Are you visiting Lofoten in winter and looking to see more than just the usual roadside attractions? If you don’t have experience with snowshoeing or hiking in winter conditions but have the courage and stamina to tackle a proper mountain top, then this trip is for you!
Join us for a winter snowshoeing adventure in a small group of up to 6 people to the spectacular Ryten in the Lofotodden National Park in western Lofoten.
Ryten is a stunning mountain peak located in Lofotodden National Park, near the village of Fredvang. From its summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains on Moskenes Island and Flakstad Island, as well as the famous Kvalvika Beach.
Ryten is considered a reasonably “easy” mountain with low avalanche danger due to its gentler slopes. This makes it accessible even in winter with the right equipment, guidance, and favorable weather conditions.
Standing at 543 meters above sea level, the hike involves tackling more than 500 meters of elevation gain. While it’s by no means an easy trek, the reward at the top is unparalleled, offering such views that some of our clients have been moved to tears, calling it the most amazing trip of their lives.
Though to be fair, it might have been the wind in their eyes, but we like to take credit anyway!
Are you half-persuaded that hiking Ryten in winter is something you should have on your bucket list? Great! Let us tell you a bit more about what to expect!
Ivar, your driver and guide, will pick you up at your accommodation (anywhere between Å and Ramberg) and drive you to the trailhead.
We will use snowshoes, microspikes, or potentially both, depending on the snow conditions.
Ivar will show you how to use the snowshoes and adjust the hiking poles, and you’ll receive a brief lesson on how to layer your clothes to avoid getting sweaty and subsequently cold.
During the trip, we will take it easy and have frequent breaks so you can take pictures, catch your breath, and simply enjoy yourself.
The pace will be adjusted to the slowest member of the group so no one is left behind.
If you believe you can run up the mountain and prefer not to be slowed down by other group members, we suggest booking a private hike and letting Ivar know a bit in advance so he can add more cardio to his training sessions.
* Our tours run from October to the end of April. Snowshoes may not be needed early and late in the season.
We spent almost a year living in Fredvang, running an accommodation close to the trailhead to Kvalvika and Ryten.
Ivar has summited Ryten countless times—in summer and winter, under shining sun and raging storms, on foot, skis, or snowshoes.
In addition to his extensive knowledge of the mountain, he is also an educated nurse, certified climbing instructor, and licensed taxi driver, so you’ll be in good hands for the whole adventure. He has quite a sense of humor for a Norwegian so that you won’t get bored either!
Life happens, we get it! Guests can cancel for free up to 48 hours before departure. After that, you’re stuck with us!
From our side, if the weather decides to throw a tantrum, we might have to cancel the trip. In that case, we can offer to reschedule, take you to an alternative location, or give you a full refund.
We require a minimum of 2 people to run this tour. You can still book the trip if you are a solo traveler, but if nobody else joins the trip, we will need to cancel it. We’ll notify you 24 hours before departure if this happens. Thank you for your understanding!
💰 1990 NOK/ adults
💰 1490 NOK/ children (<15 years)
*Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the departure, minimum 2 participants
⏰ 6-8 hours in total, out of that, it is 4-6 hours of hiking
Pickup time varies by time of year so that we can make the most of daylight.
We can also adjust the pickup time (if everybody agrees) based on the weather.
📍We will pick you up at your accommodation (between Å and Ramberg) or meet at Parking for Ryten/Kvalvika in Innersand.
👉 Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation
👉 Guided services
👉 Snowshoes, microspikes, and hiking poles
👉 Headlamps
👉 Tea & Kvikk Lunsj (Norwegian national chocolate bar)
The hike to Ryten is considered moderately challenging, with an elevation gain of 500 meters and a duration of approximately 5-6 hours, including breaks. However, ‘moderately challenging’ is relative to other Lofoten mountains. Be prepared for a solid day trip that will likely leave you returning to your accommodation quite exhausted, but happy that you accomplished it!
We provide snowshoes, microspikes, headlamps, and hiking poles to ensure you’re well-equipped for the hike. However, it’s essential that you bring your own suitable clothing and footwear to stay comfortable and safe throughout the trip.
👕 Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, preferably made of merino wool or synthetic materials. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can leave you feeling cold.
👚Insulating Layer: Wear an insulating layer, like a fleece or down jacket, to keep you warm. This layer traps heat while allowing moisture to escape.
🧥 Outer Layer: Your outer layer should be waterproof and windproof, such as a Gore-Tex jacket and pants. This will protect you from snow, wind, and any unexpected weather changes
🧤Accessories: Don’t forget warm gloves or mittens, a hat that covers your ears, and a neck gaiter or scarf to shield your face from the cold. Sunglasses or goggles are also advisable to protect your eyes from the bright snow.
🥾Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are essential.
🧦 Socks: Wear wool or synthetic socks that provide insulation and wick moisture away from your skin. Consider bringing an extra pair in case your feet get wet.
Please have a look at our article about what to pack for a winter trip to Lofoten.
No prior experience is necessary. Ivar will provide instructions on how to use snowshoes and adjust hiking poles.
The hike can be suitable for older children who are physically fit and accustomed to outdoor activities. It’s difficult to set a strict age limit, as there are some incredibly tough 4-year-olds who have trekked to Everest Base Camp and are often more fit than their parents! In fact, the youngest participant who hiked with us to the top of Ryten was a resilient 7-year-old. Ultimately, we trust your judgment in knowing what your child is capable of. Plus, we have snowshoes available for kids.
In case of bad weather, the hike may be rescheduled, relocated, or canceled.
Now, what exactly is bad weather, you ask? In Lofoten, bad weather means non-stop heavy rain or snow, or really strong winds around 15 m/s in gusts. We’re not afraid of light showers, an overcast sky, or a bit of wind!
When prepping for your hike to Ryten, it’s crucial to have the right gear to keep things comfortable and fun. Start with a good, sturdy backpack that can handle whatever weather Lofoten throws at us.
Make sure to pack some extra clothing layers—think a warm mid-layer, a waterproof jacket, and thermal base layers—because the weather can change quickly up there.
Also, bring a change of clothes like a dry t-shirt and extra socks for when the hike is done.
Don’t forget to bring plenty of water to keep hydrated, plus some high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars, and maybe a packed lunch.
You’ll definitely want a camera/fully charged phone to capture the epic views from the top of Ryten.
If you need any personal medications, pack those too.
Even if it’s not sunny, sunglasses are essential—not only for UV protection but also because they’ll help protect your eyes if the wind starts blowing snow into your face.
If you’re missing anything from this list, just let us know ahead of time—we might be able to lend you some of our gear.
We want you to be fully prepped so you can focus on having an awesome adventure!
You can cancel for free up to 48 hours before departure.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll keep you in the loop and suggest an alternative date, a different route, or offer you a full refund.
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