Guided Skitouring Arnøya & Kågen
Pure summit to sea skiing
Guided ski touring on Arnøya and Kågen—two islands full of ski terrain and pure summit-to-sea skiing. I have been guiding here for over 10 years, pioneering the island for ski touring. These two islands continue to be my absolute favourite spots, even after all these seasons. Mountains, glaciers and ocean—it’s just a unique place. Some terrain here gets rarely skied because only a few people know the place well. Year after year, I come back—the summit-to-sea skiing, lovely accommodation and local food are a combination that also makes many of my guests return repeatedly.
Compared to more popular places in Northern Norway (e.g., Lyngen or Lofoten), Arnøya and Kågen have wide open slopes; bushes or trees are mostly absent. Combined with a snow-rich climate, Arnøya allows for skiing from summits right to the coastline well into May. Summits range from 600 m to 1228 m, with countless ski options on all aspects. Arnøyhøgda (1168 m) is among the most rewarding summits to climb and ski, while the smaller peaks with straight runs to the sea are guest favourites. Here, we often do several laps where the skiing is best. The tours on the neighboring island Kågen—my absolute favourite—have a more alpine feel, with glaciers, steep slopes and terrain for all skill levels, culminating in the great Store Kågtinden (1228 m).
The time frame for this trip is early April into May. At this time, the snowpack has typically stabilised, and the days are long. In April, it is not uncommon to have corn snow on south-facing slopes and powdery snow on the north aspects. In May, the sun only sets for a few hours, allowing for flexible tour planning and long days out.
Accommodation
We are based on the island of Arnøya. Accommodation is at Lauksletta Overnatting, with cosy rooms and excellent, abundant food—a guest favourite since 2015. Several tours start directly at the house. Warm waffles, cake, and coffee or tea await us each day after skiing.
Logistics
The tours typically run for 6 days, Sunday to Saturday. One way to reach Arnøya is by driving (4–5 hours). A faster, more convenient option is the speedboat from Tromsø to Skjervøy. I meet you in Tromsø or Skjervøy and transfer you to the accommodation. The boat leaves at 14:30 on Sundays and arrives at 16:40 in Skjervøy. On the last day, we take the Hurtigruten back (16:45–23:45). Alternatively, you can return Sunday via speedboat (17:30–19:50). Both options allow skiing on the last day. Prices for boat tickets are included. Other dates available on request.
Once in Lauksletta, driving times are short. Some tours require no driving at all. Kågen and the town of Skjervøy are nearby and accessible by ferry.
Group Size and Skill Level
The trip is designed for small groups (1–5 participants). Contact me if your group is larger. The terrain suits many skill levels, but secure off-piste skiing is essential. Basic kick-turn ability is recommended, but I will coach you if needed. Tours typically include 900–1500 m of ascent, but this can vary.
Prices
From NOK 20,500 (ca. EUR 1750) per person for a group of 4–5.
Private guiding:
- 2 persons: NOK 24,000 (ca. EUR 2070)
- 1 person: NOK 32,500 (ca. EUR 2740)
What’s Included
- 6 days ski guiding with an ACMG ski guide who has pioneered this island
- 6 nights full-board accommodation at Lauksletta Overnatting (incl. packed lunch)
- All transport from Tromsø and on Arnøya and Kågen
Not Included
- Travel to/from Tromsø
- Transfer to/from Tromsø boat terminal
- Meals in Tromsø
- Alcoholic drinks (buy at duty free)
- Ski touring equipment (ask if you need help)
- Insurance (cancellation, rescue, medical)
Arnøya / Kågen Dates 2026
- 29 March – 4 April
- 12 – 18 April
- 19 – 25 April
- 26 April – 2 May
Note: Some dates overlap with Georgia trips and may book out fast.
Short Program / Custom Dates
You can also book a 4-day trip (4 ski days, 3 nights incl. meals/accommodation). This is ideal during the midnight sun—more info.
Price: NOK 12,900 for 3 people.