Halddetoppen – or “Sukkertoppen” as Northern Lights researcher Christian Birkeland called it – is one of Alta’s most prominent peaks. It stands out from the other peaks and politely asks for a visit.
For those who enjoy exercise but not walking in bushes and undergrowth, this is an excellent hike. We start hiking along a good gravel road, which becomes a narrow former horse-drawn carriage when we get above the treeline. The final part is relatively rocky and steep.
We estimate the roughly 8 km hike to the summit will take about three hours, but the time we use will depend on the fitness level of the participants and the conditions/weather. Although this is a relatively long hike, many school-age children make it to the top, so this is a perfect option for teenagers. Wear good hiking boots and bring extra clothes (sweater, hat, gloves and long trousers). As we approach the summit, there can be a fresh breeze and it can be a lot colder than when we set off!
The historic buildings on the summit, which are now partially restored, add an extra dimension. We have the key, so we can go inside the buildings to have a look. Depending on the weather, we can eat lunch inside or outside while we enjoy the magnificent panoramic views in all directions. It’s an incredible feeling to look out over Alta and realise how important this place was for research.
Two-day trip
It’s also possible to make the hike up Haldde into a two-day trip. On such trips, we stay overnight at the Northern Lights observatory on the summit and on the second day continue over another peak, Talviktoppen, where Birkeland also erected research buildings. This is without doubt something that very few have experienced. This hike will create memories and a joy of hiking that you will long remember and perhaps stimulate you to create even more memories in the natural landscape together. The two-day hike ends in the Vassbotn Valley in Talvik, where we will be picked up.
We will be accompanied by polar dogs with packsaddles who will help carry the sleeping bags, equipment, food and drink, etc.
As an extra measure this summer, we offer free cancellation of the activity up to one week prior to arrival.
Here are our terms and conditions.
Price
Minimum 2 people
The price includes transfer, guide and lunch.
If you need to be picked up from a hotel or the cruise terminal, please remember to add this when booking.
Duration
8 hours, 09.00 – 17.00 (9am – 5pm)
Availability
This tour is available every day.
We recommend suitable clothing for a day hike in the mountains.
Woollen top, thin insulation garment, wind/waterproof jacket and thick insultation (down jacket/vest, sweater/fleece) for the break
Casual trousers, possibly also long underpants, or even shorts (depending on the temperature and season)
Low hiking boots or solid off-road running shoes
Hat and gloves/mittens
Small backpack (available for hire)
Camera/binoculars
Walking poles (if you are used to using these)