May ski tour: when the snow is still holding and the sun is already warming

A spring ski tour in Norway's stunning national parks is absolutely the idea! You'll be able to enjoy both the snow and the sunshine – how amazing is that! May is the best month to visit the mountains! The snow is still reliable, and the days are long and sunny. Get ready for the experience of a lifetime on the world-famous 'cornice cruise' along the most beautiful routes, with easy train connections on the Oslo–Bergen Line so you don't have to turn back!

Why is Jotunheimen one of the best places for spring ski touring?

Jotunheimen is a place where you can ski on high mountain slopes and across different types of terrain. In May, the snow is still firm and the weather is nice for long day trips. The park is popular with ski tourers because it has beautiful views and routes of different levels of difficulty. DNT huts (like Gjendesheim and Glitterheim) are in great spots and have comfortable rooms.

Which ski and ski touring huts are worth using during the route?

The best options are the Finsehytta and Kraekkja huts in Hardangervidda and Gjendesheim in Jotunheimen. They are located along popular ski routes and provide comfortable places to stay overnight. Here you can dry your clothes and equipment, rest after a day of skiing and get more food.

What should be included in a bivy kit that is essential for a safe spring ski tour?

To stay safe on a spring ski tour, take a small sleeping bag, a warm blanket, a small amount of food, a gas burner, a lightweight tent or bivy bag, a first aid kit, a headlamp and warm clothes. It's also a good idea to have an avalanche kit with a transceiver, shovel and probe, and a charged mobile phone with GPS.

What are the benefits of 'shuttle-free ski touring' with the Oslo-Bergen Line?

The famous Oslo–Bergen Line lets you ski from one place to the next without having to go back to where you started ('shuttle'). You can start your tour at one station and finish it at the next one. This approach lets you see more of the landscape and makes the trip easier and more enjoyable.

What safety precautions should you take on a spring ski tour?

Make sure you check the avalanche forecast on varsom.no before you go out. Make sure you have the right avalanche equipment, don't go alone, and let your family know your route in advance. Also, check the weather forecast on yr.no to avoid any sudden changes on your route.

What's the best way to plan the route for a spring ski trip?

In spring, choose routes with moderate slopes and avoid slopes where avalanches are likely. The best routes are the ones that have been used a lot in Jotunheimen and Hardangervidda, and the paths are clearly marked. Look at the maps carefully and ask local guides for advice if you are unsure about your choice.

Why is May the best month for ski touring in Norway?

In May, the days are longest and the weather is sunny, making it a comfortable time to travel. The snow is quite solid, so it's a good place to go skiing. Also, there are fewer tourists and the weather is nicer in May than in the winter, so it's a great time to visit.

Which flowers and natural features can you see during a spring ski tour?

In spring, nature in the national parks slowly starts to wake up. As you walk along the paths, you will see the first alpine flowers, such as snowdrops and crocuses, appearing from under the snow. You may also see animals like moose and reindeer coming out of hibernation and starting to move around a lot in search of food.

A spring ski tour in Norway's beautiful national parks is a really special way to experience the winter magic of the mountains in the warm sunshine. All you need to do is hop on the Oslo–Bergen Line train, plan your safe and beautiful route, and you'll be able to enjoy all of Norway's unique and beautiful nature!

We'd absolutely love to hear about your routes and what you thought of your spring ski tours, so please share your comments below! We would absolutely love to publish the best stories and photos in our catalogue to inspire other travellers to make new discoveries!