Chasing the Aurora: A Bonfire, a Shelter and the Wild Skies South of Tromsø
A short hike, a crackling fire and the northern lights—an accessible Arctic night just outside Tromsø.
The van eases away from Tromsø's sodium-lit streets and the city sighs behind you. In the windows, apartment lights blur into the northern dark; ahead, the road cuts through coastal pines and ribbon fjords that the last light of day has already let go. Forty minutes later you park where the tarmac breathes its last, strap on boots and step into a landscape that feels intentionally quieter—snow holding conversation, breath visible, the world pared down to black, white and possibility.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for the long night
Temperatures can drop quickly; wear a moisture-wicking base, insulated mid-layer and a windproof shell to stay comfortable around the fire and on the hike.
Bring a tripod
A stable tripod is essential for aurora photography—most guides can help set exposure but a steady base makes the difference.
Use ankle-supporting boots
Snow-packed trails can be uneven; waterproof boots with good ankle support and traction will keep you steady on the 30-minute hike.
Preserve night vision
Avoid bright phone screens before viewing the aurora; dim your lights and let your eyes adjust for better color and detail.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Polaria’s Arctic aquarium and short cinema—great pre- or post-tour stop in Tromsø
- •Walk the Tromsø Bridge at dusk for a different angle on the city before your pickup
Wildlife
Arctic hare, White-tailed eagle
Conservation Note
This region is sensitive to disturbance—tours use established paths and shelters to minimize impact; guests are asked to pack out waste and respect wildlife distances.
Tromsø became a center for Arctic exploration and fishing in the 19th century; its position above the Arctic Circle made it a logistical hub for polar expeditions.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Longer daylight for activities, Milder temperatures, Late-season aurora opportunities
Challenges: Snowmelt creates slushy trails, Variable weather
Early spring still offers aurora chances while temperatures slowly moderate—expect variable snow conditions and occasional clear nights.
summer
Best for: Midnight sun experiences, Hiking and boating, Milder conditions for daytime exploration
Challenges: No aurora due to continuous daylight, Different tour offerings
Summer doesn’t host aurora viewing; tours like this are winter-focused, though Tromsø offers other summer adventures.
fall
Best for: Early aurora season, Crisp nights and color transitions, Less crowded months
Challenges: Unpredictable storms, Early snow on trails
Autumn brings the first reliable nights for aurora watching; dress for quick temperature swings and potential coastal storms.
winter
Best for: Peak aurora season, Snow-covered landscapes, True Arctic nights
Challenges: Very cold temperatures, Short daylight hours, Occasional road closures
Winter is prime aurora time—long nights, snowy scenery and a high chance for dramatic skies, but prepare for cold and occasional travel delays.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Insulated winter parkaEssential
Keeps core temperature stable during long periods of standing and outdoor dinner around the fire.
Tripod and wide-angle lensEssential
Needed for sharp aurora photos and long exposures under low light.
Waterproof hiking boots with tractionEssential
Protects feet from snow and offers secure footing on the 30-minute coastal hike.
Insulated gloves and warm hatEssential
Prevent heat loss from extremities during long night-time exposures and the walk to/from the shelter.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to the shelter?
The hike is approximately 30 minutes each way on snow-packed coastal trails with minimal elevation gain.
Is this suitable for children?
Families with older children accustomed to cold weather and short hikes should be fine; check with the operator for age restrictions on private tours.
Will I definitely see the northern lights?
No tour can guarantee the aurora—clear skies and solar activity are required—however the tour maximizes chances by selecting dark, remote locations.
What kind of food is provided?
Food is cooked over the campfire and typically includes warm drinks, simple hot meals and the chance to make traditional Norwegian campfire bread.
Are tripods and camera gear provided?
Photographers typically bring their own gear; the tour provides instruction and assistance but not usually loaner tripods or lenses—confirm with the operator if you need rentals.
Is transportation from Tromsø included?
Yes—pickup from Tromsø is included and the drive to the trailhead is about 40 minutes one way.
What to Pack
Warm layers, tripod, insulated water bottle, headlamp (red light) — layers for warmth, tripod for photos, bottle to stay hydrated and red headlamp to preserve night vision
Did You Know
Tromsø sits well above the Arctic Circle (around 69.65° N) and is one of the best-accessed cities for aurora viewing, often called the 'Gateway to the Arctic.'
Quick Travel Tips
Book aurora tours mid-week for smaller groups; charge camera batteries in your inner pocket to keep them warm; download offline maps—cell service can be spotty; layer socks to avoid blisters in snow boots
Local Flavor
After the tour, head back to Tromsø for seafood at Fiskekompaniet or a cozy meal at Emma's Drømmekjøkken; for local beer, stop by Mack Brewery and finish with a visit to the iconic Arctic Cathedral to ground the night in town.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Tromsø Airport (TOS) | Drive from Tromsø to trailhead: ~40 minutes | Cell service: intermittent once off the main road | Permits: none typically required—follow Leave No Trace and local guidance
Sustainability Note
Tours favor established shelters and fire rings to limit landscape impact; guests should avoid trampling vegetation, pack out all rubbish, and keep safe distances from wildlife to prevent disturbance.