Ski touring: Snøfjellet, Innerstøtten 744 m

Kristin Johansen

It is no coincidence that Snøfjellet has precisely that name. This peak is a paradise for ski touring enthusiasts and one of the most snow-covered summit trips in Rana. It is easily accessible and close to the city.

Trail information

Difficulty level: Middle

One-way distance: 5,8 km

Elevation gain one way: 744 m

Estimated time one way: 2 hours

Starting point: View the starting point on Google Maps

On the ascent, you can enjoy the fantastic view of Langvatnet in the background, and eventually, you will also see both Ranfjorden and Mo i Rana. Here, you can feel the sun on your back as you hike uphill.

From Mo i Rana, take Nesnaveien, but turn off at Altermarka. Follow Altermarkveien for a little over 3 km until you reach a sign that says “Snefjellåveien.” From the parking lot at Kvernbekkneset, walk a few more meters. From the road, you can usually see ski tracks crossing the hill.

Always check the weather forecast and avalanche forecast before embarking on a summit trip.

Tips for a safe and rewarding ski trip

Plan your trip well

Route choices should be made with safety in mind, considering the current conditions and your group’s skills.
Always check both the weather and avalanche forecasts on the day of your trip.
Utilize maps that detail avalanche zones and release areas, such as those available on UT.no or Fatmap.
If the weather turns or conditions worsen unexpectedly, have an alternative hike or activity ready as plan B.
Remember, enlisting a local professional guide will streamline this process, allowing your group to focus more on the experience and less on the logistics.

Carry the necessary gear

Equipping yourself with appropriate clothing and gear is essential. Be prepared for weather changes and bring extra clothes in case the weather worsens or in case of injuries. In the wild terrains of Helgeland, it might take time for help to arrive, making the risk of hypothermia a real concern.
Even if you’re not venturing into avalanche-prone terrains, carrying an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel is always a wise precaution.

A mountain guide enriches the ski trip

Engaging a local, professional guide can greatly enrich your experience. Well-acquainted with the local terrains and conditions, guides expertly plan routes that cater to your group’s composition and adapt to the day’s weather and conditions. Their adept skills in assessing conditions on the go ensure you traverse safe and enjoyable paths, both ascending and descending.
This way you have less planning and less to concider, and more time to just enjoy your journey.

Useful Links:

Important avalanche safety information for ski touring in Norway from Varsom.no
Weather Forecast on YR.no
Avalanche Warning for Southern Helgeland on Varsom.no
Avalanche Warning for Northern Helgeland (Svartisen) on Varsom.no
The «Help 113»-app from Norwegian Air Ambulance
Mountain Safety Rules on DNT.no
Packing list for skiing in the mountains from DNT.no

Please contribute to sustainable tourism

Thank you for respecting the local communities, and for helping us preserve the natural beauty of Helgeland!

Please:

Strive to leave no trace of your visit. Bring back all your rubbish, including used toilet paper, and discard it in the nearest rubbish bin.
Plan your toilet visits and use the opportunity when you pass a toilet. In the wilderness, make sure you are not a nuisance to others.
Respect the local wildlife. Keep a good distance from wildlife, livestock and birds. Keep your dog leashed.
Respect private property. Keep a respectful distance from houses and cabins.
Show good boating sense. Keep a good distance from shore and drive at a low speed, especially when you are close to anyone or anything on the water, including birds or animals. Avoid loud and disturbing engine noise. Be aware that some islands and nature reserves are important nesting sites, and that going ashore is prohibited during the nesting season.
Follow the Norwegian Mountain Code (Fjellvettreglene). Plan your excursion according to the weather forecast, your skills and experience.
Join a guided excursion or consider hiring an experienced guide, especially when you don’t have sufficient experience or knowledge to guarantee a safe trip.