The Hardangervidda crossing
An Unforgettable Journey Through the Hardangervidda’s Pristine Wilderness
Hardangervidda: A Self-Supported Polar Crossing
For nearly eight months of the year, the Hardangervidda plateau transforms into a vast, treeless, and windswept wilderness. Snow blankets the landscape, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a challenging self-supported polar journey. The constant hiss of snow drift – ranging from feather-light powder to a steel-hard crust – fills the air, while the wind carves the snow into furrows, ridges, and frozen waves. This unique environment provides an authentic experience, offering a taste of the conditions faced on a true polar expedition.
The Hardangervidda crossing has long been a challenge for explorers. Even Roald Amundsen, famed for his success in polar exploration, attempted to traverse the plateau on skis, failing multiple times. For years, it was believed to be unconquerable – a testament to the fierce and unpredictable conditions. However, today, with the right mindset, preparation, and fitness, a self-supported crossing of the Hardangervidda is an achievable and immensely rewarding adventure.
This journey is not just about enduring the cold; it's about embracing the stark beauty of the Hardangervidda. The sight of reindeer herds roaming across the snow-covered plains serves as a reminder of the resilience of nature. As you pull your pulk across the frozen expanse, you’ll experience the silence and solitude of this remote wilderness, honing your skills and learning the rhythm of polar travel.
While prior experience with polar expeditions is beneficial, it's not essential. What’s most important is a good level of fitness, adaptability, and a determined attitude. This expedition is the perfect introduction to self-sufficient polar journeys, teaching you to handle your equipment, manage your pulk, and navigate efficiently across the snowy plateau. By the end, you’ll have a taste of what it’s like to be self-reliant in one of the most striking and challenging landscapes on earth.
The Crossing Highlights
Over a 135kms during on Ski or Snowshoe
Frozen lakes, sub zero temperatures, high winds all the elements for a proper adventure
Full instruction on winter/polar camp craft
Self supported journey with public transport use throughout
Chance to see the best show of northern lights in your life
Below is the map of our route through the mountains
What to Expect During Your Hardangervidda Crossings
Conquer the Remote Arctic
Cross the high Arctic plateau of the Hardangervidda on this committing, remote trip
Escape into and endure winter’s extremes
Camp in Hilleberg tents on frozen lakes
Embrace the challenge
Experience pulling a pulk through vast undulating plains, and the enticing challenge of being completely self-supported
Light like nowhere else
Experience the unique winter light, silence and racing cold off the Norwegian winter.
Wild Encounters in the artic wilderness
Encounter the local wildlife: the plateau is home to the largest herd of wild reindeer, as well as Arctic foxes and snowy owls
Sharpen you winter expedition skills
Practice winter navigation and building snow shelters
We only have limited places on each expedition, get in contact today and reserve your spot on our next adventure.
Expedition Safety
Your Safety is Our Top Priority on Every Trip
At Nordur, the safety and well-being of our adventurers are our top priority. We are dedicated to providing a thrilling and immersive journey across the Hardangervidda, while ensuring a secure and well-managed experience.
Our experienced guides are highly skilled in winter navigation, emergency first aid, and risk management. With extensive knowledge of the Hardangervidda’s terrain and ever-changing weather patterns, they are equipped to make informed decisions in real-time, ensuring your safety throughout the expedition.
Prior to the UK-based training course, you will be supplied with a comprehensive equipment list. The training course is not only a chance to learn essential safety protocols, route details, and emergency procedures, but also an opportunity to get hands-on experience with all the gear. You'll practice setting up tents, managing your pulk, and handling night-time routines like stove management. It’s also a great time to meet your guide team and fellow adventurers. Jamie is always available to answer any questions about equipment over the phone or by email, ensuring you’re fully prepared.
Due to the environment we are operating in, only the best group equipment is provided. This includes Hilleberg Keron 3GT tents, Snow Sled pulk systems, and, of course, the essential winter expedition gear:Snow shovel and probes. Emergency equipment we carry is first aid kits, personal locator beacons (PLB), InReach device, and a satellite phone for reliable communication.
If you're ready for this kind of adventure. We’ll work with you to make sure you’re prepared and confident to take on the challenges of the Hardangervidda.
Your Hardangervidda Crossing Expedition Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
After flying into Oslo, we’ll meet at a central hostel, depending on flight times. The atmosphere will shift immediately when we all pile in, surrounded by piles of equipment. You’ll notice the curious looks from other guests as we take over the corridors, sorting through gear, forming new tent teams. There’s always that electric buzz in the air—this is the gear you’ve been thinking about for months, meticulously prepared, now packed into one blue shell with a red bag, ready to be dragged 145km across the frozen wilds.
It feels a bit like the night before Christmas when you were a kid—excitement battling with tiredness. Early start ahead, and the thoughts begin to roll: Am I ready? Am I fit enough? Do I have everything? But that’s part of it, the nervous energy, the shared glances between the group, all knowing we’re in this together. The next day, it’ll all become real.
Day 2: Finse - Fagerheim
Finse – Stepping into the Arctic Gateway
The morning always feels like a blend of rush and calm as we make our way to the station, ensuring our pulks are packed and everything fits. Once we’ve secured our spots on the train, the mood shifts—3.5 hours of relaxation ahead. The journey itself is a chance to settle in, watch the scenery change, and start feeling the pull of the wilderness. By the time the Hardangerjokulen glacier comes into view, you know it’s getting close. Bellies usually full of waffles and hot dogs, we start to pull on our boots and layers, wrapping up as the cold waits for us.
Stepping off at Finse station feels like stepping onto the top of the Cairngorm Plateau—it’s instant. The cold hits, the brightness of the snow is almost blinding, and the world feels vast. We clip into our skis or snowshoes, harnessing up the pulks, and just like that, we’re off, moving across the snow towards our first camp. 15 kilometres ahead of us, and the adventure is truly underway.
Day 3: Fagerheim - Heinseter
Days on the Plateau – Finding Our Path
Each day we’ll make our way across the plateau, moving south-east, but this journey is anything but predictable. Weather, snow conditions, and group experience will guide our decisions, and that’s the beauty of it—no two days are ever the same. Together, we’ll decide our path, avoiding the well-worn trails to camp in places where few people ever go. It’s remote, it’s wild, and there’s something deeply satisfying about finding our own way through.
You’ll get into the rhythm of expedition life: packing up camp in the morning, pulling the pulks across vast white expanses, with each day pushing you a little further. We’ll be on the move for 6 to 10 hours a day, depending on the conditions, but it’s all part of the adventure. Some days will feel long, others will fly by, and every day we’ll be a little closer to the finish line—though the goal is really just to be out there, together, in the heart of the Arctic.
Day 4: Heinseter - Marbu
Skills for the Journey – Preparing for the Next Step
During our time on the plateau, you’ll have the chance to build snow shelters—an essential skill in these environments—and learn winter navigation using poles, snowshoes, and compass bearings in combination. These are not just skills to get through the days, but key lessons for moving confidently through harsh conditions.
By the time we finish, you’ll be ready for the next step on the polar ladder. The skills and experience you gain here will set you up perfectly for more extreme adventures—whether it’s aiming for the poles or venturing into the wilds of Svalbard. This journey is just the beginning, and with what you’ll learn, you’ll be well-prepared for bigger, bolder challenges ahead.
Day 5: Marbu - Nesflot
Mastering the Winter Environment
Throughout the expedition, you’ll dive into the essentials of winter safety—learning about the hazards that come with the season, how to analyse the snowpack, and develop a keen sense of avalanche awareness. These aren’t just survival tips; they’re skills that will give you confidence in making decisions in challenging conditions.
By the end of your expedition, you’ll have a solid foundation in managing yourself in remote, multi-day winter conditions. From mastering winter camp-craft to moving efficiently in snowshoes or skis and pulling pulks, you’ll leave with the experience needed to handle these environments with confidence. It’s a journey of growth, one that takes you deeper into the world of polar travel and prepares you for even greater adventures.
Day 6: Nesflot - Våervatn
Living the Polar Rhythm
Each day begins with the cold nipping at your joints, but there’s something magical about the low Arctic light—it’s a kind of dawn you only find out here, with nothing man-made in sight. Wrapped up warm in your sleeping bag, you can feel the frozen breath you exhaled overnight. The first person to stir lights the stove, slowly thawing the block of ice that was once your water. That’s when you know the day is truly beginning—the frost melts, and the camp comes to life.
There’s a rhythm to it now: roll mats are tidied away, sleeping bags stuffed, clothes tucked in, and tents collapsed. Every movement has a purpose, driven by efficiency but also the growing pleasure of this nomadic life. The real moment of satisfaction comes when everything’s packed—when it’s just you, the harness and poles, skis or snowshoes strapped on, and the open white ahead.
It’s a feeling only those who’ve truly lived the nomadic polar lifestyle can understand—a pure, simple pleasure in knowing that the day is yours to move across the wilderness, with nothing but the rhythm of your own steps and the vastness around you.
Day 7: Våervatn - Rjukan
The Final Descent into Rjukan
Today, we complete our crossing of the Hardangervidda plateau, descending steeply into Rjukan and reaching the comfort of our 3-star Scandinavian winter hut. There’s a sense of celebration in the air—a hearty meal and drinks waiting for us, the warmth of running water just a twist of the tap away. You’ll feel that strange pull: part of you can’t wait to wash off the days of sweat and snow, but there’s already a nagging thought in the back of your mind—What am I losing by stepping back into comfort?
By the time you step out of the shower, you’ll realise just how bad the expedition clothes really smelled, but even then, the pull is there. You’re already scrolling through your phone, looking at the pictures, reliving moments from the journey, and quietly dreaming about your next adventure. It’s a feeling only those who’ve lived this lifestyle understand—no matter how hard it is out there, you’ll want to dive right back in.
Day 8: Travel home
Homeward Bound – A World Apart
As we board the bus back to Oslo, the contrast hits you—after days of isolation on the plateau, we’re suddenly back among the hustle and bustle. The snow and silence give way to the noise of the city as we continue straight onto the train to the airport. It’s always a strange feeling, adjusting from the purity of expedition life to the pace of modern travel.
For those looking to extend their stay, Oslo has much to offer. The Fram Museum, dedicated to polar exploration, is a must-see—just stepping into the museum is like stepping back into the world we’ve just experienced, and it’s worth the journey to Oslo alone. Explore the city, soak up the culture, and reflect on the adventure you’ve just completed.
For the rest of us, it’s time to head home, filled with memories of the Hardangervidda and already thinking ahead to the next adventure. Because no matter how much comfort the city brings, there’s something about the pull of the wilderness that keeps calling us back.
Ready for a trip of a lifetime? Reserve your space on our next expedition below.
But don’t take our word for it have a look below at the media reel that shows you some of the highlights on offer during the week.
Our Hardangervidda Expedition Photo Gallery
The detail
Cost per place on the expedition: £2790
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Accommodation – 1 night hostel, 1 night hotel, 5 nights in tents
All in-country transfers, including airport transfers
Meals – 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 evening meals
Use of pulk system
Mountain tents, stoves and pans
Expedition food and fuel
Medical safety equipment and supplies
Expedition team leader
Access to our RMS team of doctors (please see website information for more details)
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Travel to and from UK airport
International flights and taxes
Personal equipment
Travel insurance
Drinks, snacks and personal spending
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Conditions on the plateau can be challenging; extreme winds, blizzards and whiteouts can make it difficult to gain ground. Also, experience of personal management in challenging conditions will be important. Conditions on the Hardangervidda can be similar to conditions on the Cairngorm plateau on a bad day. A good level of personal fitness and endurance is therefore required to complete this expedition.
Prior to the trip, we will run a free Winter Skills Course, where you will learn managing your kit in winter conditions and setting up camp, as well as using all of the equipment needed.
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For the most part of this trek, we will sleep in wild camps on the plateau. We will be equipped with Hilleberg Keron 3 GT tents – 3 person tents, which are the standard for polar expeditions due to their durability and wind stability. The tents will be shared by two people, to allow for extra room.
On the first day, we stay at a hostel in Oslo, and the last night is spent in a hotel near Rjukan, where we enjoy a traditional Norwegian meal and views of peak Gaustatoppen.
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We will have a substantial breakfast to start the day. Lunches consist of individual ration packs with picnic style foods and high energy foods. Evening meals during the trekking phase will consist of expedition food, which each of us will prepare on their liquid stove.
Please bring with you extra snacks for during the day if required.
If you have food allergies or intolerances, please inform us in your Booking Form. We will aim to cater to your needs, but it is advisable to also bring your own supplies from home.
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This is an unsupported crossing – for the duration of the trip, you will pull a pulk, containing all of your equipment. The pulk will be strapped on with a waist and shoulder harness, connected to the pulk with rigid bars.
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All our UK leaders hold first aid certificates and carry a fully equipped first aid kit for emergencies. We recommend that you carry a personal First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements.
When selecting your trip please carefully read the information and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the trek rating for trip specific information. If you have any concerns, please contact us before booking. Exped Adventure Worldwide Ltd reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of your guide they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the group.
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Visas for entry into Norway are not required by nationals of the UK, Ireland and most EU countries. Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation.
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The local currency is Norwegian Kroner (NOK). We advise you to take local currency with you as there may not be time to obtain currency from banks.
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Please scroll down and you will see the dates :)
Available trip departures
February 08-15th 2025
February 21-28th 2026
March 14-21st 2026
Giving You Unmatched Expertise and Personalisation on Your Trip
Why Choose Nordur for Your Scottish Highland Adventure
Local knowledge
Nordur stands apart in the world of adventure travel with its deep-rooted local expertise. Led by our founder, Jamie, a seasoned guide with over 17 years experience, and is not only a local but a huge enthusiast of the Scottish wilderness, Nordur offers an authentic experience that larger, outsourced tours simply cannot match. We know every hidden trail and secret spot that makes Scotland unique, offering you a richer, more immersive experience.
Sustainability and Respect
At Nordur, we are deeply committed to preserving the stunning landscapes we explore. We practice Leave No Trace principles and engage in efforts to maintain the natural beauty and integrity of the Scottish wilderness. Choosing Nordur means supporting eco-friendly tourism and contributing to the conservation of these magnificent areas for future generations.
Tailored Adventures
Each expedition is carefully crafted to match the desires and abilities of our guests. Nordur specialises in creating personalised experiences that cater to your interests, whether you're seeking thrilling mountain ascents or serene moments by secluded lochs. Our small group sizes ensure that your journey is attentive and responsive to your pace and preferences.
Choosing Nordur means embarking on an expedition where every detail is designed to offer a profound connection with Scotland's natural wonders and cultural heritage. It’s more than just a trek —it’s an expedition into the heart of the wild, guided by those who call it home.
Join us for an unforgettable adventure that pushes your limits and takes you beyond the ordinary, into the extraordinary landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
All-Inclusive Expeditions
From high-quality camping gear to expert navigation and safety equipment, everything you need for your journey is provided. Our packrafts are state-of-the-art and we provide you with full training, ensuring that you can navigate the lochs with ease and safety. With Nordur, you can focus fully on your adventure, knowing that all logistical details are expertly handled.
Ready for an adventure?
When you come on an expedition with Nordur, it’s not just a trip; it’s a pivotal life experience.
Spaces are limited to maintain the quality and intimacy of the expedition. Reserve your place on this extraordinary adventure today and discover why Nordur's Fannichs and Fisherfield expedition is the ultimate Scottish highland adventure.
Not sure this adventure is right for you? Contact us to discuss our LITE version of this trip.
We also offer a whole range of other bucket list adventures, both in Scotland and Internationally. Check out our other expeditions here or give us a call to discuss your perfect adventure.
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