Nordenskiöldtoppen Trekking

Nordenskiöldtoppen Trekking is a guided day hike from Longyearbyen to the top of Nordenskiöldtoppen, which stands at 1051 m and is the highest mountain near the town. Depending on conditions, the group starts at the Cable Car central station (Taubanesentralen) or at Sverdrupbyen. When possible, Greenland dogs come along, though they are sometimes away on longer trips.

The route climbs for about 45 minutes through a narrow valley where Little Auks nest, then crosses the moraine of the Platå Glacier and follows a small ridge. The final stretch before the summit is steep. Along the way guests look at plants such as the Svalbard Poppy, meet Svalbard Reindeer and hear about geologic formations. At the top there is a hot meal and a view over Isfjorden and Longyearbyen. A historic weather station nearby serves as a windbreak. After lunch the group goes down the western ridge if conditions allow, and finishes in Sverdrupbyen.

The tour lasts eight hours and covers 12 km with 1000 m of elevation. Terrain is pathless and includes river crossings, glaciers, moraine, tundra and a rocky ridge. Groups have four to 12 guests. Guests must be 10 to 70 years old. It runs from June to September and departs at 09:00, with pick-up and transport from the accommodation included.

Included are lunch, snacks, hot drinks, rescue insurance, a guide and emergency equipment. Personal travel insurance is not included. Required items are waterproof hiking boots above the ankle, soft shell pants, wind and waterproof jacket and pants, base layers, warm socks, a mid-layer, a hat, mittens or gloves, a day pack of about 30 L and a water bottle. A camera, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended.