Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike

Imagine spending an evening under a canvas of stars, walking across snow-covered lakes and through quiet forests, all while waiting for the elusive Northern Lights to dance overhead. That’s essentially what the Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike in Norrbotten County offers. Hosted by Kiruna Husky, this tour combines the thrill of snowshoe trekking with the magic of aurora borealis viewing, all set in one of Sweden’s most pristine and unspoiled landscapes.

What I like most about this experience is how it balances adventure with comfort. The hassle-free transfers from Kiruna town make it accessible without fuss, and the winter gear provided ensures you stay warm, even when temperatures dip well below freezing. Plus, the highlight of gathering around an open fire for Swedish Fika—hot drinks, cookies, and stories—gives it a genuine, cozy Nordic touch. The only thing to consider is that Northern Lights are never guaranteed, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the package.

One small point to keep in mind: this tour isn’t suited for very young children or those over 70, given the physical activity and cold conditions. Also, dressing warmly and preparing for outdoor elements is crucial. But if you’re ready for a peaceful, authentic Arctic experience that combines wildlife, nature, and a touch of magic, this snowshoe hike might just be the highlight of your trip.

Key points / Takeaways from the Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike

• Authentic Arctic experience: Combining snowshoe trekking, wildlife tracking, and aurora viewing.
• Comfort and convenience: All winter gear included, plus transfers from Kiruna simplify logistics.
• Wildlife spotting: Learn to identify tracks of reindeer, moose, and Arctic hares.
• Cultural warmth: Cozy up around an open fire for traditional Fika.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like those at Kiruna Husky enhance the experience with stories and tips.
• Limited groups: Small group size (up to 8 participants) means personalized attention and fewer crowds.

Starting Point and Transportation: Making It Easy for You

Your adventure begins with a pickup from one of four central locations in Kiruna, including Malmvägen 9B (the Kiruna Lapland Tourist Center), Camp Ripan, Stora Coop, or the Best Western Hotel Arctic Eden. This setup means you can choose a convenient spot close to your accommodation. The ride to the base camp, Kalixforsbron, takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to sit back and soak in the snowy landscape before the real fun begins.

Since transportation is included, there’s no need to worry about driving on icy roads or lugging gear across the snow. The guides, like the friendly and knowledgeable Kiruna Husky staff, are well-versed in local safety and wildlife, setting a reassuring tone for the evening.

The Welcome and Safety Briefing

Upon arrival, the first task is a brief safety briefing. This is essential, especially in the Arctic winter where conditions can change rapidly. The guides will introduce themselves, explain what to expect, and provide tips on snowshoe technique. Don’t worry if you’re new to snowshoes—they’re easy to learn, and the provided equipment will help you traverse the snow without sinking.

The Snowshoe Trek Across Lake and Forest

The core of the experience is approximately 1.5 hours of snowshoeing over a frozen lake and through peaceful forests. The snowshoes are specially designed to distribute your weight, allowing you to walk easily over deep snow. As you hike, guides will point out interesting features like animal tracks, bird signs, and plant life. You might find yourself peering closely at reindeer or moose tracks, learning to distinguish them from Arctic hare or bird trails like those of Ripa, Kiruna’s official bird.

The landscape is breathtaking. The lake, covered in snow, creates a mirror-like surface that reflects the sky, while the forest is a quiet sanctuary filled with snow-laden trees. The guides, often locals or wildlife enthusiasts, share stories about the flora and fauna, giving you a richer understanding of this stark but beautiful environment.

Wildlife and Nature Focus

While the main aim is to possibly see the Northern Lights, the journey itself is packed with opportunities to spot and identify local wildlife. Since you’ll be walking gently through snow, animal tracks are common, and your guide will help you recognize whether they belong to reindeer, moose, or Arctic hares. This focus on nature makes the experience educational and engaging—something you can carry home in your memory and camera roll.

Fire-side Fika and Learning Survival Skills

The highlight for many is the break, where guides will teach you how to find dry firewood in the snow and build a fire. Warmth and comfort are key in these temperatures, and learning a survival skill while sharing stories around the open fire makes for an authentic Arctic experience. You’ll also enjoy Fika, a Swedish tradition of hot drinks and cookies, served in a traditional Nordic tipi. It’s a cozy, convivial moment that balances the outdoor adventure with cultural warmth.

Aurora Borealis Viewing: Luck and Conditions Matter

The main attraction—the Northern Lights—is a natural phenomenon, so viewing is never guaranteed. The guides recommend checking aurora forecasts, like Aurora Reach, to gauge the likelihood of a sighting. If the night is clear and the lights appear, you’ll be amazed at the dancing colors overhead—greens, pinks, and maybe even purples swirling across the sky. With patience, luck, and clear conditions, it’s a spectacle that can genuinely feel like magic.

If the auroras hide behind clouds or don’t appear, don’t worry. The experience still offers serene winter landscapes, wildlife encounters, and authentic outdoor fun. The guides often say, “No matter what, you’ll have a good story,” and I believe it.

Returning and Winding Down

After the trek and fire-side break, you’ll hop back onto the minivan for the short ride back to Kiruna. The tour concludes with a comfortable return, often around 4 hours after pickup, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on your Arctic adventure or plan your next day’s activities.

This experience is ideal if you’re seeking an authentic, lightly adventurous way to explore the Swedish Arctic. It suits travelers who enjoy quiet, scenic outdoor activities and are comfortable in cold weather. Since children under 10 and those over 70 are not recommended, it’s best for active, reasonably fit adults or older teens.

If you’re interested in wildlife, photography, or simply want a peaceful evening away from crowds, this tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s natural beauty. Plus, the small group size guarantees attentive guides and personalized stories—perfect for those who appreciate a more intimate experience.

At around 3.5 hours, the tour offers a comprehensive Arctic experience at a reasonable price, especially considering all gear, transfers, and the Fika included. The hassle-free logistics—pickup and drop-off from central Kiruna—add convenience, while the winter gear provided means you won’t need to pack bulky clothing or boots.

Given the opportunity to learn about local wildlife, see the Northern Lights, and taste traditional Swedish Fika—all in one outing—the value is quite good. It’s a balanced mix of adventure, education, and culture, perfect for those wanting more than just a quick glance at the Arctic.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Children under 10 years old are not recommended, as the activity involves snowshoeing and cold outdoor conditions that might be tiring or unsuitable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with weather-appropriate clothing, a balaclava or scarf, and layer up for comfort. The tour provides winter overalls, boots, mittens, hats, and headlamps, so you only need to focus on staying warm.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Checking forecasts like Aurora Reach can help gauge chances, but patience is key.

How long is the snowshoe trek?
The main hike lasts about 1.5 hours, covering a lake and forest, with additional time for breaks and fire-side activities.

What wildlife might I see or learn about?
You might spot reindeer, moose, Arctic hares, or the local bird Ripa. Guides will help identify animal tracks along the way.

What’s included in the price?
All winter gear, transfers from Kiruna, snowshoes, and a fire-side Fika session with hot drinks and cookies are included.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers or those unfamiliar with winter sports?
Yes, snowshoes are easy to use, and guides will provide instructions, making it accessible for beginners.

The Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike near Kiruna offers a well-rounded Arctic adventure—combining physical activity, wildlife observation, cultural warmth, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. The small-group setting, expert guides, and all-inclusive setup make it one of the more approachable ways to experience Sweden’s winter wilderness. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, authentic taste of Lapland’s natural beauty, especially if they’re comfortable in cold weather and eager to learn about the environment.

While aurora sightings are never guaranteed, the experience itself—walking through snow-covered landscapes, learning survival skills, and sharing Fika around a fire—is truly memorable. For those who love nature and adventure, and want a mix of education and serenity, this tour delivers on all fronts—making it a worthwhile addition to your Arctic itinerary.