Ski touring: Tortenviktinden 1027 m
Kristin Johansen
According to the magazine Fri Flyt in 2024, Tortenviktinden is considered one of Norway’s best backcountry skiing tours, thanks to its spectacular views of the Helgeland coastline and numerous downhill options.
Key info
Difficulty level: Challenging, long
One-way distance: 5,2 km
Elevation gain one way: 1025 m
Estimated time one way: 3-4 hours
Starting point: View the starting point on Google Maps
UT.no / Norgeskart
Please note that the route shown on the map is approximate, and you should make your own route choices based on your skills, the terrain, and the snow conditions. Always exercise caution and use your judgment when navigating the terrain.
This backcountry skiing tour is located along the Helgeland coastline, west of Mo i Rana, offering a stunning combination of breathtaking views and excellent skiing!
There are two routes you can take to the summit, but for most of the winter, only the main route is accessible, as the parking lot for the alternative route is typically not cleared until Easter.
Both routes offer enjoyable trips, but the alternative route is a bit more direct. It involves a steeper ascent and less traversing on the descent.
From the summit, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of landmarks such as Hestmannen, Lovund, Træna, De Syv Søstre, and many more mountains and islands along the Helgeland coastline. The mountainside is mostly free of trees, making it easy to find a good line with untouched snow on the way down.
Alternative route
Key info- alternative route
Difficulty level: Challenging, long
One-way distance: 4,3 km
Elevation gain one way: 1005 m
Estimated time one way: 3-4 hours
Starting point: View the starting point on Google Maps
UT.no / Norgeskart
Please note that the route shown on the map is approximate, and you should make your own route choices based on your skills, the terrain, and the snow conditions. Always exercise caution and use your judgment when navigating the terrain.
Always check the weather forecast and avalanche forecast before embarking on a summit 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
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.
