Fun things to do without skis in Norway

No skis? No problem! There are plenty of fun winter activities in Norway. From dog sledding and tobogganing to safari and steaming hot saunas – get the best tips here.

During winter, large parts of Norway is usually transformed into a snow-covered haven for people who enjoy the great outdoors.

It’s no secret that skiing is deeply rooted in our traditions, and it’s still a big part of the Norwegian lifestyle. However, there are many other fun things to do that don’t require skis, whether you’re travelling in the mountains, in a city, or along the coast.

If you are in Norway during your winter break, these are some of the best winter activities to try.

Be a musher for a day

Join a dog sledding tour and get to know our four-legged friends who’s eager to show you the white wilderness. Try your hand as a musher and steer your own pack of dogs for several days, or enjoy the view as a passenger on a one-day dog sledding trip.

You will often get the chance to feed and look after the huskies yourself, something that will appeal to dog lovers everywhere. Below you’ll find some of the most popular dog sledding offers.

Find your inner child on a sledge

There is no point in denying it: jetting down snow-covered slopes on sledges are as fun for adults as it is for children. And whether you want to try your luck in a frozen luge track or just cruise down a toboggan run, you’ll find many alternatives in Norway.

From south to north, several operators are ready to welcome riders on all levels. In addition to the offers below, many ski resorts and ski centres have their own sledge tracks that are prepped to perfection. Are you ready?

Stay on top of winter with snowshoes

Many of us wonder how it’s like to walk on clouds. Well, snowshoeing is probably the closest feeling we’ll get. With a pair of snowshoes, it doesn’t matter how deep the snow is – you can cruise through the white landscape without problems.

Join a guided hiking tour and experience the crisp winter air, snow-draped trees, and white mountains.

But don’t forget to take a break during your stroll in the mountains. In Norway, hiking trips go hand in hand with chocolate-covered wafer bars, oranges, and warm drinks.

Winter safari

Wait, what? Safari in winter? Well, of course! The Norwegian wildlife is unique in so many ways, and some experiences are even cooler as the temperatures drop.

Above the Arctic Circle, you can sign up for a whale safari and get close to Humpbacks and Orcas. Or maybe you’re a fan of shellfish? Then a king crab safari is just what you need. Not only will you be able to help fetch king crabs from the crab pots, as some tour providers host a delicious dinner afterwards! And there’s no need to say what the main ingredient will be, right?

You can also get a glimpse of the mighty musk oxen during winter. They reside in the Dovrefjell mountains of Eastern Norway, and they truly are a sight to behold. But don’t let their massive size fool you. These rugged animals are super-fast, so the safest way to observe them is from a distance on a guided tour.

Ice fishing – a hole lot of fun

Countless lakes and rivers and an impressive coastline mean outstanding opportunities to catch fish here in Norway. During wintertime, most of the lakes and fjords are frozen, but that shouldn’t stop you from trying your fishing luck.

Drill a hole, throw the line into the water, and wait. Nothing beats the exciting feeling you get when you’re waiting for a fish to swim by.

Remember to be careful, though. Listen to tour guides, and stay off the ice if you don’t know for sure that it’s safe.

Go on a relaxing sleigh ride

Imagine sitting in a horse-drawn sleigh underneath a sheepskin blanket. The horse pulls you through an idyllic village in a leisurely pace, and the only thing you can hear is the sound of the sleigh’s bells and the rhythmic beat from the horse’s hooves. Sounds good?

Many operators in Norway offer sleigh tours, and if you travel up north, you might even get the chance to be drawn by reindeer across the white plains of Finnmark. It’s not just an exciting activity, it’s a great way to get a taste of what life was like in the old days, when horses and reindeer were amongst our most faithful servants.

Watch Aurora dance

Imagine sitting outside in the dark, all snuggled up by the fire as the world’s most mesmerising lightshow begins.

Every winter, people travel far to experience the northern lights, and Northern Norway is a prime spot. You can travel by yourself, but we do recommend joining a guided tour. The guides are up to date on the weather conditions and can take you to the locations where you’ll have the best chance of watching the Aurora.

Hot tip: If you plan on signing up for a photo tour – get expert advice on how to photograph the northern lights.

Hit the ice on skates

Norway has a long skating tradition and has produced many world champions over the years. And whether you are as elegant as Sonja Henie, as fast as Johan Olav Koss, or have trouble just keeping your balance, skating is all about having fun. Outdoor skating rinks are found in most cities and towns in Norway.

During winter, you can also go skating on a number of frozen lakes, rivers, and fjords. However, make sure the ice is safe before venturing out. Ask locals, look for signposts, or drill a hole and check the thickness yourself.

Skates can be hired at most manned skating rinks, but if you want to go skating anywhere else, you must bring your own equipment.

Heat up in a sauna

Norwegian winters can be really cold – but you can still find warm experiences to thaw your frozen fingers and nose.

New and stylish saunas are popping up across the country, all with spectacular locations! Enjoy the warm air below the northern lights, near the fjords, or even in the middle of the capital.

If you want to connect with your inner Viking, heat up before you go for a dip in the fjord or the snow! This is an invigorating experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and awake.

Local weather and climate

In winter, the average temperature in Norway is -6.8 degrees Celsius, but the local conditions may vary quite a lot. Around Oslo, snowfall is common and the average winter temperatures are just below zero.

The lower inland areas of Finnmark, Troms, Trøndelag, and Eastern Norway might have very cold winters with lots of snow.

The inland areas of Northern Norway have an Arctic climate with snow and cold temperatures: However, the climate is usually much milder in coastal areas, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Strong winds occur frequently.

The coastal areas of Fjord Norway and Southern Norway also enjoy a milder climate, with temperatures around 0 degrees Celsius at sea level. However, much of the region is snowy and cold, which makes for good skiing conditions, especially in the mountains.

How to dress for winter in Norway

If you are heading high up or far north – or both, for that matter – dress warmly and in layers. Use wool rather than cotton or polyester, and make sure you can protect yourself from getting wet and being caught in the wind.

Wind chill factor will make you feel much colder than the temperature actually says, and this effect will get worse the stronger the wind. If you’re wet, hypothermia and frostbite may not be far away – unless you are well prepared and dressed.

Find winter activities all over Norway

Check out and read more about some of the best winter activity spots.

Featured

Dog sledding

Dog sledding in Bolterdalen - Green Dog Svalbard

In pairs, you will take turns mushing (driving a dog sledge team) a team of 5-6 dogs. You will experience the dynamics of the dog-sledge team and will… Read more

Dog sledding in Bolterdalen - Green Dog Svalbard

Dog sledding with Beito Husky Tours

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6-day Dogsledding Expedition to the East Coast of Svalbard - Arctic Husky Travellers

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Dog Sledding on wheels

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Arctic Dog Sledding - Svalbard Husky

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Polar Night Adventure: Dogsledding, Lunch, and Stories of a Sled Dog's Life - Arctic Husky Travellers

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Polar Night Adventure: Dogsledding, Lunch, and Stories of a Sled Dog's Life - Arctic Husky Travellers

RørosHusky- Dogsledding

We arrange sleddog-trips at wintertime, where you can mush "your own" dog-team; 4- 6 dogs. Longer trips (expeditions) will take place up in the… Read more

RørosHusky- Dogsledding

Dog sledding at Sjusjøen Husky Tours

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Dog Sledding Day Trip in Bodø, Northern Norway

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Dog sledding near Hovden

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Dog Sledding | Venabu Fjellhotell

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A taste of dog sledding - Trasti & Trine

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Dog Sledding Tours in Sjodalen-Jotunheimen

Care to try? We have slopes for everyone. Perfect for families and friends, birthday parties and companies / Team building. Read more

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Ice fishing

Ice fishing near Clarion Collection Hotel Grand

Fishing on Mjøsa (Norways largest lake), Eina, Ihle and Landåsvatnet, check the links below to see details for each fishing area. Clarion… Read more

Ice fishing near Clarion Collection Hotel Grand

Ice fishing near Sillongen

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Ice fishing near Gjøvik Hostel Hovdetun

When you stay at Gjøvik Hostel Hovdetun you are just a quick drive from a lot af good fishing spots, like Einavatnet, Ihle and Landåsvatnet. Right… Read more

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Ice fishing near Quality Hotel Strand

Ice fishing near Quality Hotel Strand Just a stone's throw from Strand Hotel you can fish for trout and pike in Mjøsa, Norway's greatest lake with… Read more

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Ice fishing near Sveastranda

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Ice fishing at Skjækra

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Ice fishing near Lyngstrand Camping

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Ice fishing near Fjordtitt

Fishing near Fjordtitt Being located right by the Eina Fjord, Fjordtitt is great for Perch- and Pike fishing the entire year. Some other good fishing… Read more

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Ice fishing on the fjord in Lyngen - XLyngen

During the cold winter months the sea in Nord-Lenangen in Lyngen freezes, making it perfect for ice fishing. It's possible to catch cod and haddock.… Read more

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Jigging Ål in Hallingdal

Vatsfjorden and Rødungen are among southern Norway's best fishing lakes. The ice is normally safe in January, but always ask advice from local experts… Read more

Jigging Ål in Hallingdal

Ice fishing

Ice fishing for arctic char, trout, grayling or pike. We have cabins with sauna on the mountains at the fishing lakes. Neiden mountainarea has water… Read more

Ice fishing

Now it's time for ice fishing

Bring your whole family or friends on an ice fishing day. Bring an adventure of excitement and adventure to a beautiful winter lake. Read more

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Ice fishing - Nordic Safari

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Ice fishing - Vinternatt

Join us at the Ustedalsfjord on a quiet day where we drill holes thru the ice. Ice fishing is for the whole family. It's never good to know when… Read more

Ice fishing - Vinternatt

Ice skating

Ice skating rink in Kristiansand

Go ice skating in Kristiansand city center. Read more

Ice skating rink in Kristiansand

Arendal artificial ice rink

The skating rink in Arendal is open from November to March, and the rink is perfect for speed skating, bandy, ice hockey and playing on the ice. Read more

Arendal artificial ice rink

Vingnesvika ice skating track

Vingnesvika ice skating track is suitable for all, and welcomes schoolchildren and recreational exercisers as well as tourists. Read more

Vingnesvika ice skating track

Ice Skating Hallingdal Feriepark

In Hallingdal Feriepark you can go iceskating during part of the winterseason. The rink is located behind the activity… Read more

Ice Skating Hallingdal Feriepark

Ice skating

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Ice skating

Frogner Ice Skating Rink

Outdoor ice skating at Frogner stadion, open in the winter season. Read more

Frogner Ice Skating Rink

Spikersuppa Ice Skating Rink

The Spikersuppa ice skating rink in the middle of Oslo city centre is open and free for everybody. Read more

Spikersuppa Ice Skating Rink

Skating rink at Hovden

Skating rink from December to March Read more

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Saunas in Norway

Floating saunas at Gausta

At the lake Kvitåvatn at destination Gausta, two floating saunas are situated, with a beautiful view towards Gaustatoppen. Read more

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Floating Saunas at Preikestolen BaseCamp

Enjoy a perfect start to the morning, or unwind after a day in the mountains, aboard one of Preikestolen BaseCamp's floating saunas, close to the… Read more

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Oslofjord Spa

At Oslofjord Spa's floating saunas, you get an urban, Nordic experience right next to the popular Aker Brygge area in Oslo city centre. From… Read more

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Grønsand Forest Sauna

Customised wood-fired sauna by the lake Hestehagedammen with view of the lake. Enjoy the peace and the heat and pamper yourself to an unforgettable… Read more

Grønsand Forest Sauna

Heit Sørfjorden Sauna

Heit Sørfjorden Sauna offers a steaming sauna and a fresh bath in the fjord! Enjoy the view of the fjord, mountains, and glaciers from the… Read more

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Sauna - Iglucrafts Iglusauna by Konglehytta

The unique and beautiful Iglucraft sauna is simple and charming. It accommodates 4 people and the oval shape gives you a great feeling. Through the… Read more

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Saunas on Træna

Saunas with a view really are something special and on the island of Træna on the Helgeland coast there are two of them. The island is situated 33… Read more

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Saunas at Hurdalsjøen Hotel

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Soria Moria Sauna

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Varm i Vollen - floating sauna

Enjoy the revitalizing combination of a steaming sauna and a refreshing bath in the sea all year round! Read more

Varm i Vollen - floating sauna

See the northern lights

Man with headlamp looking at the northern lights during winter in Helgeland

Northern lights in Helgeland

Cross the Arctic Circle and get access to Helgeland’s thousands of islands and fairytale-like mountain formations and pristine snowsure… Read more

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Sleigh rides

Horse Sleigh Rides | Venabu Fjellhotell

Horse sleigh rides Read more

Horse Sleigh Rides | Venabu Fjellhotell

Horse drawn sleigh Ål in Hallingdal

A ride in a horse-drawn sleigh under a starry sky is guaranteed to put you in a romantic mood, particularly when it is followed by a tasty meal and a… Read more

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Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride - Geilo hestesenter

We provide a pickup service at all the hotels or at any prearranged place and take a leisurly tour lasting around 45 minutes. We supply lovely warm… Read more

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride - Geilo hestesenter

Sleigh ride in Trysil

Join us on a sleigh ride, a small winter adventure in the deep forest of Trysil. Included is a stop with delicious elggryte (elk stew), and the kids… Read more

Sleigh ride in Trysil

Sledding

Aasgjerdet Alpine and toboggan run

A wonderful area for ski activity – in the middle of Røros town centre. A favourite for families with children. Reached easily on foot from… Read more

Aasgjerdet Alpine and toboggan run

Storefjell Ski and Sledding Centre

Storefjell Ski- and Toboggan Centre is located right next to the Storefjell Resort Hotel. The ski centre has three lifts and eight slopes of varying… Read more

Storefjell Ski and Sledding Centre

Lillehammer Olympic Bob- and Luge Track

The only bobsleigh and luge track in Scandinavia. Wheelbob available throughout the summer season. Read more

Lillehammer Olympic Bob- and Luge Track

Toboggan run: Korketrekkeren

Full speed down Oslo's most popular toboggan run. Read more

Toboggan run: Korketrekkeren

Storefjell Ski- and Sledding center

The centre has a family friendly ski tow with a separate sledding slope, park with jumps and rails, a warming room, ski rental and immediate access to… Read more

Storefjell Ski- and Sledding center

Toboggan in Hallingdal Feriepark

Hallingdal Feriepark had its own toboggan hill! Near the cottages the kids can have a great time sledding for hours. You can rent sledges… Read more

Toboggan in Hallingdal Feriepark

Sledge-track

Come to Rjukan and try the longest sledge-hill (with lift) in Norway. Read more

Sledge-track

Tobogganing in Kanthaugen Freestyle Arena

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Airboarding

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Airboarding

Skarslia Ski- og akesenter (ski and sledding)

Located in the Bergsjø area, Skarslia is perfect for families. Skarslia offers fantastic sledding hills, well-prepared downhill slopes for… Read more

Skarslia Ski- og akesenter (ski and sledding)

Snowshoeing

Snowshoe hike to Stegastein viewpoint

Come and experience the Norwegian winter on snowshoes in Aurland! Read more

Snowshoe hike to Stegastein viewpoint

SnowhotelKirkenes - Snowshoe walking

Arctic footsteps in the snow. Our guide will give you a lesson in the use of snowshoes and take you up into the unspoiled mountain ranges above… Read more

SnowhotelKirkenes - Snowshoe walking

Snow Shoe Hiking Årdal

Do you want to experience winter landscape, but feel like long ski trips is not your thing? Try hiking with snow shoes! Our guides will take you on a… Read more

Snow Shoe Hiking Årdal

Snowshoe hike in the Lyngen Alps - XLyngen

We will take you for a snowshoe walk in the valleys of the Lyngen Alps or along the coastline with beautiful views of the open sea. Read more

Snowshoe hike in the Lyngen Alps - XLyngen

A snowshoe adventure

Anyone who masters the art of walking, can use snowshoes. Modern snowshoes do not require specific skills; after a while you hardly notice them! Take… Read more

A snowshoe adventure

Snowshoeing at Mokk Farm

Join us on a guided snowshoe tour in the beautiful hiking terrains around Mokk Farm. Snowshoes are easy to walk with, and provides an experience… Read more

Snowshoeing at Mokk Farm

Snowshoeing in Valldal - The Adventure Valley

Welcome to winter paradise. Our area can offer you untouched snow, traditional mountain farms, deep forests and amazing fjord view. With a pair a… Read more

Snowshoeing in Valldal - The Adventure Valley

Snowshoeing with guide - A taste of winter

Is it your dream to experience untouched snow, magnificent fjord views, deep forests and mountain farms? Try snowshoeing as a special way of doing… Read more

Snowshoeing with guide - A taste of winter

Snowshoeing with guide Geiranger - A taste of winter

Is it your dream to experience untouched snow, magnificent fjord views, deep forests and mountain farms? Try snowshoeing as a special way of doing… Read more

Snowshoeing with guide Geiranger - A taste of winter

Snowshoe rental at Slaatta

Would you like to try something new or find an alternative activity for skiing and walking? Read more

Snowshoe rental at Slaatta

Local favourites - snowshoe trip to Keipen

Experience the region's most fantastic view of fjords and mountains on Keipen. From 950 NOK. Read more

Local favourites - snowshoe trip to Keipen

Snowshoe walk in Lyngen - Svensby Tursenter

Join us for a two- three hour snowshoe walk in the Lyngen region and enjoy wonderful views of the pointed Jægervasstindene/Lyngen Alps. The guide will… Read more

Snowshoe walk in Lyngen - Svensby Tursenter

Snowshoeing- rental and guided tours | Pellestova Hotel

Snowshoes gives you the opportunity to explore our beautiful winter landscape on foot Read more

Snowshoeing- rental and guided tours | Pellestova Hotel

Snowshoe hike to Paradisjuvet

Bulder & Brak in Årdal take you on a guided snowshoe trip to Paradisjuvet which gives you a view of the majestic Sognefjord. Read more

Snowshoe hike to Paradisjuvet

Snowshoe Hiking Skjolden

SNOWSHOE HIKING Let’s go on a Norwegian snowshoe adventure! Try hiking in deep snow and enjoy amazing views of frozen fjords and mountains.… Read more

Snowshoe Hiking Skjolden

Winter safari

Whale safari from Andenes - Winter (big boat)

Experience the whales in a fantastic winter light from October to April on one of our winter safaris. Whale Safari Andenes has 30 years of experience… Read more

Whale safari from Andenes - Winter (big boat)

Silent Whale Watching

This tour is conducted by Brim Explorer. Get a unique perspective on the magnificent Humpback Whales and Orcas as they feed in the herring-rich fjords… Read more

Silent Whale Watching

Snowhotel Kirkenes - King crab safari

We pick you up your hotel and transport you to Snowhotel Kirkenes. Read more

Snowhotel Kirkenes - King crab safari

From sea to shore, the wondrous world of the king crab

Meeting the local wildlife isn’t as easy as one might think, knowing that many of them live far beneath the surface of the sea. Join us for a king… Read more

From sea to shore, the wondrous world of the king crab

Photo safari with guide, winter season.

Wild, beautiful, white, rough, musk ox, Dovrefjell National Park, landscape, ski / snowshoe, memories for life. Sleeping in a tent/cottage or snow… Read more

Photo safari with guide, winter season.

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Hotels

Getting Here & Around

Tours & Round trips

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Alpine mountain resorts

Offers

Fun things to do without skis

Be a musher for a day

Find your inner child on a sledge

Stay on top of winter with snowshoes

Winter safari

Ice fishing – a hole lot of fun

Go on a relaxing sleigh ride

Watch Aurora dance

Hit the ice on skates

Heat up in a sauna

Find winter activities all over Norway

Explore the great outdoors

Take advantage of top offers

Find things to do without skis

Discover more

Hotels

Getting Here & Around

Tours & Round trips

Cottages & Holiday Houses

Alpine mountain resorts

Offers

Fun things to do without skis

Be a musher for a day

Find your inner child on a sledge

Stay on top of winter with snowshoes

Winter safari

Ice fishing – a hole lot of fun

Go on a relaxing sleigh ride

Watch Aurora dance

Hit the ice on skates

Heat up in a sauna

Find winter activities all over Norway

Explore the great outdoors

Take advantage of top offers

Find things to do without skis

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