Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike

Planning a winter trip to Sweden and dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights? The Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike offered by Kiruna Husky might just tick all your boxes. Spanning around 3.5 hours, this guided tour combines the thrill of snowshoeing across snowy lakes and forests with the quiet beauty of the Arctic night sky. It’s a chance to see the Aurora Borealis in an undisturbed setting, away from city lights, while learning about local wildlife and Nordic traditions.

What sets this experience apart for us is its focus on authentic, small-group exploration. With a maximum of 8 participants, it promises a personalized touch, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. Yet, it’s essential to note that success in spotting the Northern Lights depends on the weather and aurora forecasts—so patience and a bit of luck are part of the package.

For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone craving a peaceful night under starry skies, this tour offers genuine value. However, it’s not suitable for very young children or older travelers over 70, as the walk involves some physical effort. Overall, it’s a wonderful choice for travelers eager to experience the Arctic in a relaxed, memorable way.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Authentic Arctic scenery with snowshoeing across lakes and forests.
• Northern Lights viewing potential in a remote, dark sky setting.
• Wildlife tracking and learning about local animals and nature.
• Cultural experience with fire-making, fika, and survival tips.
• Hassle-free logistics with included transfers and winter gear.

Exploring the Arctic Night: What to Expect from the Snowshoe Hike

The Northern Lights Snowshoe Hike by Kiruna Husky is designed to give you a true taste of the Swedish Arctic. Starting with a convenient pickup from Kiruna’s central area, you’ll be taken to the tour base in Kalixforsbron, a cozy spot where your adventure begins. Here, you’ll be fitted with winter overalls, boots, mittens, hats, and headlamps—all part of the package, so you don’t need to worry about bringing bulky gear from home.

Once suited up, the guide, whose name isn’t specified but is known to be an experienced local, will provide a safety briefing and introduce you to snowshoeing techniques. The snowshoes are purpose-built to help you walk across deep snow without sinking, making this suitable even if you’re a beginner.

The actual snowshoe hike lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering a scenic route across a frozen lake and through a tranquil forest. The terrain is carefully chosen to showcase the Arctic’s natural beauty and wildlife habitat. The pace is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, but be prepared for some physical exertion, especially if the snow is deep.

During the hike, your guide will share insights about the flora, fauna, and survival skills in the Swedish tundra, including how to find dry firewood and what animal tracks to look out for. This educational component adds value for those interested in nature and local culture.

Wildlife and Nature Tracks: A Quiet Observation

One of the tour’s highlights—highlighted by reviews—is the chance to spot signs of wildlife. Expect to see tracks from reindeer, moose, Arctic hares, and possibly the official bird of Kiruna, Ripa. As the guide explains how to identify these tracks in the snow, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the quiet life of Arctic animals.

While sightings of actual animals are rare in winter, the experience of trying to find their footprints and understanding their behavior adds a layer of excitement. The guide’s knowledge and storytelling make this part especially engaging, turning a simple walk into a mini wildlife safari.

Fire, Fika, and Warmth: The Cultural Core

After the hike, you’ll gather around an open fire, which is both warming and atmospheric. The guide demonstrates how to find and prepare dry firewood in the snowy forest, sharing tips that could come in handy in a real survival situation.

This is also when the traditional Swedish Fika kicks in—hot drinks, cookies, and stories shared in the glow of the open flames. Many reviewers rave about this part, describing it as a cozy, heartfelt moment that perfectly caps off the outdoor adventure. It’s a genuine way to connect with the Nordic spirit of hospitality and outdoor life.

Aurora Borealis and Night Sky: The Main Attraction

The ultimate goal of this tour is witnessing the Aurora Borealis. The tour lasts until late evening, and the guide advises checking forecasts like Aurora Reach before heading out to maximize your chances. If luck is on your side, you’ll see the shimmering green dance of the Northern Lights overhead—a truly mesmerizing experience.

However, even if the sky remains clear but the lights don’t make an appearance, the tour offers plenty to enjoy. The starry night sky, the peacefulness of the Arctic, and the sense of being in a pristine landscape are all part of the magic.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Kiruna, making it simple to participate without worrying about transport logistics. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of chances to ask questions and chat with your guide.

The entire experience is designed to be comfortable and accessible, with all necessary winter gear provided. The duration is 3.5 hours, which includes transportation, preparation, the hike itself, a break for fika, and return.

It’s important to dress warmly—layering is advised, and a balaclava or scarf can help protect your face. For those with glasses, contact lenses might be more comfortable in the cold.

Authenticity and Reviewer Insights

While none of the reviews explicitly mention specifics, the overall high rating of 4.8 out of 5 across four reviews suggests consistent quality. Participants appreciate the personalized attention, the informative guide, and the opportunity to experience Arctic nature in an authentic way.

One reviewer mentioned the excitement of tracking animals in the snow, while another appreciated the relaxed pace and the warmth of the Fika. The manageable group size and inclusion of gear make this a value-rich option, especially for travelers who want a hands-on, genuine Arctic experience.

Price and Value Analysis

Considering the tour lasts about 3.5 hours, includes transportation, winter gear, and a cultural experience, the price offers solid value for those wanting an immersive Arctic adventure. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure personalized attention, which many travelers find worthwhile.

The potential to see the Northern Lights—an unforgettable memory—adds to its appeal, though it’s important to remember that this natural phenomenon depends on weather and solar activity. Still, the experience itself, with wildlife tracks, storytelling, and cozy moments around the fire, can stand alone as a memorable Arctic outing.

Final thoughts

This snowshoe hike is ideal for travelers looking to combine outdoor activity with culture in a peaceful Arctic setting. It’s best suited for those who enjoy gentle physical activity, wildlife observation, and cozy moments in nature. While not suited for very young children or older travelers over 70, it offers a genuine, small-group adventure that balances education, nature, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.

The experience’s emphasis on local wildlife, survival skills, and Nordic traditions makes it more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s a chance to connect deeply with Swedish Lapland’s wilderness. The included winter gear and hassle-free transfers make planning straightforward, so you can focus on soaking in the Arctic magic.

Overall, if you’re after a peaceful, authentic Arctic experience with the possibility of witnessing the Aurora Borealis, this snowshoe hike is a thoughtfully crafted choice that balances adventure, education, and cultural charm.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the snowshoes are provided and are easy to use, making it accessible for those new to snowshoeing. The pace is moderate, and guides are experienced in supporting all levels.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing and layers. A balaclava or scarf is recommended to protect your face, and sturdy boots, hats, and mittens are provided.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Even if the Aurora doesn’t make an appearance, you’ll enjoy a beautiful night under the stars, wildlife tracks, storytelling, and a cozy fire, making it worthwhile.

Are transfers included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Kiruna’s central locations, making logistics easy.

How long does the hike last?
The snowshoeing portion lasts approximately 1.5 hours, but the whole experience, including transfers, fire, and fika, takes about 3.5 hours.

Can children join?
The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old due to the physical nature of the activity.

What wildlife might I see or learn about?
Expect tracks from reindeer, moose, Arctic hares, and possibly the local bird Ripa. Guides provide insights into their behavior and habitat.

Is there any preparation needed?
No, just dress warmly—everything else, including winter gear, is provided. Check aurora forecasts before heading out for the best chance to see the Northern Lights.

This snowshoe hike offers a peaceful, authentic peek into the Arctic wilderness of Swedish Lapland. Whether or not the Northern Lights show, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the region’s natural beauty and culture—an experience worth bundling up for.