Arctic Ski Touring – Rødtind 470m

Delighted to have made an ascent and ski descent of our local peak on our first full day in northern Norway.

The day started with low clouds and a bit of rain. Not ideal for ski mountaineering, but perfect for enjoying a slow, restorative start and a coffee in bed! We knew there was no need to rush, so took our time getting organised, then headed out after lunch as the rain eased off.

We drove a few minutes along the waters edge, to a cross-country ski centre, and set off from there. I wasn’t sure before we arrived, if we’d have to carry our skis far uphill, to reach the snow. As it turns out we just had to lift them from the car and strap them straight onto our feet! The snow level extends right down to the beaches here!

The peak is a straightforward tour with no real avalanche or navigation issues, so was the perfect peak to ‘warm up’ on and remember all the little techniques and kit that ski touring requires. Although we’ve done plenty of it, it’s been a few years since we went up on any serious objectives.

Getting the kit right is key, but so is getting in tune with the environment. It felt good to be noticing how the snow changes, discussing the best route, and watching how and where the wind was moving the snow. There’s a lot to take in, so it was good to be on a short tour, where there was time to absorb, chat and notice. (As well as remembering how to do my ski boots up and what layers to wear etc!).

As we gained height, the temperature dropped, the rain stopped and the sun began to make an appearance. It was still quite windy though, which kept us wrapped up.

For quite a while, as is sometimes the way in the mountains, the summit seemed to not be getting any closer. Then finally, as we swapped for me to take a turn up front, breaking trail, it all seemed achievable.

A final steep bit was negotiated and then we were at the top. Ready for a drink and even rewarded with a view!

We managed the tricky task of removing the skins from our skis while the wind whipped around us and we were pleased with our efficiency. Then it was helmets and goggles on in preparation for the good bit – skiing back down!

Who wants to walk back downhill, when you could just slide down!

Thankfully, we could both still remember how to ski and the fresh snow felt good for putting turns in.

As we reached the tree line, the sun, low in the sky by now, burst through the clouds giving some lovely light – especially on those wearing bright colours!

Down we went. Savouring the turns and whooping with delight at our own private ski field, with views out to sea.

We passed a couple of people heading up, but otherwise, the mountain was ours. A super start to the trip!

It was only while on the way down, we realised that we could see our house! This is the peak, taken from our driveway – we skied the gentle right hand skyline from the summit.