At a Glance
Quick OverviewWalking on ancient ice that glows impossibly blue, navigating between towering ice formations and deep crevasses, roped together with fellow adventurers whilst professional guides lead the way—glacier hiking in Norway offers an experience unlike anything else on Earth. Norway is home to mainland Europe’s largest glacier, Jostedalsbreen, along with dozens of accessible glacier arms where guided tours make this extraordinary environment safe for visitors of all experience levels. Whether you choose a family-friendly introduction or an extended expedition across pristine ice fields, glacier hiking reveals a world of frozen beauty that few people ever witness firsthand.
Norway welcomed 6.20 million international visitors in 2024, contributing approximately £6.2 billion to the national economy. The country was recognised as Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination 2024, with glacier experiences ranking among the most sought-after activities for travellers seeking authentic wilderness adventures in the Norwegian panorama.
According to Visit Norway, glacier hiking on Nigardsbreen offers daily tours from May to September, with experienced guides providing all necessary equipment and instruction for a safe and unforgettable experience.
Norway’s Glacial Heritage: A Frozen Legacy
Norway’s relationship with glaciers stretches back millennia, shaping the dramatic fjord landscapes that draw visitors from across the globe. The Norwegian glaciers visible today are remnants of the vast ice sheets that once covered Scandinavia during the last Ice Age, approximately 10,000-12,000 years ago. As these colossal ice masses retreated, they carved the deep U-shaped valleys and fjords that define Norway’s western coastline—UNESCO World Heritage landscapes that continue to evolve with each passing season.
The scientific study of Norwegian glaciers began in earnest during the 19th century, when geologists first recognised the role of ice in shaping the terrain. Today, Norway’s glaciers serve as crucial indicators of climate change, with researchers from the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) monitoring their advance and retreat annually. This monitoring programme, established in 1899, represents one of the world’s longest continuous glacier observation records.
Understanding glaciers enhances the hiking experience immeasurably. The blue colouration that mesmerises visitors results from the absorption of red light wavelengths by dense, ancient ice—ice that may have formed from snow falling centuries ago, compressed layer upon layer until air bubbles were squeezed out and crystal-clear blue ice remained.
Norway’s Major Glaciers
Jostedalsbreen—Europe’s Largest Glacier
A frozen giant spanning 490 square kilometres:
Jostedalsbreen stands as the largest glacier not only in Norway but in all of mainland Europe, covering approximately 490 square kilometres of ice at its maximum extent. Located in the heart of Jostedalsbreen National Park in western Norway, this massive ice field feeds numerous glacier arms that flow down into surrounding valleys—creating accessible hiking destinations whilst remaining connected to the vast ice cap above.
The national park, established in 1991, protects 1,310 square kilometres of high mountain landscape, encompassing the glacier and its surrounding wilderness. The park represents Norway’s commitment to preserving natural heritage whilst allowing sustainable access for visitors. Each year, thousands of hikers experience the park’s glacier arms, contributing to local economies whilst gaining profound appreciation for glacial environments.
| Glacier Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 490 km² (largest in mainland Europe) |
| Thickness | Up to 600 metres |
| National Park | Jostedalsbreen National Park (1,310 km²) |
| Established | Park founded 1991 |
| Popular Arms | Nigardsbreen, Briksdalsbreen, Bøyabreen |
| Season | May - September |
| Nearest Cities | Bergen (4 hours), Oslo (6 hours) |
| Annual Visitors | Approximately 200,000 to the national park |
The glacier’s ice cap reaches altitudes exceeding 2,000 metres, feeding over 50 named glacier arms that descend into valleys at far lower elevations. This accessibility—glacial ice reaching altitudes where regular hiking is possible—makes Jostedalsbreen uniquely suited for visitor experiences compared to high-altitude glaciers elsewhere in the world.
Nigardsbreen—The Blue Ice Destination
Norway’s premier glacier hiking experience:
Nigardsbreen is an arm of Jostedalsbreen Glacier that has become Norway’s most popular glacier hiking destination. The combination of accessibility, dramatic blue ice formations, and professional guide services makes this the ideal place to experience glacier hiking for the first time.
The glacier descends to just 355 metres above sea level, making it remarkably accessible compared to Alpine glaciers. A turquoise glacier lake, formed by meltwater, creates a stunning approach that includes an optional boat crossing—adding a sense of adventure before you even set foot on the ice.
The blue ice hikes on Nigardsbreen Glacier are bookable for the 2026 season, with Jostedalen Breførarlag offering well-organised glacier hikes on the blue ice for participants as young as 8 years old. This guiding operation has operated since 1936, representing nearly 90 years of expertise in glacier safety and interpretation.
What makes Nigardsbreen special:
- Dramatic blue ice revealed after snow melt (best August-September)
- Protected nature reserve since 1985
- Deep crevasses and towering ice formations
- Accessible glacier lake crossing by boat
- Tours suitable for families and first-timers
- Historic guiding tradition dating to 1936
- Scientific monitoring station tracking climate changes
- Visitor centre with educational exhibitions
The glacier has retreated significantly over the past century, and this retreat forms part of the educational experience. Guides discuss climate change impacts whilst leading visitors through landscapes that looked vastly different even a generation ago—making the experience both adventurous and thought-provoking.
Book Nigardsbreen Glacier TourFolgefonna—Fjord Views and Ancient Ice
Norway’s third-largest glacier with panoramic scenery:
Folgefonna is Norway’s third-largest glacier, covering approximately 200 square kilometres across three connected ice masses: Nordre Folgefonna, Midtre Folgefonna, and Søndre Folgefonna. The glacier has attracted visitors for over 200 years—even 19th-century tourists marvelled at its frozen expanse. Located just 2 hours from Bergen, it’s the most southern glacier in Norway—and from its summit, you can see all the way to the North Sea.
The Folgefonna National Park, established in 2005, protects 545 square kilometres including the glacier and surrounding mountain terrain. This relatively recent designation reflects growing recognition of the area’s ecological and geological significance, ensuring protection for future generations.
According to visitBergen, Folgefonna consists of three connected glaciers and sits in the heart of the Norwegian fjord landscape, offering unique combinations of ice, mountain, and fjord scenery.
Folgefonna highlights:
- Panoramic views to fjords, Rosendal Alps, and North Sea
- Juklavass glacier arm with impressive blue ice
- Less crowded than Nigardsbreen
- Longer season (May-November for some tours)
- Accessible from Bergen via Hardangerfjord
- Summer ski centre on the glacier
- Via ferrata experiences combining climbing and ice
- National park visitor centre with exhibits
The combination of glacier hiking with Hardangerfjord experiences—fruit orchards, Vøringsfossen waterfall, and scenic driving routes—makes Folgefonna an excellent choice for visitors seeking variety within a single region. The Hardangerfjord itself stretches 179 kilometres, making it Norway’s second-longest fjord, and the glacier contributes to its remarkable ecosystem.
Svartisen—Northern Norway’s Frozen Giant
Norway’s second-largest glacier:
Whilst Jostedalsbreen and Folgefonna dominate the southern glacier hiking scene, Svartisen in Nordland County offers glacier experiences with a distinctly Arctic character. Located near Bodø, this glacier covers approximately 370 square kilometres, making it Norway’s second largest.
Svartisen consists of two separate ice masses: Vestre (Western) Svartisen and Østre (Eastern) Svartisen, separated by the Vesterdalen valley. The Engabreen arm of Western Svartisen descends to just 20 metres above sea level—the lowest-reaching glacier arm in mainland Europe and one of the lowest in the Northern Hemisphere.
Svartisen advantages:
- Fewer tourists than southern glaciers
- Arctic atmosphere and wildlife
- Accessible from Bodø (2-hour boat journey)
- Unique subglacial laboratory for research
- Midnight sun glacier hiking in summer
- Connection to Northern Norway adventures
Glacier Tour Options
Short Blue Ice Hike (Nigardsbreen)
The perfect introduction:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4.5 hours total |
| Time on Ice | Approximately 1.5 hours |
| Season | 15 May - 25 September |
| Age Minimum | 8 years old |
| Difficulty | Moderate—reasonable fitness required |
| Price (2026) | 795-950 NOK (£65-75) |
What to expect:
You’ll be equipped with crampons, ice axe, harness, and helmet. Roped together with your group, you’ll walk leisurely across the glacier surface, exploring deep blue crevasses and high ice towers. Sometimes you can even crawl through ice tunnels. The guides make the experience accessible even if you’ve never used any of the equipment before.
The experience begins with a safety briefing at the Breheimsenteret glacier centre, where you’ll learn about glacier formation, safety protocols, and equipment use. From there, transport takes you to the glacier lake, where a short boat crossing delivers you to the ice edge. The actual glacier time includes instruction, exploration, and photography opportunities.
Long Blue Ice Hike (Nigardsbreen)
Extended glacier exploration:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5.5 hours total |
| Time on Ice | Approximately 2.5 hours |
| Season | 2 June - 15 September |
| Age Minimum | 10 years old |
| Difficulty | Challenging—good fitness required |
| Price (2026) | 1,150-1,450 NOK (£90-115) |
Experience impressive ice towers and deep blue crevasses on an extended hike—an experience you’ll never forget. The longer duration allows deeper exploration of the glacier landscape and more time to appreciate the frozen environment.
This extended tour ventures further onto the glacier, reaching areas inaccessible on shorter tours. Participants encounter more dramatic ice formations, larger crevasses, and often experience the profound silence that characterises remote glacial environments. The additional time allows guides to share more detailed information about glaciology, climate science, and local history.
Panorama Glacier Hike (Folgefonna)
Accessible glacier experience:
Folgefonni Glacier Team offers this shorter option adapted to participants’ wishes and physical conditions. The Panorama hike is less physically demanding than the blue ice hike, making it excellent for families, first-time glacier hikers, or anyone preferring a more relaxed pace.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3-4 hours |
| Distance | Approximately 3-4 km |
| Elevation Gain | About 250 metres |
| Starting Point | Former ski centre (1,200m elevation) |
| Price (2026) | 750-950 NOK (£60-75) |
The high starting elevation means you begin in alpine terrain, with shorter approach distances to reach the glacier itself. Views extend across Hardangerfjord to distant peaks, providing context for the glacier’s position within the broader landscape.
Blue Ice Hike (Folgefonna)
Deep into the ice:
The Blue Ice Hike takes you to the Juklavass Glacier, an impressive section of the Folgefonna glacier system. Large crevasses form where the glacier bends over the edge of the mountain plateau—reaching depths of up to 30 metres (98 feet).
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5-6 hours |
| Season | May - November |
| Age Minimum | 10 years old |
| Includes | All technical equipment |
| Price (2026) | 1,250-1,650 NOK (£100-130) |
The extended season—continuing into November when southern glaciers typically close—makes Folgefonna attractive for autumn visitors. Late-season hiking often coincides with dramatic weather conditions, early snow at higher elevations, and fewer crowds.
Explore All Norway Glacier ToursWhat to Expect
Before the Hike
Meeting and preparation:
Tours typically begin at a meeting point near the glacier. At Nigardsbreen, some tours include a boat crossing of the glacier lake to reach the ice. Guides will fit you with equipment and provide safety briefings.
The equipment fitting process deserves attention. Guides ensure crampons fit securely to your boots—essential for safe travel on ice. Harnesses are adjusted for comfortable wear during the hours ahead. This preparation phase typically takes 30-45 minutes but is crucial for safety and enjoyment.
Equipment provided:
- Crampons (metal spikes attached to boots)
- Ice axe
- Harness
- Helmet
- Rope (groups walk roped together)
- Some operators provide mountain boots if needed
- Gloves and gaiters (some operators)
On the Ice
The glacier experience:
Walking on a glacier feels like entering another world. The ice beneath your feet might be hundreds of years old—snow that fell when Vikings sailed these fjords, compressed into crystal-clear blue ice over centuries. You’ll see:
- Blue ice: Later in the season, when surface snow melts, the glacier reveals stunning blue colouration caused by compressed ice absorbing red light
- Crevasses: Deep cracks in the ice that form as the glacier moves and bends
- Ice towers and ridges: Dramatic formations created by melting and movement
- Meltwater streams: Rivers flowing across and through the ice
- Moraines: Rocky debris pushed by the glacier
- Mills (moulins): Vertical shafts carved by meltwater
- Ogives: Wave-like bands created by seasonal variations in ice flow
The roped team:
Tied together on a single rope, you rely on your equipment and teamwork with fellow hikers. If anyone slips or encounters a hidden crevasse, the team arrests the fall. This system has kept glacier travellers safe for generations.
The rope spacing matters—guides position team members at intervals that allow the rope to catch a fall whilst maintaining group cohesion. Learning to walk with appropriate rope tension becomes intuitive quickly, and most participants report feeling more secure roped together than they anticipated.
Weather Conditions
Rain is normal:
According to tour operators, rain is normal weather in glacier regions. Western Norway receives substantial precipitation, particularly in summer months. The hikes are cancelled only in exceptional and severe weather conditions or dangerous ice conditions. Good clothing is essential—the weather is part of the glacier experience.
Temperature on the glacier typically ranges from 2-10°C, even in summer, regardless of valley conditions. Wind chill can reduce perceived temperatures significantly. Layered clothing allows adjustment as activity levels and conditions change throughout the tour.
What to Bring
Clothing Requirements
Essential items:
- Warm, wind and waterproof jacket and trousers
- Clothing must cover your entire body (no shorts or skirts without leggings underneath)
- Layers that can be adjusted as you warm up
- Warm gloves (windproof recommended)
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses (essential—snow and ice create intense glare)
- Sunscreen (UV reflection is strong on glaciers)
- Buff or neck gaiter for wind protection
Pack List
In your rucksack:
- Lunch and snacks (high-energy foods recommended)
- Water (at least 1 litre, 2 litres for longer tours)
- Extra warm layer
- Rain gear if not wearing it
- Camera (with secure strap)
- Small first aid kit (optional)
- Spare socks
- Lip balm with SPF
Footwear
Sturdy shoes required:
Bring solid hiking boots or sturdy athletic shoes with ankle support. Crampons will be strapped over your footwear—they need a firm sole to attach properly. Sandals, flip-flops, or thin trainers are not appropriate. Waterproof boots are recommended but not essential for shorter tours.
Some operators offer boot hire for those without suitable footwear. Contact your operator in advance to confirm availability and sizes.
Booking and Pricing
Tour Costs (2026)
| Tour Type | Duration | Price Range (NOK) | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Blue Ice | 4-5 hours | 795-950 NOK | £65-75 |
| Long Blue Ice | 5-6 hours | 1,150-1,450 NOK | £90-115 |
| Panorama Hike | 3-4 hours | 750-950 NOK | £60-75 |
| Combined Kayak + Glacier | Full day | 1,450-1,950 NOK | £115-155 |
| Multi-day Expedition | 2-3 days | 3,500-6,500 NOK | £280-520 |
What’s included:
- All technical equipment
- Certified guide
- Safety briefing and instruction
- Boat crossing (Nigardsbreen tours)
- Equipment fitting and adjustment
- Glacier interpretation and education
Booking Tips
- Reserve in advance: Popular summer dates fill up weeks ahead
- Check cancellation policies: Weather cancellations are typically refunded or rescheduled
- Arrive early: Most tours require arriving 15-30 minutes before start time
- Confirm fitness requirements: Some tours require ability to hike moderate distances
- Consider shoulder season: May and September offer good conditions with fewer crowds
- Book direct with operators: Often provides best prices and flexibility
Combining with Other Activities
Glacier and Kayak
Several operators offer combination tours paddling across glacier-fed lakes before hiking on the ice. The turquoise glacial water and dramatic approach enhance the experience.
The glacier lake’s distinctive colour results from fine rock flour suspended in the water—particles ground to powder by the glacier’s movement across bedrock. This unique water colour photographs beautifully and provides a stunning contrast to the white ice and green valley walls.
Fjord and Glacier Day Trips
From Bergen:
Folgefonna is accessible as a day trip from Bergen via the Hardangerfjord. Combine scenic fjord driving with glacier hiking for a complete western Norway experience. The Hardangerfjord itself, at 179 kilometres, ranks as Norway’s second-longest fjord and offers stunning scenery throughout the journey.
From Flåm:
Nigardsbreen can be combined with the Flåm Railway and fjord cruises. Multi-day itineraries through Sognefjord country include glacier experiences alongside train journeys and fjord exploration.
Multi-Day Adventures
For serious adventurers, multi-day glacier expeditions traverse larger sections of Jostedalsbreen, camping on or near the ice. These require higher fitness levels and are typically arranged through specialised mountain guide companies. Such expeditions offer unparalleled immersion in glacial environments, including overnight experiences on the ice cap itself.
Other Glaciers to Visit
Briksdalsbreen
An easily accessible arm of Jostedalsbreen, Briksdalsbreen can be reached via a short hike without technical equipment. Whilst you cannot walk on the ice without guides, the dramatic glacier tongue descending into a turquoise lake offers incredible photo opportunities.
The 5-kilometre return walk to Briksdalsbreen suits visitors of all fitness levels and provides glacier views without the commitment of a full glacier hike. The approach follows the Briksdalen valley, passing waterfalls and offering constantly changing perspectives of the glacier ahead.
Bøyabreen
Another Jostedalsbreen arm, Bøyabreen is visible from the road and offers roadside viewing of a glacier cascade down steep cliffs. Combined with the nearby Norwegian Glacier Museum in Fjærland, it provides context for understanding glacial geology.
The museum, established in 1991, offers interactive exhibits on glacier formation, climate change, and the history of Norwegian glaciology. A visit here before or after glacier hiking enhances understanding and appreciation of what you’ve experienced.
Svartisen (Northern Norway)
Norway’s second-largest glacier, located further north near Bodø. Svartisen offers glacier hiking experiences with fewer crowds than the southern glaciers and a distinctly Arctic character.
Access typically involves a scenic boat journey followed by a short hike to the glacier edge. The Engabreen arm descends almost to sea level—a remarkable phenomenon that creates unique hiking opportunities.
Conservation and Climate
Norway’s glaciers are retreating—what you see today will look different in decades to come. Nigardsbreen has retreated significantly since measurements began in 1899, and climate projections suggest continued loss throughout this century. The Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate monitors all significant glaciers annually, providing data that tracks these changes with scientific precision.
Visiting these glaciers today connects you with landscapes that future generations may not experience in the same way. Many guides discuss glacier change during tours, providing context for the environmental transformation visible in the ice. Historic photographs at visitor centres show the dramatic extent of retreat over just the past century.
This awareness adds poignancy to glacier hiking—the understanding that you’re experiencing something precious, something changing. Rather than inducing despair, this knowledge often inspires visitors to consider their own environmental impacts and the importance of conservation efforts.
Practical Considerations
Getting There
To Nigardsbreen:
- From Bergen: 4 hours via Rv5/E39
- From Oslo: 6 hours via E16/Rv55
- Nearest town: Sogndal (45 minutes)
- Public transport: Limited bus services; car recommended
To Folgefonna:
- From Bergen: 2-2.5 hours via E16/Rv7
- Via Hardangerfjord: Scenic route options
- Nearest town: Odda (30 minutes)
- Connection: Near Trolltunga base for multi-activity trips
Accommodation Near Glaciers
Jostedalen (Nigardsbreen):
- Mountain lodges and camping
- Luster municipality options
- Sogndal hotels (45 minutes)
Hardangerfjord (Folgefonna):
- Odda hotels and hostels
- Lofthus historic hotels
- Ulvik accommodation
- Camping throughout the region
Season and Weather
| Month | Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| May | Snow possible, cool | Check conditions |
| June | Good conditions, long days | Excellent choice |
| July | Peak season, warmest | Book ahead |
| August | Blue ice appearing | Best ice colour |
| September | Late season, fewer crowds | Good conditions |
| October | Limited availability | Folgefonna only |
Final Thoughts
Glacier hiking in Norway offers a genuinely unique adventure—walking on ancient ice formations that few people ever experience firsthand. With professional guides, proper equipment, and well-organised tours, this otherworldly environment becomes accessible to visitors of nearly all fitness levels and ages. Whether you choose a shorter panorama hike or an extended blue ice expedition, the combination of stunning natural beauty, physical adventure, and connection with ancient frozen landscapes creates memories that last forever.
Norway’s position as Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination 2024 reflects its exceptional offerings in experiences like glacier hiking—activities that combine accessibility with authenticity, adventure with education. The 6.20 million visitors who explored Norway in 2024 discovered what makes these landscapes so compelling; glacier hiking ranks among the most memorable experiences any of them encountered.
Book with reputable operators, respect the ice, and prepare for an adventure unlike anything else.
Find Your Glacier AdventureFor glacier information and tour bookings, visit Fjord Tours Glacier Hikes. Norway tourism statistics from Innovation Norway 2024 annual report. Updated January 2026.