The fantastic glacier Steindalsbreen in the Steindalen valley/Gievdanvággi is well worth a visit. The glacier and the valley are both regarded as geological treat – and it’s also worthwhile taking a closer look at the flora near the glacier.
Getting here
The glacier is situated on route 868 between Oteren and Lyngseidet. Follow the road to “IMA Tursenter” and drive up a small hill to the large car park. From the car park, follow the tractor road/path into the valley.
Route description to the Steindal glacier
Initially, the path is uphill before it flattens out on the last section up to the Steindalshytta cabin by the Tverrelva river. The hike up here takes around an hour.When you continue towards the Steindalsbreen glacier, the route is relatively flat until you reach the moraine ridge. From there, it’s relatively steep before flattening out again. This route takes 30 minutes to an hour depending on your form. Hiking from the car park to the glacier and back is 12.4 km and you should allow 5-6 hours in total. Some of the path is marked.
Note: Don’t walk onto the glacier alone unless you have relevant experience! If you want to walk on the glacier, its possible to book a guided tour with Lyngen Outdoor Experience: Glacier Hike Steindalen - Lyngen Outdoor Experiences
Learn about the Steindalen valley and Steindalsbreen glacier
Information signs about the flora and fauna, history and local place names may be found along the entire path. The vegetation down in the valley is diverse and well developed, while up by the glacier it’s characterised by pioneer species. These hardy plants are the first to colonize areas previously covered by ice and snow.Signs have also been erected near the glacier showing its recession year by year.
Did you know that the Steindalbreen glacier has glacier front positions covering a period of more than 8,000 years? The oldest of these are in the lower valley, but completely new spires have started to appear up at the glacier.
Protected nature area
The Steindalen hike is located in a protected nature area, meaning there are some rules that must be followed.
These rules includes:
- No drone flights allowed
- Not allowed by e-bike
- Use fixed fire pits
- Sheep grazing: There are sheeps in the area. Dogs must be kept on a leash, and not let loose under any curcumstances.
- Reindeers grazing: There are reindeer in the area. It is of course perfectly fine to take pictures of the reindeer, but you must keep an appropriate distance. Reindeer herders also have the opportunity to use ATVs, so there may be driving tracks.
For additional information, visit Lyngsalpan Protected Landscape website: Lyngsalpan landscape conservation area
