Cross-country skiing in the Arctic: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

There is no land at the North Pole, only ice. Between the end of the polar winter and the beginning of the great thaw, there are only a few weeks in which it is possible to ski to the North Pole.

Since 1908, when Robert Peary was the first known person to set foot on the North Pole, it has been the goal of every avid explorer to repeat the feat. In spite of all the advances in modern technology, the list of people who have successfully made it to the North Pole remains quite small.

Part of the reason for this is the time commitment that it requires. Any successful cross-country skiing expedition will ake at least two weeks and most guides require a period of training in a glaciated mountain range prior to the expedition.

Stunning scenery

Skiing across the semi-permanent ice covering over the Arctic is truly a surreal experience. The terrain is expansive and seems to continue infinitely in every direction. At the beginning of the season, as the sun sets, its angle in the sky cast interesting shadows over the landscapes and turns the snow various hues of orange and pink, creating a truly unique view.

The Midnight Sun

Once the polar night ends at the end of March, the days rapidly begin to get longer. From the start to finish of any Arctic cross-country skiing expedition, the sun will begin to set later and later until it feels like the daylight never ends.Skiing under the midnight sun is a truly unforgettable experience and worth heading to the Arctic Circle alone.

Reach the North Pole

Even though it was first reached more than 100 years ago, arriving at the North Pole is a feat few people manage to achieve. That being said, ti is the goal of every arctic explorer and usually the destination of most cross-country skiers headed to this part of the world. Head out next April to brave the elements and arrive at the top of the world!

During April, temperatures in the Arctic generally remain well-below freezing, but the days start to become longer and the sun helps to warm you up. Expect high winds and storms as well during this time of year.

Most trips to the Arctic will begin with a flight into Svalbard Airport (LYR), which can be reached directly from Oslo. Most guides will opt to meet you here and provide transport to the start of the trip.

Most trips are priced in Euros.

April