Backcountry Skiing in Iceland: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

In spite of its northerly latitude, Iceland has relatively mild winters compared to similar places as far north because of the Gulf Stream. This makes backcountry skiing very popular as the conditions will be slightly more favourable than in other Scandinavian countries.

Outside of the aforementioned backcountry spots, there are many others as well. Just outside of the capital, Reykjavik, there are plenty of spots to see as well. The Sólheimajökull glacier is just 110 kilometers away from the capital and provides excellent views as well as terrains for backcountry skiing.

Eyjafjordur, just east of the Troll Peninsula, also offers plenty of excellent options. Including some hut-to-hut itineraries that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the Icelandic wilderness.

Stunning scenery

Iceland is full of diverse and stunning scenery. From active volcanoes and mighty glaciers to snow-capped mountains descending into the sea, there is plenty of pristine wilderness to experience. Getting out on your skis gets you away from what little urban development there is here and out into the wilderness. There is nothing quite like skiing from a seaside summit down a fjord and to the seashore!

The Northern Lights

Arriving in Iceland at the beginning of the backcountry skiing season is the perfect chance to see the Northern Lights. This incredible natural phenomenon can be seen best at night from November until March. Heading out into the backcountry increases your chances of seeing the spectacle due to less light pollution. As night falls, keep your eyes peeled skyward!

Ski and sail

Since there is so little development in Iceland, one of the best ways to travel is by boat. Skiing and sailing tours are popular because they allow you to check out a variety of different spots that you would have much more difficulty reaching on land. Seeing Iceland from the water is also an incredible experience and well-worth undertaking. The whole experience is the best of both worlds.

During the beginning of spring, average daily temperatures begin to creep back above freezing. The spring is also slightly drier than the winter, meaning fewer days of snow but plenty of powder already on the ground.

Any trip to Iceland will begin with a flight into either Keflavík International Airport (KEF) or Reykjavik Airport (RKV). From here, it is easy enough to rent a car, take public transport or catch a domestic flight to your final destination.

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