Helgeland has several large glaciers. Those most accessible to visitors are Svartisen and Okstindbreen.
Svartisen: Engabreen and Austerdalsisen
The glacier is divided into two parts and can be accessed from Rana in the east and Meløy in the west. It is Norway’s second-largest and lowest-lying glacier, making it easily accessible for glacier hikes and outdoor experiences. The hike to Austerdalsisen follows a 3-kilometre trail that most people manage without difficulty, though good footwear is recommended. Austerdalsisen’s fractured ice blocks and icy meltwater rivers make the trip a powerful experience.
From the west, the easiest way to visit is Engabreen in Meløy, reached by a shuttle boat across Holandsfjorden. The boat trip from Holandsvika takes about 10–12 minutes. From the quay, a good gravel road leads for about 3 kilometres before the path climbs over the rocky slopes towards the glacier. In wet weather, the rocks can be slippery, so sturdy footwear is advised.
Okstindbreen glacier and Rabothytta cabin
The mountain massif Okstindan is sometimes referred to as “the roof of Northern Norway”. One of the peaks, Oksskolten (1916 m) is the highest in Northern Norway. In this mountain range, perched at a thousand metres altitude on the edge of Okstindbreen glacier, you will find Rabothytta, find the most striking cabin owned by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). Locals who are familiar with the glacier, and have the right equipment, go skiing here even in the summer. However, if you are a visitor, for your own safety we strongly suggest you hire a guide or join a guided glacier trek, or enjoy the view of the glacier from a respectful distance at Rabothytta cabin.
Please be mindful and keep a safe distance while admiring the glacier.
The large blocks of ice at the glacier’s edge are especially unstable, and can suddenly come loose and shift without warning.
Hiking on the glaciers requires the right equipment and experience. Hire a guide if you are in doubt about the equipment and knowledge required.
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Boat to Austerdalsisen glacier – Svartisen in Rana
Looking for a unique nature experience? Austerdalsisen, Svartisen is located just north of Mo i Rana. Svartisdal takes you by boat across Svartisvatnet so you can witness this spectacular glacier.
Kayaking trips in the Meløy and Rødøy area
Meløy Adventure offers guided kayaking trips on the Glomfjord, to the Svartisen glacier, and on the waters near Rødøyløva (443 m), as well as longer excursions around the island of Mesøy. The company also rents out kayaks, and its experienced instructors offer a variety of kayaking courses.
Glacier hike on Svartisen with Explore Svartisen
Join an adventurous glacier hike on the Engabreen glacier tongue in Svartisen, Meløy.
Guided hikes and courses on Okstinbreen
Experience the beautiful Okstindbreen and Oksskolten with MAD Mountain Guides and join exciting glacier tours and courses in a magnificent glacier landscape. At 1,916 meters above sea level, Oksskolten is Northern Norway’s highest mountain and an impressive sight in a wild and beautiful mountain massif.
A glacier trek on Svartisen
Join us for an exotic adventure: a guided glacier trek on Engabreen. The experienced guides from Meløy Adventure will ensure that this is a safe and unforgettable adventure.
