Trollsteinen: Hike to the iconic summit

Svalbard Wildlife runs a guided day hike to Trollsteinen, a rock formation on a summit 850 metres above sea level near Longyearbyen. The route begins on the same path as the operator's Sarkofagen tour, in glacial moraine terrain. Guests may wade small rivers in summer or follow a snow-filled riverbed in winter. The climb is steady with some steeper parts, passes beneath Sarkofagen and continues onto a glacier, where the slope eases. The last section crosses a narrow ridge, and the guide picks the path. The summit looks out across the surrounding peaks and valleys.

The round trip is 9 to 11 km with 750 m of elevation gain and takes seven hours. Groups have 2 to 8 participants. Hotel pick-up is at 09:00 and the return is by 16:00. The tour includes a guide with safety equipment, a warm lunch, coffee and tea, and hiking poles and spikes when they are 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. Muck Boots can be rented. The operator may refuse anyone who is not dressed properly for the conditions.

The minimum age is 16. The page rates difficulty 5 out of 5 and says the hike suits people in good physical condition, since the terrain is rocky and uneven with steep sections. Participants must be able to communicate in English.