Backcountry Skiing at Juva Cabin
The end of April and May is the ideal time for alpine skiing on Spitsbergen. The sun never sets, and we can use that time of day when the weather is best.
During the tour we will explore the mountains in the inner part of Adventdalen, and its side valleys. The area boasts peaks of up to 1128 metres, but most reach 700–900 metres. A great variety of options are available, from steep downhill runs to broad sweeping slopes – perfect for big swings. The Arctic wilderness will be our untouched white canvas, and we will plan each day based on the weather, snow conditions and our sense of adventure!
On the first day, we will drive with snowmobiles from Longyearbyen to the Juva Cabin. This cabin will be our comfortable basecamp for the three days we are out and about. Juva Cabin is situated in a beautiful area, where the valleys Adventdalen and Eskerdalen meet. It’s a gorgeous cabin which sleeps up to 10 people. Complete with a lounge room, kitchen, three bedrooms (and a sauna!) there is plenty of space for small groups who wish to experience an exclusive stay in the midst of the wilderness. The views from the cabin are stunning, especially towards Drønnbremassivet and Skolten, which at 1128m is the highest mountain in Nordenskiöldland.
For this tour you will need skiing equipment that is suited for backcountry. This means alpine touring skis (randonnée) or powerful telemark gear. Split board is also an option if you are used to this equipment. Snowboard and snowshoes are not recommended, and the same applies for alpine skis with hiking adaptors (alpine trekkers). It is preferable that your gear has been tested before, but it should not be worn out. Personal safety equipment (spade, avalanche probe and avalanche beacon) is obligatory.
Skis
Middle width 83-95mm is most appropriate given the snow conditions and weight. Tech-bindings are useful.
Poles
We suggest light, adjustable poles with a medium sized baskets.
Skins
To suit your skis. Ski crampons are not mandatory, but recommended for comfortable and secure hiking on hard snow.
Bag or backpack for personal equipment
Please note: We have limited space on the snowmobile sleds. A waterproof duffel bag or a 40-60L rucksack is great to pack in. Suitcases are not recommended.Licence to drive car or motorcycle
Suitcase/bag that can be left in Longyearbyen with clothes etc. that you don't need on the trip
Warm hat
Scarf or fleece neck/buff
1-2 pairs of gloves or mittens (we recommend wool)
2 sets of long underwear (long johns and top, we recommend wool)
Thick and warm wool sweater or fleece jacket/sweater
3 pairs of thick woolen socks
1 pair of warm and windproof trousers
Down jacket
1-2 sets of comfortable clothes for use at the hotel and at the Juva Cabin
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Contact lenses (for those who wear glasses)
Indoor shoes for use at the Juva Cabin
Binoculars
Camera in waterproof case, extra memory card and battery charger
Sun and cold cream
You will receive a full packing list before departure. Remember that Svalbard is tax and duty free, so if you are missing something you can always purchase quality equipment in our stores.
The plan for each day will vary, and will be adjusted to suit the snow, weather and the wishes and skills of the participants. Generally we would expect to hike 700-1000m of elevation each day and we may set up road trips and/or climb several peaks in the same trip. We will hike at a relatively relaxed tempo, in order to enjoy the surroundings and save our energy for the descent.
We will use snowmobiles to reach the cabin, and they can also be useful in getting us closer to the mountains we will seek to conquer.
Three days at a cabin with likeminded people provides fantastic opportunities for an incredible weekend. In the evenings, we enjoy good food in good company – and maybe a cold beer in the sauna!
Included in the price:
Two nights in a cabin
Meals and drinks during the tour
Rental of snowmobile incl. fuel
Snowmobile clothing
Experienced guide with all necessary safety equipment
Search and rescue insurance
Not included:
Flights
Accommodation and meals in Longyearbyen before/after the tour
Personal skiing equipment
Personal clothing and equipment
Travel insurance
3 days of ski touring
2 nights in the Juva Cabin
This trip is organised on request. If you wish to book or have any questions, please send us a booking inquiry.
from NOK 12 995
per person