About

A hike through the untouched winter landscape, along snow covered trails in the mountains.Strap on a pair of snowshoes and make your way up to the summit – the local favourite of Harstad, known for its overwhelming, far reaching panoramic view of the arctic landscape. Experience the essence of the north at Mount Keipen.

The Norwegians have their own word for snowshoes: “Truger”, originating from the old Norse word “þrjúgr”. The large footprints spread the weight of the wearer, allowing them to move gracefully above snow. A vital tool for anyone wanting to explore arctic landscape, snowshoes provide accessibility to otherwise unreachable spots. Snowhoes are simple to use, beginner friendly, and ideal for venturing into untouched nature without disrupting the environment.

Mount Keipen

Norway is famous for its mountains, and the excellent hiking trails they provide. Some trails are well known nationally, while others remain hidden gems, loved by locals. If you ask anyone in Harstad, they'll tell you Mount Keipen is their top choice.

And the hike is well loved by the locals for good reason. Mount Keipen is only a twenty-minute drive away from Harstad, as you twist and curve along the narrow roads up the mountain. The trail is easy to reach, yet at the same time offers pure unblemished natural beauty. Make your way slowly up the mountain, passing the frozen lakes, animal tracks left in the wake of an arctic fox, surrounded by a blue blushed snow - coloured by the pale light of the arctic winter sun.

The Summit

The hike to the summit is, as Goldilocks might say, “just right” – neither too long nor too short. Aided by a local guide and trusty snowshoes, the journey to the top takes about an hour. And the payoff is mesmerizing: a sweeping, panoramic view of the surrounding archipelago, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as Andøya.

No Norwegian hike is complete without a “niste” – a packed lunch. Hiking, and a little snack to reward yourself at the top, is firmly entrenched in Norwegian culture. Enjoy the breathtaking view from the summit the Norwegian way, with a cup of hot chocolate and a lefse – the traditional snack of choice for the Norwegian outdoor lifestyle.

Duration: 3,5 hrs

Difficulty: Moderate

Meeting point: Explore Harstad, Sjøgata 3

How to get there?

- The Explore Harstad office is in the middle of the city center, in walking distance from all the major hotels.

What’s Included?

- Guide and transport to Mount Keipen

- Snowshoes and equipment

- Snacks at the summit

Good to know

- The hike is about 4km in total

- No toilet facilities