Sarkofagen circumnavigation

Frostbite Expeditions runs a guided day hike that loops around Sarkofagen, the mountain between Larsbreen and Longyearbreen above Longyearbyen. The walk starts in Nybyen, at the top end of town, and heads up the valley before circling the mountain. The terrain varies: riverbeds, moraine, loose rock and some steeper mountain sections. Depending on season and conditions, parts of the route can cross or follow glacier ice.

Along the way the views change between Larsbreen, Longyearbreen, Longyearbyen and the surrounding valleys. In clear weather Isfjorden can also be seen. The guide talks about the glaciers, the geology, local wildlife and the mining history of the Longyearbyen area. There is a lunch stop with hot food and drinks, plus brief rests, before the walk returns toward town.

The tour runs from 08:30 to 14:30, about six hours, over a round trip of 9 km. Frostbite Expeditions' page gives the elevation gain as about 500 metres in the text and 450 m in the facts list. Difficulty is rated 3 to 4, and the group has up to eight participants. The minimum age is 12. The operator calls the hike physically demanding, on uneven ground that can be slippery. No glacier experience is needed, but good fitness and suitable hiking footwear are required. It runs all year round.

Included are hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide with safety equipment, lunch, snacks, hot drinks, liability and SAR insurance, and hiking poles, microspikes and a headlamp if needed. Guests bring warm waterproof boots that cover the ankle, wool base layers, a windproof jacket and outdoor trousers, an extra warm layer, a hat, a buff, windproof mittens or gloves, a backpack and a water bottle.