Resources for Planning a Hike on Svalbard

Introduction

The landscape on Svalbard is as stunning as it is hostile. Planning a hike here is different from planning a hike on the mainland. Knowledge is your most important tool. The Arctic is constantly changing, with unpredictable weather, unstable terrain, and the presence of polar bears. It’s therefore essential to have accurate, up-to-date information about the area and the weather. Below are some key online resources to help you plan.

Weather and Terrain

• YR Weather: YR provides up-to-date forecasts, including wind, precipitation, and temperature.
• TOPO Svalbard: This topographical map system offers detailed elevation data and geographic features, helping you understand the landscape.
• Windy: Windy provides a comprehensive view of wind patterns, temperature, precipitation, and other weather conditions.
• CryoMet: This site offers insights into the state of ice and snow in Svalbard. It provides data on snow coverage, sea ice extent, and glacier conditions.
• Varsom: Varsom provides detailed avalanche warnings in Norway.
• RegObs: A community-driven platform where users can report natural phenomena like avalanches, landslides, and snow conditions. It’s a great way to get real-time updates from other hikers or outdoor enthusiasts.
• Temakart NVE: This mapping service provides detailed environmental data, including flood risks, landslide zones, and water conditions.
• Kartverket: If your hike involves coastal areas, this site offers critical information on tides.
• Copernicus Browser: This satellite data tool from Copernicus allows you to access real-time Earth observation imagery, which can be useful for checking large-scale environmental conditions like snow cover and weather fronts.

Be aware that cellphone coverage is limited in Spitsbergen (Telia 2024). Make sure to download maps beforehand. And bring a physical map as well.

Other sources

These internet sources provide good tools to help you plan your hike in Svalbard. However, they are just a part of the planning process. The best sources of information are real-life, recent experiences. Consult local guides, experts at UNIS, or the Svalbard Tourist Office to get the most up-to-date information for your trip. The Arctic is a place where conditions change quickly, so there’s no substitute for local knowledge.