Midnight Ski touring, Backyard Svalbard

This is a guided midnight ski touring trip in the mountains around Longyearbyen, run by Backyard Svalbard. During the midnight sun season the light lasts 24 hours, and the group climbs with skins to a ridge or summit, then skis down new lines back toward Longyearbyen. The guide picks the mountain on the day, based on snow conditions and safety. At the top the group stops for a warm drink and a small snack.

The tour lasts five hours. It runs from 5 April to 15 May. Each guide takes a maximum of six guests. The guide is a certified Svalbard ski expert, and the tour is held in English, so guests must speak it. The operator applies a 0 per mille alcohol limit.

Included are pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Longyearbyen, snacks, coffee or tea, SAR insurance, and a guide who carries safety gear and protection against polar bears. Ski and avalanche equipment can be rented as an extra, and the operator needs your ski, boot and helmet size for this. Guests who bring their own need touring skis, climbing skins, poles, boots and a helmet, plus a transceiver, a shovel, a probe and a 35 to 45 litre backpack. Flights, hotel nights and travel insurance are not included.

The difficulty is 4 out of 5, for intermediate to advanced skiers. Guests should have off-piste experience, be comfortable in variable snow and steep terrain, enjoy climbing with skins and have a good fitness level. The tour is not for complete backcountry beginners or for people who want ski touring lessons. The guide meets guests at their accommodation in Longyearbyen, gives a briefing and checks equipment before heading out.