From Reine: Easy/Moderate Snowshoe Hike

About this hike

This winter hike starts from the Innersand trailhead near Fredvang, the same starting point as our more demanding Guided Winter Snowshoe Hike to Ryten, and takes you toward a smaller summit with stunning views over the mountains and fjords of Moskenesya and Flakstadøya.

We don’t publish the name of this particular summit online. The area has no marked trail, and we’d like to keep it that way, both to protect the landscape and out of respect for the local community. What we can tell you is that the views from the top are completely disproportionate to the effort required to get there.

The hike involves around 200 metres of elevation gain, making it significantly more accessible than Ryten or most other serious winter hikes in Lofoten. That said, this is still a proper winter mountain trip in Arctic Norway. There will be snow, uneven terrain, and changing weather. But that’s also exactly what makes winter in Lofoten feel so special.

Why hike with Guide to Lofoten specifically?

We live in western Lofoten. Year-round.

Not seasonal guides flying in for the winter. We’re here in the storms, the snowmelt, and everything in between. We know this area in every mood it has. We know which conditions make the hike beautiful, and when to adjust the plan.

We put your experience first, not our schedule

We track weather, snowpack, and visibility forecasts and adjust pickup times based on daylight and conditions. We know the terrain well enough to adapt the route if needed. Safety always comes first. But so does giving you the best possible day out.

We're actually with you, not ahead of you

We keep a relaxed pace, take breaks for photos and warm drinks, and make sure nobody feels rushed or left behind. In a small group, we always adjust to the slowest participant.

The flexible option: this hike or Ryten

Because this hike shares its starting point with our Guided Winter Snowshoe Hike to Ryten, we often run both at the same time, one guide toward Ryten, one toward this summit. So if you start the easy hike and feel great at the top of the first hill, you can sometimes continue toward Ryten instead. Contact us in advance if this flexibility is useful for your planning.

Is this hike right for you?

Great fit if you…
want to experience winter mountains in Lofoten without committing to a full-day summit expedition
are trying snowshoeing for the first time
enjoy photography, scenery, and being outdoors at a pace that leaves room to actually look around
are travelling with people of mixed fitness levels
want an active winter day that leaves you pleasantly tired rather than completely destroyed

If you’re looking for something more demanding, have a look at our Guided Winter Snowshoe Hike to Ryten. Longer, with more elevation, and a full day on the mountain. Genuinely achievable for most people, but a bigger commitment than this hike.

What does a typical day on this hike look like?

Your guide will pick you up at your accommodation anywhere between Å and Ramberg, or you can meet at the Innersand trailhead parking. Pickup time varies by season to make the most of daylight.

Before we set off, your guide will show you how to fit and use the snowshoes and adjust the hiking poles. Most people adapt within ten minutes. The biggest challenge is usually remembering that your feet are suddenly much wider than normal, and not stepping on your own snowshoes every third step.

On the mountain, we keep a relaxed pace. Breaks for photos, hot drinks, catching your breath, and simply looking around. Because this is a shorter hike, we actually have time to slow down and enjoy the scenery instead of constantly marching uphill.

Lunch is outside on the mountain. We bring a proper hot meal (Real Turmat freeze-dried, genuinely good), tea, and snacks. Eating outside in the snow with those views is, for many guests, the highlight of the whole trip.

What’s included

Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation between Å and Ramberg
Guided services throughout the hike
Snowshoes, microspikes, and hiking poles
Backpacks and extra gear — hats, neckwarmers, gloves, gaiters, goggles, down jackets
Tea and snacks
Hot outdoor lunch (Real Turmat)

What’s not included

Will we definitely reach the summit?

We aim for the summit on every hike, and on most days we get there. But weather, snow conditions, and safety all play a role. Good guides know when not to push for the top, and the views on the way are still extraordinary.

What to wear

Layering properly makes the difference between a comfortable day and a miserable one.

Base layer: merino wool or synthetic. Not cotton.
Mid layer: fleece, wool jumper, or lightweight down jacket.
Outer layer: waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers.
Footwear: tall waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. Or rent ours for 250 NOK.
Hands and head: warm gloves, a hat covering your ears, a neck gaiter.
Eyes: sunglasses or goggles for bright snow and wind.

We carry spare hats, gloves, gaiters, goggles, and down jackets, and can lend gear in a pinch. If you’re unsure whether your kit is suitable, just ask.

What happens if the weather is bad?

People have very different definitions of “bad weather” in Lofoten. Sometimes there’s a proper Arctic storm and locals are like: “Ah yes, gentle breeze. Perfect hiking weather.” Meanwhile, some visitors start worrying three days in advance because the forecast shows… clouds.

We operate in cold, wind, snow, and overcast conditions. Some of the most beautiful winter days in Lofoten happen when the weather is dramatic. We cancel or adjust only when conditions become genuinely unsafe.

Our Team

Radka

Co-founder, Guide & Content Lead

Radka is mostly found behind a camera, behind a laptop, or catching her breath halfway up a mountain while Ivar is already at the top. She runs sightseeing tours, writes all the guides and blog articles, and joins the hikes occasionally, mainly to demonstrate that slow hikers still make it to the top.

She is also the voice behind most of Guide to Lofoten’s content, including the sarcastic comments about weather, ferries, and Norwegian bureaucracy. Background in environmental chemistry and travel planning, and a former travel agency guide in Tromsø, where she learned what good guiding looks like and what it definitely does not.

Ivar

Co-founder & Guide

Ivar is the engine behind everything. He does logistics, guiding, accounting, and most of the things that keep the company running and Radka from losing her mind. His favourite tours are the winter hikes to Ryten, which makes sense, because he is usually already sitting at the summit while everyone else is still on the way up. Outside work he is hiking, climbing, skiing, or freediving somewhere around the islands.

Trained nurse. Certified climbing instructor. Licensed taxi driver. A combination that covers almost every situation the Arctic can produce.

Marek

Sightseeing Guide & Photographer, Reine

Marek runs our sightseeing tours from Reine. He has a genuine “we can manage anything” attitude, which is exactly what you want when the forecast looks terrible and the plan has changed for the third time. He is a trained photographer and takes extraordinary pictures, both from land and from his kayak, where he feels most at home.

Maria

Sightseeing Guide & Photographer, Svolvær

Maria runs our sightseeing tours from Svolvær. She is calm, professional, and has a quiet confidence that puts guests at ease immediately. She is also an exceptional photographer, and her photos regularly end up being guests’ favourite souvenirs from Lofoten. We are not sure how she does all three at once, but she does.

Rest of the team

Maciej, Tomáš, Jakub, Ondra, Jitka and the rest. The team has grown beyond the four of us. Everyone who guides for Guide to Lofoten lives in or around the islands, works with flexibility rather than scripts, and genuinely cares whether your day was good.

Frequently asked questions about this winter snowshoe hike

How difficult is this hike, honestly?

Compared to most hikes in Lofoten: genuinely much more accessible. Compared to sitting in a café eating cinnamon buns: harder than that. Compared to one of those flat tourist snowshoe walks around a frozen lake: also more demanding.

Around 200 metres of elevation, 2–3 hours of hiking, real winter conditions. You’ll feel physically tired afterwards. You don’t need experience, but you should be comfortable walking for a few hours outdoors in winter.

Do I need prior snowshoeing experience?

No. Most guests are trying snowshoes for the first time. Your guide will show you how they work before you set off. Depending on conditions, we may use microspikes instead — especially early or late in the season.

Is the hike suitable for children?

Potentially yes. This route is much shorter and gentler than Ryten, making it a good option for families. We have snowshoes in smaller sizes. If you’re considering bringing a child, get in touch and we’ll give you an honest assessment.

Can I bring a drone?

Yes — unlike Ryten, this summit is not within Lofotodden National Park, so flying a drone here is permitted. Note that even launching outside the park, you’re not allowed to fly into the national park itself. We know the area and will point out the boundaries. We’d also ask you to be considerate toward the rest of the group — not everybody loves the sound of a flying lawnmower interrupting their peaceful Arctic mountain moment.

What’s the difference between this hike and the Ryten hike?

Same starting point, very different day. This hike: around 200 metres of elevation gain over 2–3 hours of hiking. The Guided Winter Snowshoe Hike to Ryten: 500 metres of elevation gain over 5–6 hours. This hike is accessible and designed for a relaxed mountain day. Ryten is a longer, more demanding day — most people manage it fine, but it will leave you tired in a way this hike won’t.

What our guests say

Rated 5.0 on Google and TripAdvisor across 160+ reviews.

    
 
 
      Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic day tour covering so much ground but so many beautiful views, and our guide Thomas leading us to the most beautiful spots and tasty food options! I loved this experience and would highly recommend!
  
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     dani g 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We could really feel our guide Tomas’s passion for his job, as he explained the science behind northern lights through the most understandable ways and played traditional northern folk music in the van. On top of all of this, he was as thrilled about the appearance of aurora as we were despite having witnessed it countless times. He knew exactly where to go and how to take successful photos with the northern lights. Overall, the guide stayed truly professional and care-taking throughout the entire trip. Highly recommend!!!! (We witnessed very clear aurora in late August btw, do believe in low chances!)
  
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     Judy Xin-Ai Wu 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Marek was excellent, very knowledgeable, sense of humour and great insight into local life in Lofoten.
  
  Posted on Google  
 
     P T 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking for a tour with stops and short walks at a few beautiful beaches, Hamnøy, Sakrisøy, Reine and Å, then the 'Sightseeing tour to Reine and Å from Svolvær' is just what you want to experience! Small group and a great guide!
  
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     Danny Stuer 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. : We had a wonderful time with Guide to Lofoten! Our guide, Marek, was fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about Lofoten. He showed us beautiful places, shared interesting stories and made the whole experience relaxed and enjoyable for our family. Even though we had to finish the tour a little earlier than planned because of the weather condition, it was one of the highlights of our trip to Norway. We left with amazing memories and a real appreciation for this beautiful part of the world. Thank you, Marek, for such a special day. We would happily recommend Guide to Lofoten to anyone looking for a personal and unforgettable experience! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  
  Posted on Google  
 
     Maria Shemyakina 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What a truly magical experience with the Guide to Lofoten team! A huge thank you to Ivar and Radka for meticulously customizing our journey from Lofoten all the way to Tromsø. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, making our trip seamless and unforgettable. Ivar responded to all our questions in a consistently professional and kind manner, and both Ivar and Radka kindly took the time to see us off, which was a very thoughtful and much-appreciated gesture. Special appreciation goes to our wonderful guide, driver, and friend, Marek (Mark). His professionalism, responsibility, and warm personality made all the difference. He took us along the most breathtaking scenic routes, shared his local knowledge, and ensured we were comfortable and well taken care of throughout the journey. From the stunning landscapes to the exceptional service, every moment exceeded our expectations. We thoroughly enjoyed this incredible adventure and would highly recommend Guide to Lofoten to anyone planning to explore this spectacular part of Norway. Once again, thank you—tusen takk! 🇳🇴
  
  Posted on Google  
 
     Grace Koo 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mareck is an informative & patient guide. Willing to show the best spots for photo shoots.
  
  Posted on Google  
 
     Ai Lin Yong 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our guide, Marek, was amazing! He took us everywhere and explained every place we visited in a very professional, knowledgeable, and engaging way. His passion, friendliness, and attention to detail made the experience truly enjoyable. We learned so much and had a wonderful time. Thank you, Marek , for making our trip so memorable!
  
  Posted on Google  
 
     Ivy Koo 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thanks to Mr Marek, our tour manager in Lofoten. It was an amazing experience and highly recommended
  
  Posted on Google  
 
     Cy Tay 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I spent two amazing days with Marek as my guide, and it was hands down, the best part of my two weeks in Norway!  Marek's knowledge of the area, history and ability to get us into places to see them during times that were not filled with people was awesome.  I spent the next 5-days with my hiking group treating them to as much knowledge as I could from those two days.  I HIGHLY recommend Marek as your guide of choice should you ever find yourself in the Lofoten Islands of Norway.  Absolutely the best money spent!
  
  Posted on Google  
 
     Michelle

Ready for a proper winter day in Lofoten?

We’ve been taking people into these mountains for years, and we still love every single hike.
If something’s on your mind before booking, the difficulty, the conditions, whether this hike even fits your trip, just get in touch. We actually reply.

5.0 (160+ reviews)

Cancellation & refunds

We’re a small local company operating tours in Arctic Norway, where conditions can sometimes affect whether a tour can safely run.

Thank you for supporting a small local business ❤️

Weather & operational cancellations
If weather, road conditions, or safety issues make the tour unsafe or unrealistic to run, we may adjust the route, reschedule, or issue a full refund.

Travel disruptions & insurance
If you cannot join due to flight cancellations, illness, road closures, ferry disruptions, or similar travel issues — we’re happy to provide documentation for your travel insurance. These situations fall outside our cancellation policy and should be handled through your insurer.

Guest cancellations

Cancel 48+ hours before departure → full refund minus a 5% transaction fee
Cancel under 48 hours before / no-show → no refund

Not every winter day in Lofoten needs six hours on a steep mountain.