Things to Do in the Lyngen Alps

A First Glimpse

The crunch of skis on untouched snow, the glimmer of sunlight bouncing off glaciers, and fjords stretching out like silver mirrors below — welcome to the Lyngen Alps, one of Norway’s most dramatic mountain ranges. Rising sharply from the Arctic Ocean, these jagged peaks are a playground for outdoor adventurers who want to experience the raw beauty of the far north.

Located a few hours east of Tromsø, the Lyngen Alps (Lyngsalpene in Norwegian) are famous for their wild, rugged landscape of towering mountains, deep fjords, and blue glaciers. Peaks rise over 1,800 metres straight from the sea, creating views that are both breathtaking and humbling. Unlike Tromsø city’s bustle, the Lyngen Alps feel remote and peaceful, with small villages dotted along fjord edges and endless wilderness to explore.

For travellers looking to visit northern Norway, the Lyngen Alps are often considered one of the hidden gems of the region. Whether you are drawn by skiing, hiking, or simply soaking up Arctic scenery, this is a place where every season offers unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Outdoor Activities in the Lyngen Alps

Winter Adventures
The Lyngen Alps are world-renowned for ski touring and freeride skiing. From February to May, skiers from around the globe come to climb and descend the region’s peaks, often skiing all the way down to the fjord edge. The combination of steep mountains, reliable snow, and dramatic views makes this one of the top skiing destinations in Europe.

Snowmobiling is another way to discover the vast landscapes, taking you deep into valleys and across frozen plateaus where the silence of the Arctic surrounds you. For a more cultural experience, try reindeer sledding with Sámi guides, or feel the thrill of dog sledding as huskies race across snowy terrain.

The Lyngen Alps are also an excellent spot for northern lights hunting. With little light pollution, the skies here are often alive with auroras from September to March, making evenings as exciting as days.

Summer Adventures
When the snow melts, hiking takes centre stage. Trails range from gentle walks along fjord shores to demanding climbs up glaciers and ridges. Popular routes include the summit of Jiehkkevárri, the highest peak in Troms county, and easier hikes like Blåisen glacier or the shores of Lyngenfjord.

Cycling and mountain biking are growing in popularity, with scenic routes that follow fjords and climb into valleys. Kayaking is another highlight, letting you paddle under towering peaks and alongside curious seals or seabirds. Fishing, both in rivers and the sea, is excellent, with salmon-rich rivers attracting anglers every summer.

Year-Round Experiences
The Lyngen Alps are also home to unique cultural and wellness experiences. Staying in a glass-roofed cabin or igloo hotel lets you watch either the aurora or the midnight sun from your bed. Local Sámi experiences, Arctic cuisine, and village visits add depth to the outdoor adventures, connecting you with the people who call this wild region home.

Local Tips

The Lyngen Alps are more remote than Tromsø, so plan ahead for food, fuel, and accommodation. Winter travellers should be prepared for Arctic conditions — layers, thermal clothing, and proper footwear are essential. If ski touring, always check avalanche forecasts and consider hiring a local guide, as the terrain is steep and challenging.

In summer, carry a mosquito repellent for valley hikes, and remember that weather in the mountains can change quickly, even under the midnight sun. Respect local culture by supporting small businesses, and always leave the wilderness as you found it.

Best Time to Visit the Lyngen Alps

• Winter (December to April): Best for skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, reindeer sledding, and northern lights. Ski touring is at its peak between February and May.
• Summer (June to August): Midnight sun, hiking, kayaking, fishing, and cycling. Long daylight hours make it easy to fit in several activities in a single day.
• Autumn (September to October): Stunning colours, fewer visitors, and early aurora sightings, with some hiking trails still accessible.

How to Get There

The Lyngen Alps are about a 2.5–3 hour journey from Tromsø. From Tromsø Airport, you can rent a car and drive east, taking scenic ferry crossings across Ullsfjord or via Nordkjosbotn. Buses run between Tromsø and Lyngseidet, the main village in the region, though schedules are limited.

For those combining destinations, it is possible to link the Lyngen Alps with nearby Bardufoss, Narvik, or Sommarøy as part of a wider Arctic Norway journey.

The Lyngen Alps are a land where fjords meet glaciers and mountain peaks rise dramatically from the sea. Whether you come for world-class ski touring, peaceful hikes under the midnight sun, or quiet evenings watching the northern lights, this region offers some of the most authentic outdoor adventures in northern Norway. To visit the Lyngen Alps is to step into the heart of Arctic wilderness.