Nordenski Idtoppen

Description

Ever wanted to do ski mountaneering in the real arctic? At 78 degrees north, this peak is far closer to the north pole than tha northern shores of Siberia and Alaska. It is still easy accesible by a regular daily passenger-plane (drinks served!) from the norwegian town of Troms? to the settlement: Longyearbyen. The peak itself is situated about 5 km from the settlement to the SW, and rises above the glacier: "Longyearbreen". The best (and safest) route goes up a narrow valley somewhere between the settlement and the airport. You will reach a broad plateau on about 500 meters. Then the route is obvious following the SE ridge to the summit. Allow 4 - 6 hours up and 1 to 2 down. There is several hotels in the settlement, but hire in advance! BEWARE: The climate on the summit resemble the highest peaks of the Himalayas. Pe prepared for fierce snowstorms, temperatures between 10 and 40 below. and whiteout conditions. This is the arctic! The local polar bears are very aggressive. Always carry a rifle. Always talk to the local administrators (sysselmannen) on the airport. Tell them what you plan to do, and follow their advice.

Thanks to Bjorn Revil for this description.