gets darker throughout the autumn until you reach no official sunrise in mid-December. 

Therefore, if you do decide to hike in late fall and winter, you must bring a headtorch, as well as a reflective vest and/or wristband, to ensure your safety during your hike.

Where to stay in Tromso

We got married in Tromsø and spent quite a while researching places for our friends and family to stay for the weekend of our wedding.

The places we picked out as the best accommodation in Tromsø are:

• Blu Radisson Hotel: Where we stayed for a few nights. Right near the water with great views
• Smarthotel Tromsø: We’re fans of Smart hotel for budget-friendly prices and everything you need for your trip. We’ve stayed at the one in Oslo twice now and one of our friends stayed here. It’s one of the better options for cheap hotels in Tromso.
• Thon Hotels: There are two Thon hotels in Tromso, the Thon Hotel Polar and Thon Hotel Tromsø.
• Clarion Hotels: Again, there are two of these. The Clarion Hotel The Edge is right on the water and has a sky bar, while Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora has a rooftop hot tub and the building is pretty!
• Scandic Ishavshotel: Picturesque location with great views of the sea from some rooms.

Camping in Tromsø

If you’re visiting Tromsø in summer a great way to save money in Norway is to camp for your accommodation. You can either bring camping gear with you or rent it from Tromsø outdoors.

Then, you can camp anywhere you want in Tromsø as long as it’s not on privately owned land (e.g. someone’s garden unless you have permission).

Remember to pack away everything you take with you and leave the area better than you found it. Don’t make a lot of noise and cause disturbance either.

Getting around Tromso

Getting around Tromso is pretty easy. It’s a small city with not much traffic and is pretty easy to navigate. If you’re not renting a car, you can use the buses to get around the city and out towards some of the nearby mountains. 

However, if you’re a keen hiker, I would recommend renting a car as the bus schedule outside of Tromso city is quite limited. 

Buses in Tromso

The main island of Tromsø is quite small but there may be times you don’t want to walk from place to place. In this case, the best way to get if you haven’t hired a car is by bus.

The Troms billet mobile app is a must for visitors and locals in Tromso. It means you can buy your bus ticket in advance without needing to deal with cash. 

You can also look up bus timetables which are super handy as you’re going from place to place.

There are some district buses running to Kvaloya, but there are very few departures. So if you want to head out of Tromsø city and go some hiking in the mountains on Kvaloya, you should rent a car.

FAQs on hiking Tromso Norway

Final thoughts on the best hiking in Tromsø

Tromso, Norway is a hiker’s paradise with stunning mountains and beautiful scenery.

One of the best hikes is the Smørstabben hike on Kvaløya, which is an easy hike with only a few steep sections. Another popular hike is Brosmetinden, which offers stunning views of the ocean and neighboring islands. The Blåvatnet hike is another must-do, leading you to a serene and intensely blue lake nestled amidst towering mountains.

Before heading out on these Tromso hiking trails (and any others), always check the weather forecast, including the avalanche danger if you’re visiting Tromso in winter.

If you’re looking for more things to do in Northern Norway, be sure to check out these guides to hiking in Lofoten Islands and all my Norway travel guides.

Last Updated on September 13, 2023 by Hannah