Svartisen Glacier

With it's 369 square kilometres, Svartisen is Norways second largest glacier. It is located in the county of Nordland in Northern Norway, south of the costal city Bodø.

"Svartisen" is actually the collective term for two separate glaciers, Vestisen and the Østisen. These two glaciers are separated by the 1 km. long Vesterdalen valley and collectively make up the Svartisen Glacier.

Svartisen is located in the Saltfjell mountain range, one of the largest mountain ranges in Norway. The Arctic Circle cuts through the southern part of the glacier and there are also a number of minor glaciers around Svartisen, including Glombreen and Simlebreen.

Runoff water from the glacier is used for hydropower production and Svartisen Power Plant is one of Norway's largest power plants. The Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) has monitored the glaciers mass balance since the 1970s and also operates a sub-glacial laboratory beneath Engabreen. Here researchers can study the glacier from beneath 200 meters of ice.

Glacier Hike - Svartisen, Helgeland, NOrway

Facts about Svartisen

Svartisen is 369 sq.km big and consists of Vestisen (221 sq.km) and Østisen (148 sq.km)
Mount Snøtinden is the largest mountain that protrudes from the ice and has a height of 1594 metres
The glacier has changed and shrunk considerably the last 50 years, mainly due to climate changes
The name Svartisen comes from the old Norwegian word "svartis", which denotes the deep blue color of the ice, and the contrast of the white snow and newer ice on the ice plateau
You can explore Svartisen on several glacier hikes, but always remember to book through a certified provider with professional guides. Hiking on the glacier on your own is very dangerous and not recommended

The best arctic experiences

Check out our exciting collection of activities in the arctic here!

Adventurous in Norway

Experience Trolltunga on your tour

Get ready for a true Norwegian mountain adventure! Soaring 1,180 meters above sea level, Trolltunga is one of Norway's most famous landmarks. A hike to the top is a memorable (and Instagramable) experience.

Why Everyone Needs to Try Surfing At Least Once

When people think of Norway, chances are that they think of the majestic fjords around Bergen, the cosmopolitanism of Oslo with cultural highlights like the Vigeland Park and the Munch museum. However, something that is very big in Norway that many people might not know about is its thriving surfing culture.

Where to Experience the Best Freeriding Areas In Norway

It is no surprise that Norway is well known for its exceptional skiing since world-class ski resorts are placed all throughout the country. However, sometimes skiing at a traditional ski resort is too conventional for thrill-seeking, adventurous travellers. If that’s the case for you, then freeriding in Norway might just be the excursion of your wildest dreams.

Dog-sledding in Norway

Dog-sledding in Norway is one of the most quintessential Scandinavian experiences you can have. It’s one of the most popular outdoor activities for travellers to the Nordic countries. Feel the power of these Norwegian dogs as they race across the snow, and immerse yourself in this entertaining and unique adventure during your visit to Norway!