Best Places for Winter Sports in Norway
Best Places for Winter Sports in Norway
Winter sports culture in Norway is deeply connected to the country's outdoor culture, and many Norwegians enjoy spending time in nature, whether it's skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying the scenery. Winter sports in Norway are also a way to escape the long and dark winters, and the ski resorts and backcountry areas are often bustling with people enjoying the snow and the outdoors. In short, if you're a fan of snow sports, Norway is the place for you.
The best months for winter sports in Norway vary depending on what activity you're doing: generally speaking, December through April are considered prime months for skiing and other winter activities on the slopes; however, December through February is considered prime months for ice skating, cross-country skiing, and sledding. It's important to note that making plans for your trip depends on more than just picking out an ideal month. You should also check the current weather conditions and local forecasts before planning anything.
Now, let’s get the (snow)ball rolling! Here are the best locations for winter sports in Norway.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Hemsedal: Known for its long slopes, snow-sure conditions, and lively après-ski scene.
Trysil: The largest ski resort in Norway, with over 68 slopes and 31 lifts.
Geilo: A popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, with a wide range of slopes for all abilities.
Narvikfjellet: Offers a unique experience with a cable car ride to the top of the mountain and stunning views of the Ofotfjord.
Voss: Offers a mix of challenging and more gentle slopes, as well as excellent off-piste opportunities.
For those wild hearts, check out freeriding locations here.
Toboggan Run
If you're looking for a winter activity that's fun, fast, and gets your blood pumping, why not try tobogganing? While it may seem like something that's only for kids, there are plenty of adults who can't get enough of the thrill of flying down a steep snowy slope in a sled. In fact, Norway is known for its amazing toboggan runs! There are several different ones in Oslo alone, but if you're looking to go outside the city and give it a try yourself, there are tons more options out there. Here are just a few:
Korketrekkeren: This is a famous toboggan run in Oslo. It’s one of the city's oldest and most popular attractions. The run is 1.2 km long and has a total elevation drop of 312 meters, making it one of the steepest toboggan runs in the world. The name "Korketrekkeren" translates to "The Cork Screw" in English, referring to the winding and twisting nature of the track.
Tryvann in Oslo: You can find a variety of toboggan runs here, including an 800-meter-long track with a vertical drop of 100 meters.
Fjellheisene in Voss: Offers a variety of toboggan runs, including a 1.5 km track with a vertical drop of 300 meters.
Norefjell: They have several toboggan runs, including a 2.5 km track with a vertical drop of 450 meters.
Geilo: It’s a 7 km long toboggan run, lit up at night, providing a unique experience for visitors.
Ice Rink and Wild Skating
Frognerparken in Oslo: Home to the famous Frogner Stadion, one of Norway's largest ice-skating rinks. The rink is open during winter and offers public skating and ice hockey.
Stortorvet in Trondheim: A large outdoor rink in the city's heart, popular among locals and visitors alike. The rink is open during the winter season.
Tromsø Outdoor Rink: Tromsø is also known as the city of the northern light; here, you can enjoy the beautiful skating views, and the rink is open during winter.
Stavanger Skøytehall: One of Norway's largest indoor ice-skating rinks, open year-round.
Kristiansand Skøytehall: Another large indoor rink, open year-round and offers public skating sessions and ice hockey.
PRO tip: What makes Norway unique is its nature. To get the best local experience, it’s highly recommended to go wild skating. These frozen lakes and fjords are 100% dependent on the weather conditions and the ice-thickness; therefore, it can be dangerous, and it's important to check the ice conditions and be aware of the risks before heading out. Always research before going wild skating, and you better not go alone. Now, here are some gorgeous and magical wild skating locations in Norway:
The frozen lakes of Rondane National Park
The fjords of Western Norway, such as Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord
The frozen rivers of Trøndelag, such as the Namsen and Gaula
The ice-covered sea in the northern regions of Troms and Finnmark
Oslo area: Maridalsvannet, Bogstadvannet, Sognsvann, Langen
Cross-Country Skiing
There’s a saying in Norway that all Norwegians are born with skis, and a lot of it has to do with the cross-country skiing culture, specifically with some hot tea and chocolate. Soak in the beautiful scenic views while cross-country skiing. Here are some of the best spots:
Rauland: Located in the Telemark region, Rauland is known for its well-groomed cross-country trails and challenging terrain.
Geilo: Offers a mix of classic and skate skiing trails for all abilities and is a popular destination for both recreational skiers and competitive athletes.
Lillehammer: Hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics and offered over 200km of groomed cross-country trails, including the Birkebeinerrennet trail.
Trysil: Known for its long and varied cross-country trails, with terrain suitable for skiers of all abilities.
Sjusjøen: A popular destination for cross-country skiers, with over 150 km of groomed trails and challenging terrain.
Dog Sledding and Reindeer sledding
This activity is not a casual trip on the slopes but will need booking and planning in advance. Plan ahead, research tour operators, and read reviews before booking a dog sledding or reindeer sledding excursion to ensure that the tour is reputable and that the animals are well-treated. Below are some popular dog and reindeer sledding locations across Norway:
Alta: Located in Northern Norway, Alta offers a wide range of dog sledding and reindeer sledding experiences, from short excursions to multi-day expeditions.
Tromsø: Known as the 'Capital of the Arctic,' Tromsø is an excellent destination for dog sledding, with many tour operators offering excursions, including the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Rondane National Park: Offers a beautiful and peaceful setting for dog sledding, with various trails and excursions available.
Kirkenes: Located in the far north of Norway, Kirkenes is a popular destination for dog and reindeer sledding, with many tour operators offering excursions and experiences.
Trysil: Offers a variety of dog sledding excursions, including the chance to try mushing (driving the sled) yourself.
Røros: This region is known for its tradition of dog sledding and reindeer sledding, with many tour operators offering excursions and experiences.
During the winter months, it can be quite rough in Norway with the cold temperatures and long hours of darkness. Despite these conditions, with all these fun activities to do, you might even fall in love with Norwegian winter.
Have fun!