What’s the minimum age for this hike?

Children aged 8 and older are permitted, but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is prior glacier hiking experience necessary?

While no technical experience is required, a reasonable level of fitness and balance is essential.

What should I bring for the hike?

Warm, wind- and waterproof clothing, sturdy boots, gloves, sunglasses, and a packed lunch are recommended.

Are glacier hike tours canceled due to weather?

Tours run rain or shine, but may be canceled for severe or dangerous weather and unsafe ice conditions.

Is equipment provided?

Glacier gear including crampons and helmets are supplied, as well as transportation via boat.

Where do I meet for the hike?

The meeting point is the Nigardsbreen car park in Jostedal, Vestland, Norway.

Blue Ice Glacier Hike with Jostedalen Breførarlag

Jostedalen Breførarlag invites adventurers to embark on the Private X-tra Short Blue Ice Hike at the Nigardsbreen Glacier, located in Vestland, Norway. This remarkable glacier, a prominent arm of the immense Jostedalsbreen Glacier — the largest in mainland Europe — offers an extraordinary setting where ancient ice has been carved and compressed into striking deep blue formations. Over the roughly 3.5-hour journey, walkers experience the raw grandeur of one of Norway’s most stunning glacial landscapes.

Starting from Nigardsbreen car park, this hike includes a short boat transfer across the glacier-fed lake, delivering participants to the glacier’s edge. The hike itself, while shorter than other glacier tours offered by Jostedalen Breførarlag, maintains a steep and technically challenging path that demands good balance and medium fitness. Participants aged 8 and above can join, making this a memorable family-friendly adventure for outdoor enthusiasts eager to witness glacial ice up close.

The frozen blue ice—dense ice that absorbs all colors of light except blue—creates a surreal scene that feels both alien and profoundly natural. The surrounding terrain features rugged moraine deposits and the sharp contrast of the green valley floor with the brilliant glacier front. The Nigardsbreen area is not just a geological marvel but also a cultural landmark, with the Jostedalen Breførarlag operating since 1892, guiding visitors through these demanding landscapes with expert local knowledge.

Jostedalen Breførarlag’s personalized approach, including providing glacier gear and expert guides, ensures safety and enriches the experience. Guests are encouraged to wear warm, wind- and waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear, as weather can shift quickly in this alpine zone. This tour blends adventure, education, and awe-inspiring natural beauty, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking an immersive encounter with Norway’s frozen wilderness.

About Jostedalen Breførarlag

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.