Experience Norway: Skiing under the Northern Lights

Norway, with its breathtaking fjords, vast snowy landscapes, and pristine slopes, offers one of the most magical skiing experiences in the world. But what if you could combine your love for skiing with witnessing the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights? Imagine carving through fresh powder under a sky illuminated by vibrant green and purple hues, this is what skiing in Norway can offer.

So, what makes skiing in Norway special? Tranquility and space in the beautiful Norwegian nature, security of snow, a long winter sport season and rarely any queues at the ski lift. Yet you don't just go to Norway to ski. How about cross-country skiing, dog sledding, relaxing in the spa and the chance to see the northern lights?

Best ski resorts for Northern Lights skiing

While Norway is home to several world-class ski resorts, a few stand out for their exceptional slopes and prime location for viewing the Northern Lights.

Alpine resort of Hemsedal

One of the largest ski areas in Norway is the Hemsedal alpine resort. The village, surrounded by high mountain peaks, lies between the two major Norwegian cities: Oslo and Bergen. For mountain climbing enthusiasts, Hemsedal is popular all year round, but in the winter months, when Hemsedal turns into an award-winning ski resort, the area mainly attracts winter sports enthusiasts.

The ski season starts in November here and lasts until May. Discover 52 spacious and well-groomed slopes for all levels, a large snowboard park and special slopes for beginners. Cross-country skiers can enjoy more than 200 kilometers of trails. Oh, and did we mention that you can find the best apres ski in Scandinavia here? Skål!

Narvikfjellet: Skiing with a view

Located in Northern Norway, Narvikfjellet offers some of the best views of the fjords from the slopes. The resort provides well-groomed runs suitable for all skill levels, and due to its northern latitude, it’s an ideal spot to catch the aurora borealis dancing across the sky.

Tromsø and Lyngen Alps: Backcountry bliss

For those who prefer an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Lyngen Alps near Tromsø offer spectacular backcountry skiing with little to no light pollution—perfect for Northern Lights sightings. Tromsø itself is a hub for winter adventures, with guided ski tours, snowshoeing, and husky sledding.

Lofoten Islands: Skiing meets arctic beauty

The Lofoten Islands are a paradise for adventure-seekers, offering a mix of stunning alpine skiing and breathtaking coastal scenery. The relatively mild coastal climate allows for a unique combination of deep powder and ocean vistas. Since artificial light is scarce, the islands provide one of the best natural viewing spots for the aurora.

Beyond skiing: Arctic adventures under the aurora

Your Norwegian ski trip doesn’t have to be just about hitting the slopes. There are plenty of unique Arctic experiences to make your trip even more memorable.

Husky tours and via ferrata

Although alpine skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions in winter, the valley offers a lot of other activities besides the groomed slopes. Discover the beautiful forests and lakes of Hemsedal during a husky ride or participate in a high speed sled ride over the slopes after they closed.

Other possibilities are snowmobiling and off-piste skiing, just a short walk from the prepared slopes.

You can also participate in via ferrata in the winter: climb to the top of the mountain using a permanent trail of installed ropes, ladders and wires. From the top you have the best view of the Hemsedal valley. 

Ice Hotels and Cozy Cabins

For a truly magical experience, consider staying in an ice hotel or a cozy glass-roofed cabin, where you can watch the aurora borealis dance overhead from the comfort of your bed.

Norwegian Saunas and Spas

After a day of adventure, relax in a traditional Norwegian sauna or indulge in a spa session to warm up and unwind. Many resorts offer outdoor hot tubs with panoramic views, providing the perfect way to take in the Arctic night sky.

When to go? best time for skiing and northern lights in Norway

The best time to ski in Norway and see the Northern Lights is between late November and early April. This period offers optimal snowfall and long, dark nights, perfect conditions for aurora hunting. To maximize your chances, aim for clear skies and avoid areas with heavy artificial lighting.

How do I get there?

Hemsedal is easily accessible. Fly to Oslo, or take the boat from Kiel in northern Germany. It takes about 3.5 hours to drive there from the Norwegian capital. Rent a car or use the buses to the ski area. If you travel by boat, you can bring your own car.

Travel tips for your Northern Lights ski adventure

• Getting there: Fly into Oslo or Tromsø, then take a domestic flight, train, or bus to your ski resort.

• What to pack: Bring thermal layers, waterproof ski gear, and a good camera with a tripod to capture the aurora.

• Booking in advance: Northern Lights season is popular, so book accommodations and ski passes early.

Skiing under the Northern Lights in Norway is an experience like no other. Whether you're racing down the slopes of Narvikfjellet, exploring the backcountry in the Lyngen Alps, or relaxing in a hot tub beneath the aurora, Norway offers a perfect blend of adventure and natural wonder. If witnessing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, why not make it even more extraordinary by experiencing them while skiing?