Discover the thrill of glacier trekking on Nigardsbreen with your family. This guided Blue Ice Hike offers a safe, engaging way for kids to experience Norway’s icy frontier firsthand—perfect for ages 8 and up. Keep reading to find out what makes this adventure so special.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in reasonable physical shape for walking on uneven, icy terrain.
Wildlife
History
The Nigardsbreen glacier has been retreating since the Little Ice Age, offering a tangible glimpse into climate change’s impacts.
Conservation
Jostedalen Breførarlag emphasizes responsible tourism by adhering to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring this pristine environment remains untouched.
Jostedalen Breførarlag
Discover the thrill of glacier trekking on Nigardsbreen with your family. This guided Blue Ice Hike offers a safe, engaging way for kids to experience Norway’s icy frontier firsthand—perfect for ages 8 and up. Keep reading to find out what makes this adventure so special.
Jostedalen Breførarlag is a mountain guiding company based in Jostedal, Vestland, specializing in guided glacier hikes, ice climbing and alpine summit routes. The operator leads trips on Nigardsbreen Glacier and across the Jostedalsbreen area, offering experiences for families, experienced mountaineers and private groups.
Trips include short and long glacier hikes, family-focused blue ice hikes for children aged eight and up, advanced technical routes with top-rope ice climbing, and multi-peak mountain traverses such as Austanbotntind and Uranostind. Several summit expeditions include glacier travel and require prior hiking experience and good physical fitness. Guided options list crampons, ice axes and ropes as part of the technical equipment used during ascents and glacier navigation.
Safety and local expertise are emphasized: certified and professional guides lead climbs and glacier hikes, provide equipment instruction, and teach rope and belay techniques where required. Group sizes are kept small on deluxe and private departures, with some tours crossing the lake by boat to reach Nigardsbreen. Private bookings are available for families and groups who prefer tailored itineraries.
Tours highlight Nigardsbreen Glacier’s deep blue ice, ice tunnels, crevasses and ice towers, and include instruction in glacier travel techniques. The kids' family-oriented hikes accept children from eight years old, with all necessary safety equipment provided by guides.
Jostedalen Breførarlag operates a range of durations from short 4.5-hour family hikes to full-day 10–12 hour summit traverses. Services combine practical glacier skills, interpretive guidance about local landscapes and a focus on safety to create memorable outdoor experiences in Vestland’s alpine environment.
Tours Offered
18
Guided glacier and alpine trips
Location
Jostedal, Vestland
Base for Nigardsbreen Glacier trips
Group Size
Small groups
Deluxe groups as small as six
Trip Lengths
4.5–12 hrs
Short family to full-day traverses
Secure a spot on blue ice hikes, technical climbs, or private tours led by certified guides in Jostedal, Vestland.
Wear layered clothing
Layer up to stay warm and adjust to changing conditions on the glacier.
Book in advance
Glacier hikes are popular; secure your spot ahead of time, especially in peak season.
Stay hydrated and energized
Bring water and snacks to keep energy levels high during the hike.
Follow your guide’s instructions
Ensure safety by listening carefully, especially around crevasses and ice formations.
Insulated waterproof jacket
Keeps you warm and dry in cold, wet conditions on the glacier.
winter
Sturdy hiking boots with traction
Provides grip and ankle support on icy and uneven surfaces.
Warm gloves and hat
Essential for keeping extremities warm in colder temperatures.
winter
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Protect your eyes from glare and UV rays reflecting off the ice.
summer