A woman on nordic backcountry skis in the mountains.

Nordic ski touring

Have you hiked in the mountains before and are curious about what a winter mountain trip is like? Backcountry skiing is a wonderful way to find out. You’ll recognise everything you love about the mountains in summer – the nature experience, the sense of freedom and the community at STF’s accommodations. The tour can be fully adapted to your own ability.

With touring skis on your feet, you can explore untouched mountain terrain in winter. This differs from cross-country skiing, which requires groomed tracks and often takes place near resorts. The difference between touring skis and cross-country skis is that touring skis are more stable – they are wider, thicker and often have steel edges that make downhill sections easier. You also use sturdier and warmer boots. While cross-country skiing is often seen as exercise, touring skis are more about exploration. These trips don’t have to be difficult – even young children can join a winter tour, and the very youngest can ride in a pulk. If you’re a beginner, it’s wise to start by following marked winter trails on flat terrain. Over time, you can begin exploring mountain slopes.

The equipment is largely the same for beginners and experienced skiers. Some skis are suited for flat terrain and deep snow, but most resemble alpine skis, meaning they have steel edges for better grip on mountain slopes. You can get advice and rent equipment at several of STF’s mountain stations.

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Ski touring experiences

Abisko – Try Nordic backcountry skis

Lappland

With a guide

Day activity

From 850 SEK

Abisko – Private guide (winter)

Abisko-Kebnekaise mountains

With a guide

Day activity

From 3500 SEK

Show all activities

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.

Tips for beginners

Choose the right skis for your tour. Beginners should use skis that match their own height, while more experienced skiers may prefer slightly longer skis. A good tip is to start with waxless skis for simplicity. You can rent skis at several of our mountain stations.
Dress in layers. Wear wool or technical materials and avoid cotton to stay warm and dry, even if you get wet or sweat. Use shell clothing as your outer layer, preferably with enough room for extra layers underneath and a proper hood for wind protection. Wearing double socks can help prevent blisters. Avoid boots that are too tight to keep your feet warm.
Pack smart to avoid carrying unnecessary weight. A 40-litre backpack is enough for a day trip.
A map and compass will help you plan your tour and are essential to bring. You can also carry a GPS or download a digital mountain map for offline use on your phone. Keep in mind that mobile coverage is often limited and that batteries and power banks are very sensitive to cold.
Avoid travelling alone in the winter mountains, follow marked trails and always leave a trip plan. The most important part is when you expect to return and that you will check in.
Bring a first aid kit, including an elastic bandage and blister plasters. Read more about safety at Fjallsakerhetsradet.se (opens in new tab).
Mountain weather can change quickly. Check the forecast again before heading out and adapt your plans accordingly.
In windy and snowy conditions, a bivy bag is useful as simple protection from wind and rain. You can also bring a snow shovel and dig a shelter to sit in out of the wind. A thin rope for navigating between trail markers in poor visibility is also recommended.
Bring more food and warm drinks than you think you’ll need in case something happens.
Use sunscreen and wear sunglasses even on cloudy days, as the snow reflects the sun.
In national parks and nature reserves, the right of public access may vary depending on the area. Our STF hosts are happy to inform you about the rules for the specific place you plan to visit.