Husky Snowshoe Hike & Husky Camp Visit from Tromso

Kvaløya, the mountain island west of Tromsø

Kvaløya is the large island just across the Sandnessund Bridge from Tromsø, and it is where many locals go to hike, ski and walk their dogs. Its interior is a world of rounded mountains, birch woods, frozen lakes and deep valleys, while its coast opens onto fjords and the open sea. In winter the whole island is covered in thick snow, perfect for snowshoeing.

The drive from the city is short, so you spend most of the trip outdoors rather than on the road. If you are looking for snowshoeing in Tromsø with real wilderness feeling, Kvaløya is the obvious choice: within minutes of leaving the bus you are surrounded by silence, with only the crunch of snow and the panting of the dogs.

The snowshoe hike with huskies

Snowshoes spread your weight so you can walk on top of deep snow instead of sinking into it, and the technique takes only a few minutes to learn. Your guide fits you with snowshoes and poles and sets an easy pace, so the hike suits beginners with normal fitness. The exact route depends on the weather and the wishes of the group.

A husky, sometimes two, joins the walk, pulling eagerly on its lead and stopping to roll in the snow. For locals, hiking is the most personal way to experience nature, and the guide invites you to slow down and enjoy the views of white peaks and sea. In December and January, during the polar night, the hike takes place in soft blue twilight.

Cake and coffee in the snow

On clear days the group stops on the trail for a well-earned break: freshly baked chocolate cake with coffee or tea, enjoyed with a view over the mountains and fjords around Kvaløya. Sitting in the snow with a hot drink and a husky curled up nearby is one of the moments guests remember most.

If the weather is rough, the break moves back to the husky camp, where the snack is served around an open fire. Either way, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress in warm layers under the overalls and bring your own gloves, a hat and snow goggles, which are not included. Sunglasses are a good alternative on bright days in February and March, when the sun reflects strongly off the snow.

The husky camp and its puppies

The tour ends at a husky camp on the island, where a large pack of Alaskan huskies lives. These are working sled dogs, bred for speed, stamina and a friendly nature, and they live outdoors all year in the Arctic climate. The handlers explain how the dogs are cared for and how they train for sledding.

The highlight for many guests is the puppies: depending on the season, there are young dogs to cuddle and play with in the snow. You have time to walk around the dog yard and take photos before the bus heads back to Tromsø. The whole trip lasts about five hours, leaving the afternoon free.