Safety for ski tourers

Before embarking on a ski touring adventure, it is crucial to familiarise yourself with the surroundings and prepare for some testing conditions.

Emergency telephone numbers

The Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) has the overall operational responsibility during mountain search and rescue operations.

51 51 70 00 – JRCC Southern Norway
75 55 90 00 – JRCC Northern Norway

Useful websites

Avalanche forecast
Get avalanche warnings in all of Norway on varsom.no.

Weather forecast
Check the weather conditions in your area on yr.no and senorge.no.

Local conditions
Share and access info about local conditions and download an offline inclination map with the REGOBS-app (App store or Android store).

Norway’s challenging ski terrain, complex weather patterns, and sub-zero temperatures are appreciated by ski tourers, but it is important to be aware of the potential dangers these conditions present. Always check the avalanche risk and plan your trips according to the weather and conditions.

Make sure you get familiar with the Norwegian snow conditions and the nine simple rules of the Norwegian mountain code to help you stay safe.

Prepare for changing conditions

Always start planning your trip at the avalanche forecast varsom.no.
Download the REGOBS-app from App store or Android store. With REGOBS, you can share and access information about local conditions with other people, as well as download an offline inclination map.
Stay updated on the weather conditions in your area with yr.no and senorge.no.

Hire a qualified local ski guide

Ensure that you find the best and safest ski touring options in the area by hiring a local ski guide.

Norway has a complex geography with fast shifting weather patterns, which can make it difficult to unlock the full potential of the current skiing conditions. Local guides have expert knowledge about the quality of the snow and the surrounding terrain, which will reduce the risk of encountering avalanches and other potential dangers.

The International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) offers more than 100 qualified mountain guides who will assure that you find the perfect trip for your level of fitness, skill, and ambition.

Sogndal.
Photo: Sverre Hjørnevik / Fjordnorway.com

Longyearbyen.
Photo: Kristin Folsland Olsen / www.nordnorge.com

Sunnmøre.
Photo: Håvard Myklebust / Visitnorway.com

Skiing in Norway.
Photo: Valentin Rapp

A couple in winter outfits sits on a snow-covered mountain in Sogndal, Norway

A red tent, several skis in the snow and two sledges in a snow-clad landscape in Longyearbyen on Svalbard in Northern Norway

A skier on a slope looking towards several snow-covered mountain peaks at Kolåsbreen, Sunnmøre, Fjord Norway

A group of seven skiers on the snow next to a small road, Norway

What to bring

It can be demanding to reach the best slopes, and it is therefore crucial to pack as light as possible (in a good backpack) without compromising any of the essentials (see the list of what to bring). Before setting off:

Test and familiarize yourself with the emergency equipment.
Remember to pack spare parts in case of breakages along the way.

What to wear

The saying “there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing” is common in Scandinavia, and this is particularly true when it comes to ski touring.

Dress in layers

The best advice is to wear many layers, as this makes it easier to regulate your body temperature.

A tight-fitting base layer made of wool will keep you cool on the uphill and warm on the descent.
A wool or fleece middle layer will help you stay warm.
Light wind and waterproof jacket and trousers as an outer layer will protect you from the elements.

Wear good boots

You need boots specifically designed for ski touring. They should be comfortable and allow good freedom of movement for walking as well as provide stability for skiing.

Use sun protection and snow goggles

You will be surrounded by snow, but the sun can be surprisingly strong. Bring sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect your skin, and shaded snow goggles or sun glasses.