Platåfjellet: Hike with Panorama View over Longyearbyen

The Platåfjellet Panorama Hike is a walk on the mountain just outside Longyearbyen. The trail is steep and climbs about 350 vertical meters to a top with a view over the town, the fjord and the surrounding glaciers. If time and conditions allow, the group often goes further up onto the plateau. In summer, little auks may be seen circling the cliffs. In winter, the hike shows snow-covered mountains and city lights against the dark, and during the polar night the group walks by headlamp only.

The round trip is 3 to 5 km with 400 m of elevation gain, and the tour lasts 3.5 hours. Groups have 2 to 8 participants. From October to February the hike starts at 10:00 and returns by 13:30. From March to September it is an evening hike from 17:00 to 20:30. The tour runs all year.

The guide with safety equipment is included, along with biscuits, coffee and tea. Necessary gear such as snowshoes and a headlamp is provided when needed. Guests bring warm, waterproof hiking boots that cover the ankle, wool base layers, a windproof jacket, outdoor pants, an extra warm layer, a hat, a buff, windproof mittens or gloves, a backpack of 20 to 35 litres and a water bottle. Rental boots are available.

The minimum age is 12. Average physical fitness is enough for this moderately demanding hike on uneven terrain. Guests must be able to communicate in English, and the operator may turn away anyone whose clothing is unsuitable for Arctic hiking. The page does not give a meeting point.