The best outdoor activities in Narvik

Narvik: Mountains, Fjords, and Arctic Adventure at the Edge of Norway

The cable car glides upward, leaving the harbour far below as snowy peaks rise on all sides. At the top, the view stretches across the deep Ofotfjord, and in winter, the northern lights might be waiting above. Welcome to Narvik, where the mountains drop straight into the sea and outdoor adventure meets Arctic history.

Visit Narvik: A Northern Hub with a Wild Heart

Located above the Arctic Circle in northern Norway, Narvik is more than just a transport town, it’s a gateway to dramatic mountain terrain, winter sports, and some of the most accessible alpine adventures in the region. Surrounded by fjords and steep granite walls, it’s one of the few places in Norway where you can ski with a sea view.

Narvik also has a unique cultural and historical backdrop. As an important port for Swedish iron ore and the site of key World War II battles, it blends rugged landscapes with a strong sense of place. But for outdoor lovers, it’s the nearby peaks, glaciers, and northern skies that truly steal the show.

Things to Do in Narvik: Top Outdoor Experiences

Skiing with a View

Narvikfjellet is the town’s crown jewel, a ski resort with Arctic slopes overlooking the fjord. It's one of the few places in Scandinavia where you can ski in late-season sunshine or even under the northern lights. The vertical drop is among Norway’s highest, and off-piste skiing here is excellent for experienced riders.

In spring, ski touring becomes popular, with long daylight hours and stable snow. Routes lead into the nearby Narvik, Skjomen, and Rombak mountains, perfect for adventurous backcountry days.

Northern Lights and Winter Magic

From October to March, Narvik offers superb conditions for seeing the aurora borealis. The clear inland skies and relatively low light pollution make it a reliable spot, whether you're watching from the ski gondola, snowshoeing through the hills, or relaxing by a fire in a glass-roofed cabin.

Hiking and Mountaineering

In summer, Narvik is a hiker’s dream, with trails ranging from gentle walks near the fjord to full-day climbs in the surrounding ranges. The Rombakstøtta hike is a local favourite, leading to panoramic views over Narvik and the surrounding fjords.

More advanced mountaineers head to the Skjomen Valley, where granite peaks and alpine terrain offer climbing, scrambling, and glacier exploration. It’s one of northern Norway’s hidden gems for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Fjord Kayaking and Fishing

Paddle through the still waters of the Ofotfjord, where steep cliffs, quiet coves, and deep marine life create an unforgettable kayaking experience. You might see porpoises, sea eagles, or even a passing whale.

Fishing is also popular, both in the fjord and the rivers inland. Local guides can take you to prime Arctic char and trout spots, or out to sea to try your luck with cod and halibut.

The Narvik War Trail and Railway Walk

If you’re looking to combine history with outdoor activity, try walking part of the Rallarveien, the old construction trail along the Ofotbanen railway. It leads through mountain scenery used during the WWII Battle of Narvik, with old bunkers and viewpoints along the way.

The Narvik War Museum provides context for the area’s dramatic past, and nearby you can also visit the Swedish border and see the unique terrain where the Allies clashed with German forces in 1940.

Local Tips for Outdoor Exploration

Dress for Arctic conditions, especially in winter. Even though Narvik is relatively mild for its latitude, wind and snow can arrive quickly in the mountains. Layers, waterproofs, and good boots are essential.

Check avalanche forecasts if ski touring or hiking in steep terrain. Local guides and ski patrol can offer up-to-date safety info.

Use the gondola wisely, it operates in all seasons and is a great shortcut for both skiers and summer hikers. The summit café is also one of the best spots in town to watch the aurora or midnight sun.

Be wildlife-aware. While rare, moose and lynx live in the surrounding forests, and sea eagles are commonly seen near the fjord.

Best Time to Visit Narvik

• Winter (December to April): The prime season for skiing, snowshoeing, and aurora hunting. Snow is usually reliable, and the resort is open from late November through early May.
• Spring (April to early June): A favourite time for ski touring, with long daylight and stable snow. The contrast of white peaks and warming sun is unforgettable.
• Summer (June to August): Ideal for hiking, kayaking, and climbing. The midnight sun lasts from late May to mid-July, with mild temperatures and blooming alpine meadows.
• Autumn (September to October): Quieter and cooler, with golden light, early aurora displays, and excellent hiking conditions. Snow usually returns to the high peaks by October.

Each season offers its own mood, snowy silence in winter, long golden hikes in summer, and glowing skies in between.

How to Get to Narvik

Narvik is one of the most accessible Arctic destinations in Norway:

• By air: The nearest airport is Harstad/Narvik Airport (EVE), located about 1.5 hours away by road. Daily flights connect to Oslo and other major cities.
• By train: Narvik is the terminus of the Ofotbanen Railway, Norway’s only Arctic rail line, connecting from Sweden via Kiruna. It’s a spectacular journey, especially in winter.
• By car: The E6 highway runs through Narvik, linking it to Tromsø in the north (4 hours) and the Lofoten Islands in the west (5–6 hours via ferry or road).
• By bus: Regular bus services connect Narvik to Tromsø, Bodø, and nearby towns.

Once in town, local buses and the Narvikfjellet gondola make it easy to get around and access the main outdoor areas.

Extend Your Journey

Narvik is perfectly placed for exploring northern Norway. Combine your visit with the Lofoten Islands, just a ferry ride away, or head inland to Abisko National Park in Sweden for cross-border hiking and skiing. The Lyngen Alps and Senja are also within reach for those wanting to deepen their Arctic adventure.

In Narvik, nature and history meet under Arctic skies, whether you're carving down a fjord-side slope or standing still beneath the northern lights, you'll feel the pulse of the north in every breath.