Ski camp expedition to Newtontoppen

Join this 4 -day backcountry ski camp expedition to Newtontoppen – Svalbards higest peak. It is a multi-day ski touring expedition to an area on Svalbard, which is known for its good snow conditions for ski touring. The adventure starts with 180 km of snowmobile transport. This will be a ski camp adventure out of the ordinary. 

Highlights for Svalbard ski camp
to Newtontoppen

Focus on backcountry skiing in one of the most unique places on Earth. From Longyearbyen to Newtontoppen.

Requires backcountry skiing experience. You can read more about difficulty levels here: 
See difficulty level description for Svalbard tours here

You can book as a single person too as our booking are “open expeditions” which means we combine individual booking into small groups. You don’t need to come as a pre-formed group. We only have small groups to get the biggest and best experience

Ski camp at the higest mountain on Svalbard: Newtontoppen

What you can look forward to...

This ski touring camp to Newtontoppen is a 4 days/3 nights adventure where you’ll live and breathe the rythm of the Arctic. Our focus will be ski touring as much as possible in this spectacular area. You’ll be skiing untouched slopes, creating new lines, sharing stories by the camp stove, enjoying the silence, and watch the sky under the midnight sun. 

Are you looking for the challenge to visit the highest mountain peak (1713 m) on Svalbard for backcountry skiing? Are you ready to carve your own lines at the top of the world?

Open to read the itinerary

Who can participate?*

The Newtontoppen Ski Camp is designed for those who are looking for both a physical challenge and a unique Arctic adventure within ski touring. You need to have stamina to climb the mountain as well as navigate on the descent through powder snow.  

Ski touring camp in the backcountry of Svalbard. Experienced skiers descending untouched Artic slope down to basecamp on the ski camp expedition
Photo by: Jonas Haass

Itinerary: Day by Day

Pre-expedition requirement: Arrival and Briefing

You must arrive in Longyearbyen one day prior to the expedition for the mandatory briefing and gear packing. Tomorrow your expedition will begin.

Note: Accommodation, transfer, meals etc. is not included for this day in Longyearbyen. We will be happy to help you arrange this for you..

Day 1: The journey north towards Newtontoppen basecamp

We will pick you up at your hotel and do a final gear check before this exclusive adventure begins with a 180 km snowmobile journey across the frozen landscape, taking you into one of the most remote areas of Svalbard. As we move outside Management Area 10 then tourists cannot drive their own scooters, they must be transported by local people.

Located in the heart of Svalbard, Newtontoppen is the highest peak on the island, rising to 1,713 meters above sea level. The Atomfjella area is renowned for its excellent snow conditions, making it a prime location for advanced skiers looking for a truly extraordinary experience. Newtontoppen is a prime destination for ski touring due to exceptional snow conditions and breathtaking scenery. We will use our days well and get physical challenged, experience spectacular Arctic nature, and the opportunity to experience Svalbard's highest mountain in a unique, guided, and safe way.

Once at Newtontoppen, we’ll establish camp, providing an immersive mountain experience with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You’ll enjoy hearty meals, rest, and camaraderie in the unique setting of one of the Arctic’s most isolated locations. You’ll spend 3 nights camping at Newtontoppen, immersed in stunning nature, good food, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Day 2: First ski tour & camp life

Our expert guides will make safety a top priority, carefully assessing avalanche risks and other potential hazards. This tour is restricted in amount of participants to ensure a personal, exclusive experience with the best attention to detail.

Surrounded by towering peaks and vast glaciers, your time at Newtontoppen will be filled with breathtaking scenery and opportunities to immerse yourself in the harsh yet mesmerizing Arctic landscape. Should weather conditions be unfavorable, we have flexible options to relocate the camp to a safer location.

We will start the day with a breakfast to keep the energi level high and then gear up for our first ski touring adventure in the Newtontoppen region.

Day 3: Summit day on Newtontoppen

We will have a steady climb on skis with breathtaking glacier views and on the top we can celebrate with photos before decending long, open slopes back towards camp. This will also be our final night in basecamp where we can share our reflections from the journey.

Day 4: Camp breakdown & return to Longyearbyen

In the morning we will have a breakdown of camp and packing the sleds to go back to civilization. The snowmobile ride back through the high Arctic landscape will give you time to think of all the fun and memories you have had. We arrive in Longyearbyen by afternoon, tired, exhilirated, and forever changed from our ski camp experience.

Post expedition recommendation

We highly recommend spending 1-2 days after the expedition in Longyearbyen and before flying home. Arctic weather can delay the return from the mountains, and these buffer days ensure you do not miss your flight. We can also recommend our backyard for ski touring from town before going back home.

Note: Accommodation, meals etc. is not included for this day in Longyearbyen. We will be happy to help you arrange this for you.

The Guides

Peter Alex Wainwright

ACMC – Ski guide

Clement Carasco

Ski guide

Jonas Haass

Arctic Nature Guide and Splitboarder

Niall Finch

Arctic nature guide and ACMC glacier guide

Andreas Gschwentner

Svalbard guide with SGO

Brage James Fuglestad

Arctic Nature Guide with AST 2

Fredrik Aurell

Experienced guide

Erlend Kjørsvik

CEO and arctic nature guide with AST 2

Jack Arnold

Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect for ski camp

when ski touring from Newtontoppen

Discover the answers to the most frequently asked questions about your trip—what to bring, how to prepare, and what to expect along the way. If you have any further queries, please don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re here to help!

Before booking

No prior polar expedition experience is required, and this trip is suitable for first-time adventurers, but you must be an intermediate to advanced backcountry skier in good physical shape.

Our guides will teach you survival skills in Arctic, and will help you facilitate for a great experience. The expeditions range in difficulty depending on weather, but a basic level of skill and stamina is required to handle challenging Arctic conditions with sometimes cold temperatures. Otherwise, this trip is perfect entry-level choice for fit adventurers who want to experience their first multi-day Arctic expedition.

For Svalbard expeditions, we use specialized skis suited for Arctic terrain, such as cross-country skis with steel edges.

Traditional cross-country skis without steel edges are not suitable or safe for the Arctic wilderness.

You can rent or bring your own equipment. If you have questions, feel free to contact us regarding the equipment.

The weather can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures ranging from -5°C to -20°C. Wind and snowstorms are possible, so it’s important to be prepared for extreme weather and follow the guide’s instructions at all times.

Yes, we highly recommend booking your expedition in advance. Early booking guarantees your spot and allows us to tailor the experience to your needs.

Yes, solo travelers are welcome! Our ski expeditions are designed to cater to small groups, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded adventurers. We ensure a supportive and safe environment for all participants.

The booking process

You can bring your own ski and avalanche equipment, but you can also easily rent quality ski gear through us. We recommend booking your rental gear well in advance of your trip. 

Yes, you need a travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, and trip cancellations. It’s essential to ensure you’re covered in case of unforeseen events during your Arctic adventure.

You can fly into Longyearbyen, the main settlement in Svalbard, via connecting flights from Oslo. Once in Longyearbyen, we will arrange transportation to the start of the expedition.

During the ski camp expedition

For the ski expedition, you need the clothings, sleeping bag, matress, harness, shovel and ski equipment. A throughout packing list will be provided upon booking. You may rent sleeping bag, matress, harness, shovel and skiing equipment in Longyearbyen.

We provide all tents, cooking equipment, pulkas and safety kits required for the expedition. If you’re unsure about any gear, feel free to ask us for advice on what to pack.

Polar Bear Watch is an essential safety measure during all ski expeditions in Svalbard. Given the presence of polar bears in the region, your guide will monitor the surroundings for any bear activity. During night we need a polar bear watch, so each participant needs to be on watch on shifts. If a polar bear is sighted, the group will be immediately instructed to take safety precautions. Polar bear protection is vital, and guides are trained in bear safety and using deterrents like flare guns and rifles.

Svalbard is home to diverse Arctic wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot animals like reindeer, seals, and even polar bears from a distance. However, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and safety precautions are in place when in polar bear territory.

Your safety is our priority. If weather conditions make the expedition too dangerous, the guide will assess the situation and may adjust the itinerary or postpone parts of the expedition. We always have contingency plans in place to ensure your safety.

If you are unable to continue, your guide will assess the situation and arrange for evacuation or assistance as needed. There are safety protocols in place to ensure that every participant is safe and well taken care of. Search- and Rescue operations are covered by our insurance.

Meals are typically provided by the guides, focusing on energy-boosting meals suitable for the cold environment. If you have dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance, and we will accommodate your needs.

We need information upon booking what food allergies or dietary restrictions you have to accommodate this request.

Packing list & what gear you should bring

Here you can find answers to some of your questions regarding the ski Svalbard crossing ski expedition. 

  • Beanie
  • Buff/neck warmer
  • Neoprene mask
  • Warm mittens
  • Gloves
  • Wool underwear; longs + jersey + extra change
  • Intermediate garments; wool or fleece
  • Down jacket
  • Windproof shell clothing
  • Wool socks
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Goggles / ski goggles
  • Bottle 1 L / 2 á 0.5 L Nalgene
  • SPF Sunscreen
  • Moisturizer (non-water based to prevent freezing)
  • Toe and hand warmers (heat packs)
  • Insulted thermos 0.8 – 1 L
  • Hygiene kit (tooth brush, tooth paste etc.)
  • lip balm
  • Pain reliever/ necessary medication / compeed
  • Camp comfort activity (book, crosswords, music, knitting..etc)
  • Sleeping bag with comfort temperature -25°C minimum.
    (Available for rent NOK 780,- for the trip)
  • Matress and an insulated inflatable mattress term-a-rest or similar
    (Available for rent: NOK 580 for the trip)

Backcountry ski gear

  • Backcountry touring skis with steel edges (XC) 
  • Warm Ski boots (XC)
  • Climbing skins
  • Ski touring ski crampons
  • Ski helmet

Avalanche safety gear

  • Shovel (metal)
  • Avalanche Probe
  • Avalanche transceiver (Sender/receiver)

Glacier gear

  • Harness
  • Carabiner

Ski boots, skis, poles and skins (rentable)

Join Ski touring on top of the World at Newtontoppen ski camp

Save your spot

Book ski camp to Newtontoppen

If you need to get in touch before booking please contact us here: click here

What's included and what's not

Included

Gear you will get from us
  • Transportation from hotel and back to hotel
  • Transportation with snowmobile to starting point and end point
  • Tent (Shared)
  • Common equipment
  • Food (Dinner, Breakfast)
  • Snacks on the tour
  • Beverage (non-alcoholic)
  • Camping gear 
  • Cooking equipment
  • Snowmobile suiting
  • Guides with emergency equipment
  • Applications
  • SAR-insurance

Not included

Gear you will need to bring or rent
  • Clothes
  • Personal equipment
  • Sleeping bag and sleeping mattress (possible to rent)
  • Ski equipment (skis, skins, poles, avalanche equipment, boots, helmet)
    (possible to rent)
  • Accomodation in Longyearbyen
    (We can help arrange)
  • Travel & cancellation insurance
  • Flights (you can book via SAS or Norwegian)

See rental prices here

 

Practical information

Things you need to be aware of
  • The itinerary is always weather dependent and the tour/activity can be modified or cancelled due to safety concerns. Please see conditions.
  • To drive a snowmobile you need a valid class B driver’s license under the “Vienna Convention on Road Traffic of 1968” act. The driver’s license must always be carried with you psycially (not online).
  • A valid passport and travel health insurance must be presented.
  • Svalbard have a 0‰ alcohol tolerance for driving a snowmobile. If this is not respected, you cannot participate in the tour and you are not entitled to a refund.

Preparing for a ski touring adventure

on Newtontoppen

Remote Location:

Newtontoppen is located in a remote part of Spitsbergen, Svalbard, and we recommend ensuring good flexibility with your flights and extra nights before and after, as weather changes can impact travel times and logistics.

Challenging Terrain:

The final section of the snowmobile route to Atomfjella and Newtontoppen involves traveling outside Management Area 10, where you cannot drive your own snowmobile. Local people will transport you for this portion of the journey.

Camp Setup:

Upon arrival at Newtontoppen, we will set up tents and camp facilities. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, and we may adjust the camp location as needed. Rest assured, we have extensive experience dealing with variable conditions.

Camping Gear:

We provide tents and shared camping equipment. Sleeping bags and sleeping mats are available for rent, as well as ski and avalanche equipment for those who don’t bring their own.

Minimum experience level:

Participants should have an intermediate level of skiing ability to join this trip.

Ski expedition on a beautiful winter with mountains and landscape around

1. Snowmobile adventure

Your journey begins with an exhilarating 180 km snowmobile ride across the frozen tundra. This challenging transport will bring you to the base of Newtontoppen.

Join an exclusive ski camp expedition on Svalbard

2. Ski camp for 4 days

Once at Newtontoppen, we’ll establish camp, providing an immersive mountain experience with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You’ll enjoy hearty meals, rest, and camaraderie in the unique setting of one of the Arctic’s most isolated locations. 

Ski Camp expedition with Backyard Svalbard
Photo by Jonas Haass

3. Ski touring days

Newtontoppen is a prime destination for ski touring due to exceptional snow conditions and breathtaking scenery. We will use our days well and get physical challenged, experience spectacular Arctic nature, and the opportunity to experience Svalbard’s highest mountain in a unique, guided, and safe way.

4. Stunning Arctic Views

Surrounded by towering peaks and vast glaciers, your time at Newtontoppen will be filled with breathtaking scenery and opportunities to immerse yourself in the harsh yet mesmerizing Arctic landscape. Should weather conditions be unfavorable, we have flexible options to relocate the camp to a safer location.

5. Safety is a priority

Our experienced guides are experts in navigating the Arctic’s unique challenges, including avalanches, extreme weather, and difficult terrain. They will ensure that safety is always a top priority while providing insightful instruction on skiing, mountaineering, and Arctic survival skills.

Don't miss out on the most amazing ski touring experiences on Svalbard

6. Small group for a personalized experience:

With only 8 participants, this tour offers an exclusive, intimate setting, where everyone can receive personalized attention from our guides and enjoy the shared experience of conquering Newtontoppen together.
Ski touring camp on Svalbard

Choose the best Svalbard expedition

Don’t just visit the Arctic—experience it in the most intimate, adventurous way possible. Reach out now to start planning your adventure.

Get access to our backyard and early bird offers before others

An adventure is loading and you will be the first to get the information…

You sign up to a free subscription to the newsletter about excursions on Svalbard. You can unsubscribe with one click, if you do not find it interesting.