People standing outside in the snow watching a demonstration of a burner
A group of tent with lights in a dark winter night
People in snow building a snow wall for their tents

Ski Expedition course in Jotunheimen

Learn all you need to know about ski expeditions

Ski Expedition course in Jotunheimen

Learn all you need to know about ski expeditions

From USD 901

Our expedition course in Jotunheimen is specially designed for those of you who want to learn more about ski expeditions. During a long weekend in Jotunheimen, we guarantee you an informative and educational course where we go from theory to practice so that you get a solid introduction to the good routines, tips and tricks that can make ski expeditions both safer, more fun and more comfortable.

Highlights

  • One night at Bygdin Mountain Lodge
  • Trip planning: Orientation, safe route choices, etc
  • Correct clothing and equipment on the trip
  • Tent and camp routines
  • Learning to use a petrol burner for cooking
  • Packing of pulk
  • Risk factors such as frostbite, hypothermia, tent fire, etc

The winter in the mountains can be insanely beautiful - but it can also be cold and challenging. During this long weekend, we will take you through everything a ski expedition entails. 

We start with the necessary theory at Bygdin before packing up the pulk, going through some practical exercises outside the hotel, then heading out into nature. Here, the days will be spent putting theory into practice. We practice orientation, safe route choices, we eat lunch along the day's stages, discuss what we have learnt, before we set up camp in the afternoon where we go through tent and camp routines, safe use of petrol burners, and more. We adjust the days according to weather and wind conditions to get the most out of the weekend.

Check out the blog post our intern Jørgen wrote after the expedition course in February 2025.

4

4-12

NO/EN

2/6

1/6

2/6

Dates and booking

Thu 18. February - Sun 21. February 2027

USD 901

Flight not included

Available

Book

Thu 04. March - Sun 07. March 2027

USD 901

Flight not included

Available

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Can't find a date? We'll notify you when new trips open!

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Want this trip just for your group? Or got something different in mind? We've got you.

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Opening hours Phone
Mon-Fri : 08-20
Sat-Sun : 14-17
Opening hours Chat
Mon-Fri : 07-23
Sat : 10-18
Sun : 13-21
CET

Day by day

A traditional red mountain lodge with white window frames sitting on a snow-covered landscape beside a partially frozen lake under a clear sky.
Three men gathered around a coffee table inside a wooden mountain lodge cabin, studying a large paper map together.
A group of people standing in a large wooden room filled with expedition gear, sleeping bags, and pulks while listening to an instructor.

Day 1:Arrival at Bygdin Mountain Lodge

Arrival at Bygdin Mountain Lodge is at 18.00 (6.00 PM). Before we are served a 2-course dinner in the evening, we have a quick introduction, talk a little about the weekend and what expectations each one of you has for the course, and If we have enough time, we will start on some theory today. NOTE! The road into Bygdin closes at 20.00 (8.00 PM), so it is important to be here well ahead of this.

Arrival at Bygdin Mountain Lodge is at 18.00 (6.00 PM). Before we are served a 2-course dinner in the evening, we have a quick introduction, talk a little about the weekend and what expectations each one of you has for the course, and If we have enough time, we will start on some theory today. NOTE! The road into Bygdin closes at 20.00 (8.00 PM), so it is important to be here well ahead of this.

Bygdin Høyfjellshotell

-,-,D

A group of people dressed in winter gear standing in a circle in the snow, watching a person demonstrate how to use a camping stove on a sunny day.
A group of people setting up a red expedition tunnel tent in the snow outside traditional red wooden buildings on a sunny winter day.

Day 2:From theory to practice

After breakfast, we start with the necessary theory, going through some exercises, before we start packing the pulks. Once this is done, we head out to learn more about how the petrol burner works, and how to set up the tents in the best possible way. Then we strap on our skis (and pulks), and head out into nature. Weather and wind conditions determine the choice of route. After a short lap this afternoon, we are now left to ourselves and this is where the theory will be put into practice. We set up tents, go through camp routines, boil water, make dinner, and jump into our sleeping bags for the night, before a new day awaits tomorrow.

After breakfast, we start with the necessary theory, going through some exercises, before we start packing the pulks. Once this is done, we head out to learn more about how the petrol burner works, and how to set up the tents in the best possible way. Then we strap on our skis (and pulks), and head out into nature. Weather and wind conditions determine the choice of route. After a short lap this afternoon, we are now left to ourselves and this is where the theory will be put into practice. We set up tents, go through camp routines, boil water, make dinner, and jump into our sleeping bags for the night, before a new day awaits tomorrow.

Tent

B,L,D

6-8 hours

People building a protective snow wall with shovels around red expedition tents in a snowy landscape.

Day 3:Expedition course

We fire up the primus and eat breakfast, then pack down the tents and continue the trip after hopefully a comfortable night. Along the way, we get tested in navigation, and take breaks where we get tips and training. In the afternoon we find a suitable place where we set up camp. Here we will go through much of the same stuff as yesterday so that we get the hang of our routines. Because that's what ski expeditions are all about! The good routines.

We fire up the primus and eat breakfast, then pack down the tents and continue the trip after hopefully a comfortable night. Along the way, we get tested in navigation, and take breaks where we get tips and training. In the afternoon we find a suitable place where we set up camp. Here we will go through much of the same stuff as yesterday so that we get the hang of our routines. Because that's what ski expeditions are all about! The good routines.

Tent

B,L,D

6-8 hours

A group of skiers pulling heavy pulks across a vast, snow-covered mountain landscape under a bright blue sky.

Day 4:Back to Bygdin

We pack up the tents for the last time and head back towards Bygdin. We use the day to practice navigation and choice of route. When we arrive at Bygdin Mountain Lodge we eat lunch, then start unpacking before a final chat about the trip awaits. The course ends in the afternoon. In order to get the most out of what you have just learned, we recommend that you carry out such a trip on your own, in a safe environment that you are comfortable with, or by signing up for one of our ski expeditions.

We pack up the tents for the last time and head back towards Bygdin. We use the day to practice navigation and choice of route. When we arrive at Bygdin Mountain Lodge we eat lunch, then start unpacking before a final chat about the trip awaits. The course ends in the afternoon. In order to get the most out of what you have just learned, we recommend that you carry out such a trip on your own, in a safe environment that you are comfortable with, or by signing up for one of our ski expeditions.

B,L,-

5-7 hours

Arrival at Bygdin Mountain Lodge is at 18.00 (6.00 PM). Before we are served a 2-course dinner in the evening, we have a quick introduction, talk a little about the weekend and what expectations each one of you has for the course, and If we have enough time, we will start on some theory today. NOTE! The road into Bygdin closes at 20.00 (8.00 PM), so it is important to be here well ahead of this.

Bygdin Høyfjellshotell

-,-,D

After breakfast, we start with the necessary theory, going through some exercises, before we start packing the pulks. Once this is done, we head out to learn more about how the petrol burner works, and how to set up the tents in the best possible way. Then we strap on our skis (and pulks), and head out into nature. Weather and wind conditions determine the choice of route. After a short lap this afternoon, we are now left to ourselves and this is where the theory will be put into practice. We set up tents, go through camp routines, boil water, make dinner, and jump into our sleeping bags for the night, before a new day awaits tomorrow.

Tent

B,L,D

6-8 hours

We fire up the primus and eat breakfast, then pack down the tents and continue the trip after hopefully a comfortable night. Along the way, we get tested in navigation, and take breaks where we get tips and training. In the afternoon we find a suitable place where we set up camp. Here we will go through much of the same stuff as yesterday so that we get the hang of our routines. Because that's what ski expeditions are all about! The good routines.

Tent

B,L,D

6-8 hours

We pack up the tents for the last time and head back towards Bygdin. We use the day to practice navigation and choice of route. When we arrive at Bygdin Mountain Lodge we eat lunch, then start unpacking before a final chat about the trip awaits. The course ends in the afternoon. In order to get the most out of what you have just learned, we recommend that you carry out such a trip on your own, in a safe environment that you are comfortable with, or by signing up for one of our ski expeditions.

B,L,-

5-7 hours

What's included in the price

Included

Norwegian-speaking guide on programs with Norwegian language.

One night at Bygdin Fjellhotell and two nights in a tent.

Meals as specified in the program. Included expedition meals while we’re out on the ski trip, mainly freeze-dried food. Oatmeal for breakfast.

Such as basic first aid equipment, satellite phone, navigation equipment, camp stove/gasoline burner, and tents from Hilleberg.

Paris Expedition transport sled, sled bag, harness, and pull rope, for each participant.

Not included

Transportation to and from the meeting point at Bygdin.

Beyond sled, sled bag, rope pull and harness.

Terms and Conditions 

We reserve the right to change prices. The day by day program is indicative and changes may occur. We also refer to our general travel conditions.

Travel Insurance

On all our trips, we advise you to have full travel and accident insurance, which must also cover potential medical repatriation. Read more about travel insurance.

Highlights

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Safety & Grading

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For departures with Norrøna Adventure guides:

  • 24-hour emergency response
  • Guides trained in first aid in the field
  • Basic first aid equipment available
  • Cooperation with Turlegen.no for medical advice

On our trips, it is important to understand that we often will be traveling far off the beaten track. We will, of course, do everything we can to assist if anything should happen, but a potential rescue operation can be demanding. It is therefore extremely important that all participants arrive well-prepared and ready to handle unforeseen situations

Physical level

2/6 Physical

We need to exert some effort to reach our destination. With a good level of fitness and determination, these journeys are manageable for the majority of participants. Being active in daily life is a beneficial preparation.

Comfort level

1/6 Comfort

We overnight in tents. On these trips, the participants take part in camp routines such as setting up camp and cooking meals.

Risk level

2/6 Risk

Activities/trips with little risk. There are usually few incidents and they are usually of such a nature that they can be dealt with locally.

Traning and Preparations

You should be used to being out in nature, and be in normal good physical shape to participate. The sleds we use on this course typically weigh 20–30 kilograms when packed with all necessary gear.

Conditions in the mountains can be demanding in winter. It can be cold and windy, but if you are interested in testing whether ski expeditions are something for you, and at the same time learn more about ski expeditions, this can be a very good opportunity. If we're lucky, we can also get really great winter weather!

If you want to do some specific training beforehand, we recommend tire pulling. Here you can find more information about tire pulling training.

Accommodation

The first night we sleep at Bygdin Mountain Lodge, where we share a twin room with someone of the same sex. If you want a single room this night, you can reserve one when you register at an additional cost of 1.250 NOK.

We’ll spend two nights camping, with two-three people of the same gender sharing a tent. If you prefer to sleep alone, we recommend bringing your own tent. 

Additional Information

The easiest way to get to Bygdin Mountain Lodge is either to drive there, or to take a bus from Oslo via Beitostølen. These buses run several times each day. Please let us know if you need assistance to get from Beitostølen to Bygdin. If you want to drive your own car to Bygdin, it is important that you arrive before 20.00 (8.00 PM) since the road going into Bygdin closes after this.

While camping, meals mainly consist of freeze-dried expedition food, and oatmeal for breakfast.

Related content

People skiing with sleds.

Good to know about our ski expeditions

Read more

Equipment list

This list is intended as a guideline, so that we have what we need regardless of the weather we get on the trip. Remember that you can also get used outdoor equipment that works perfectly. Get in touch if you have any questions. TIP: We recommend that you have the most important equipment in your hand luggage, for example hiking boots and gore-tex jacket/trousers.

Obligatory

Clothing

We recommend wool underwear for both men and women. Wool sportstop is recommended for women. A boxershorts with windstopper is recommended for cold days. 

Not too thick, bring more layers if necessary. Top and bottom.

Wool, 2-3 paris.

2-3 pairs. Wool or synthetic material.

Fleece or wool. 

Down or synthetic insulation, featuring a hood and ideally long enough to cover the butt.

Gore-Tex or similar. Must be waterproof and windproof,  zips for ventilation are recommended.

Warm hat for cold days.

The overmittens should be roomy and extend well up the forearm. They should be windproof and ideally handle some moisture. They need to provide a good grip, even with the inner mittens inside. The inner mittens should be thick and warm, preferably made of wool.

Footwear

Warm ski boots for binding type BC (with manual closure), 75mm/3-pin, or Xplore. Slightly large, so that there is room for thick socks (or even two pairs). The shoes must be well used to avoid blisters. May have integrated gaiters. Make sure that your bindings and boots are compatible.

Equipment

Comfort temperature rating of at least -20°C. Both down and synthetic are fine, remember to pack it in a waterproof bag. A liner can increase the comfort temperature.

For winter use. For example Exped down mat or Thermarest NeoAir. Used together with the flat sleeping mat.

Flat type made of closed-cell foam, e.g., Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite. Designed to be used underneath an inflatable sleeping mat.

Waterproof pack bags to keep your clothes and gear dry, organized, and help reduce volume. It is especially important to have dedicated waterproof bags for essential equipment on your trip, such as your sleeping bag, down jacket, and electronics.

They can be used in your backpack while hiking or skiing, in your sled bag on ski expeditions, or in your duffel bag on trips where the bag is carried by porters, mules, or similar.

Remember new/extra batteries.

Personal medicines and, for example, band-aids, blister plaster, sports tape, throat lozenges, nasal drops, Paracetamol/Ibuprofen, stomach regulators, etc.
We need to know about all medicines you are taking, in case something happens. 

Compact and light.

Preferably a spoon with a long handle if you are going to eat freeze dried food.

Alpine snow glasses. To protect your face and eyes in snow, wind and cold conditions.

Nordic backcountry skis, preferably with steel edges. The binding type can be BC with manual closure, 75mm/3-pin, or Xplore. Make sure that your bindings and boots are compatible. The poles should have large baskets.

We mostly use short skins, but should we be unlucky with the conditions (hard and icy or lots of powder snow), long skins often work best.

A small bag with antibac, and dog poop bags for used wet wipes etc. Here you can also keep toilet paper, and matches to burn used toilet paper.

2 x 1 litre bottles, with insulation cover, so they dont freeze. For example Nalgene bottles with wide mouth. They can handle hot water, so you can use them to keep warm in the sleeping bag. If you do not have 2 bottles you can bring an extra thermos instead (must be 3 litres of water capacity all together).

1-2 litre (3 litres all together in thermos and waterbottles).

Recommended

Clothing

Down or synthetic insulation. Should be roomy, making them easy to wear over shell pants, preferably with a full-length side zipper. 

Thin, ultra light.

For warmer days, and as a hat when sleeping.

High gaiters for protection against wind, snow, moisture, and icing on boots and laces. Mandatory if you don’t have ski boots or pants with integrated gaiters.

Footwear

Lightweight  and back up very small. Keep your feet warm inside the tent, sleeping bag or while walking around camp. Down or synthetic filling. In addition, warm and good footwear in case of emergency, if your feet are very cold.

Equipment

To increase the comfort temperature in your sleeping bag.

Tooth brush, tooth paste, small towel, ear plugs, wet wipes, biodegradable soap, etc.

Nuts, chocolate, energy bars, etc.

If youre a light sleeper.

For hot drinks in breaks and in camp.

Such as hot chocolate, hot lemonade or berry drinks etc.

For example Piteraq HD. Be sure to have the right size, that fits your sleeping mats.

Packing Tips

We lend out Paris Expedition transport sleds, sled harnesses, and rope drafts. If you would rather use your own equipment, please let us know in advance. Note that it is not possible to attach rigid shafts to our sleds, so if you bring your own rigid shafts, you must also bring your own sled. If you are unsure of how the rope draft should be set up, you can bring rope and carabiners and get help assembling the equipment at Bygdin. Or you can read our page about DIY Sled Rope-Pulling System.

Rental of sled, harness, and rope pull is included in the course price. The sled comes with a large sled bag, but please note that it is not waterproof. It is essential to pack your gear, clothes, and sleeping bag in 100% waterproof dry bags before storing them in the sled bag. Even if you already have a cover on your sleeping bag, it is important that you pack it in a waterproof drybag as well.

Since everyone will be pulling their own pulk, we recommend packing as lightly as possible. This is very important to have a successful trip. Excess luggage that you do not take with you on the skiing expedition can be left at the hotel or in your car. 

Normal temperature down to −20 °C, but lower temperatures cannot be ruled out. If you tend to get cold easily, we recommend a warmer sleeping bag, or alternatively a wool or fleece liner/an extra sleeping bag for additional insulation.

Read more about packing and prep.

TIP: Travel in your outdoor clothes. We recommend that you have the most important outdoor equipment in your hand luggage, for example ski boots and gore-tex jacket/trousers.

We will also provide the following shared and safety equipment:

  • Camp stoves and fuel
  • First aid
  • Expedition tents
  • Satellite telephone
  • Snow shovels
  • Navigation gear (GPS, map og compass)
  • Pots
  • Food (Mainly freeze dried food during the ski trip, oat porridge for breakfast.)
  • Probe
  • Harnesses and rope pulls for sleds
  • Sleds (Paris Expedition transportation sled.)
  • Sled bags (One big sled bag that fits in the sled keeps all your gear away from the snow. NOTE: The bag is not waterproof, so you will still need dry bags for your gear/clothes/sleeping bag.)
  • Sled straps (Bungee cords/elastic straps with hooks for securing gear in the sled.)

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Testimonial

What an amazing weekend! Thank you Kristoffer and Jørgen for being such fun and welcoming guides. I learnt a lot about winter camping, map orienteering in different snow conditions, and about avalanche safety. It was also wonderful to meet the lovely group, and chat whilst skiing in the amazing Jotunheimen landscape. I hope to book another, longer expedition course with Norrona like the Trondheim-border course :) Tusen takk!

– Flora, 2025

Testimonial

Extremely good and competent tour leaders. Elise in particular has immense knowledge and works really well as an instructor. Excellent setup. Highly recommended for both experienced and inexperienced participants.

– Thomas, 2023

Testimonial

Fantastic surroundings and professional staff.

– Oscar, 2021