Nordic ski touring

Have you hiked in the mountains before and are curious about what a mountain adventure is like in winter? Then ski touring is a wonderful way to find out. You’ll recognize everything you love about the summer mountains, like the nature experience, the sense of freedom, and the camaraderie at STF’s accommodations. The tour can be completely tailored to your own abilities.

Ski touring experiences

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Abisko – Hire a private guide (winter)

Abisko-Kebnekaise mountains

With a guide

Day activity

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Abisko – First mountain tour

Abisko-Kebnekaise mountains

With a guide

Multiple days

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Kungsleden Abisko – Kebnekaise on Nordic backcountry skis

Abisko-Kebnekaise mountains

With a guide

Multiple days

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Abisko – Try Nordic backcountry skis

Lappland

With a guide

Day activity

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What is nordic ski touring?

With nordic touring skis on your feet, you can explore completely untouched mountain terrain. It differs from cross-country skiing, which usually requires groomed tracks and often takes place near resorts. The difference between nordic touring skis and cross-country skis is that a pair of nordic touring skis is more stable. They are slightly wider, thicker, and often have an edge that makes downhill skiing easier. You also wear a more stable and warmer boot. While cross-country skiing is a form of exercise, nordic ski touring is more about exploring. These adventures don’t have to be challenging – even young children can come along. However, if you’re a beginner, it’s wise to stick to marked winter trails on flat terrain.

The ski equipment is roughly the same for beginners as it is for professionals. Some of them are suitable for flat terrain with loose snow, but most resemble downhill skis, meaning they have an edge that provides better grip while traveling more diagonally in the terrain. You can get tips and rent equipment at several of the STF mountain stations.

Rent your equipment

At most mountain stations, you can rent equipment, which is great for both your wallet and the environment. Did you know that as an STF member, you get a discount when you rent equipment?

Tips for beginners

1. Choose the right skis for your tour. Beginners should use skis that match their height, while skis for experts can be slightly longer. For simplicity, it’s a good idea to start with wax-free skis. You can rent skis at several of our mountain stations.
2. Dress according to the layering principle. Use wool or functional materials and avoid cotton to stay warm and dry even if you get wet or sweaty. Wear outer shell clothing with enough space for layers underneath and a sturdy hood to protect against the wind. Double socks can help prevent blisters. Make sure your boots aren’t too tight, so your feet don’t get cold.
3. Pack smart to avoid carrying unnecessary weight. A 40-liter backpack is sufficient for a day trip.
4. A map and compass are essential for planning your route and must be included in your gear. You can also bring a GPS or download a digital mountain map to use offline on your phone. Keep in mind that phones rarely have coverage in the mountains and that batteries and power banks are very sensitive to the cold.
5. Avoid traveling alone in the winter mountains, stick to marked trails, and always leave a trip plan. The most important details in your plan are when you expect to return and that you will check in upon arrival.
6. Bring a first aid kit, an elastic bandage, and blister plasters. For more safety tips, visit Fjällsäkerhetsrådet.se.
7. Mountain weather can change quickly. Check the weather forecast one more time before heading out and adjust your plans accordingly.
8. When it’s windy and snow is drifting, a wind sack (a simple wind and rain shelter) is useful. You can also bring a bivouac shovel to dig a sheltered spot to sit in. A thin rope for navigating between trail markers in poor visibility is also recommended.
9. Bring more food and hot drinks than you think you’ll need in case of an emergency.
10. Use sunscreen and sunglasses even when it’s cloudy, as the snow reflects the sun.
11. In national parks and nature reserves, the rights and responsibilities of public access may vary depending on the area. Our STF hosts are happy to inform you about the specific rules for the location you plan to visit.

Stay close to untouched snow

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STF Storrödtjärn Mountain cabin

Grövelsjön-Rogen

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STF Lunndörren Mountain cabin

The Jämtland mountains

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STF Fulufjällsgården

Dalarna

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STF Ritsem

Laponia

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STF Abiskojaure Mountain cabin

Abisko-Kebnekaise mountains

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STF Nordens Ark

Bohuslän

Stay at an STF Mountain cabin

Flexible booking conditions

When you book through our website, you will always be given flexible booking conditions, regardless of changes to your own holiday plans or the world around you.

Our booking conditions

More tips for you

Skiing

If you love skiing, the winter mountains are a true paradise. Here, you can go cross-country skiing, zoom down the alpine slopes, or head out on a ski tour.

The right equipment

Equipment isn’t everything, but being well-prepared always helps. With good shoes and a comfortable backpack, you can go further.

Lists for packing

Are you wondering what you need to pack for a day trip in the mountains or for a longer hike? On this page you will find packing lists for both summer and winter.