Storfjord: Glaciers, Trails and History

Steindalsbreen is in Steindalen on the west side of Storfjord, between Oteren and Lyngseidet. Otertinden is 1,356 metres high and has two peaks. Together with the deep valleys and salmon-bearing rivers, landscapes like these shape the character of Storfjord.

Mountains, Valleys and a Protected Area

Storfjord encompasses high plateau landscapes and rugged mountain peaks that descend directly to the fjord. In the Lyngsalpan Landscape Protected Area, glaciers, moraines, valleys and geological formations are part of the landscape, alongside biological diversity and cultural heritage. The area includes the municipality of Storfjord. The public should be able to enjoy traditional and simple forms of outdoor recreation there, with little technical infrastructure.

Otertinden is also a prominent landmark in the landscape: the mountain has two peaks and is one of the most photographed subjects in Storfjord. Those interested in the hike to Steindalsbreen will also find signs along the route about Sámi place names, their translations and meanings. The hike takes about two hours along a beautiful mountain trail; the approximate time varies depending on conditions and starting point.

Trails and Outdoor Activities

The Lulledalen forest nature trail is 2.5 kilometres long and has 60 information boards. They cover plant life, geology and wildlife, as well as forestry, past and present. The trail thus combines nature topics with insights into how the forest is used. As the infrastructure of a nature trail can change, it is a good idea to check its current condition before visiting.

Storfjord has a network of mountain biking trails, with its main area in Skibotn. If you would like to explore the area on a rental bike, check availability with local providers. Information about trail conditions can also be helpful when planning your rides. The Skibotnløypa runs from Skibotn through Skibotndalen to the Finnish border at the E8, but is currently closed.

Limited fishing is available in Signaldalselva and Skibotnelva from 1 July to 31 August. Check the current seasonal regulations before fishing. The rivers are part of the region’s landscape, along with its mountains and valleys, but offer a seasonal opportunity for this activity.

Trading History and Border Markers

Two original trading houses remain at Skibotn Markedsplass. Together with two reconstructed trading houses, a blacksmith’s workshop and a tipping well, they make up the museum site. The different buildings give the place a tangible connection to its trading history. During Opheimdagen, middle-school students prepare food on a wood-burning stove as part of the museum programme; this activity is intended for school groups of this age.

Bollmanns-/Russeveien also recalls the war years in Storfjord. Russian, Yugoslav and Polish prisoners of war built the route in the autumn and winter of 1944–45. Today, vegetation has been cleared from it, and signs provide information about those years. The route brings together a visible track and its historical context.

At Goldajavri, Treriksrøysa marks the border point between Norway, Sweden and Finland. The point lies at 69° north latitude, at an altitude of 490 metres, between Signaldalen and Skibotndalen. This location makes Treriksrøysa a distinctive geographical landmark in Storfjord.

Getting There from Tromsø

Storfjord is about a 1.5-hour drive from Tromsø. Actual travel time may vary depending on road and seasonal conditions. When planning your trip, use this as an approximate guide alongside the activities you have in mind and their current conditions.

Discover more destinations: Skibotn, Storfjord, Oteren, Lyngen, Kåfjord, Kvænangen, Tromsø, Bardu.

For the main travel overview: Troms.