Five short mountain hikes on Kvaløya

You do not need to walk for hours to get spectacular views in the Tromsø region. Kvaløya has several short mountain hikes where the reward comes quickly – with views across fjords, open sea and sharp peaks.

The hikes below are summer and autumn hikes (roughly June–October). In winter and spring, ice and snow can make even short routes dangerous, and Visit Tromsø advises against doing them during that period.

Before you go: season and safety

• Check the weather on Yr – on Kvaløya the weather changes quickly, and the wind is often stronger at the summit than at the car park.
• Follow the Norwegian Mountain Code – plan your trip, let someone know where you are going, and turn back in good time.
• In winter and spring: check the avalanche forecast on varsom.no before heading into the mountains, learn to recognise avalanche terrain (free course in Varsom Snøskredskolen) – or go with a qualified guide.
• Bring a windproof jacket, an extra warm layer, good footwear and something to drink, even on short hikes.

Nattmålsfjellet – the classic from Kattfjordeidet

Nattmålsfjellet is one of the most popular short hikes on Kvaløya. The route starts at Kattfjordeidet and climbs steadily through easy terrain: approximately 1.9 km and 180 metres of ascent, taking around one hour. The views across fjord and mountain open up early on.

A great afternoon walk on the long light summer evenings, and well suited to families and beginners.

Hillesøytoppen – sea views towards Sommarøy

At the outermost edge towards the sea lies Hillesøytoppen (210 m above sea level), a short hike with views over Sommarøy, Hillesøy and the white beaches at the far end of Kvaløya.

The path is clear and relatively straightforward, but steeper near the summit. On clear days this is one of the most beautiful short hikes in the Tromsø area.

Trehørningen – quiet and surprisingly beautiful

Trehørningen (283 m above sea level) runs from Bellvika towards Skulsfjord and takes around 30 minutes to climb. The terrain is easy going, and the summit offers views over Skulsfjord, Vengsøy and the surrounding mountains.

A great hike for those who want calmer surroundings and fewer people on the trail.

Smørstabben – a short walk above Grøtfjorden

Smørstabben is a short mountain hike with views towards Grøtfjorden, the mountains of Kvaløya and the open sea beyond. Terrain and weather can change quickly out here, so bring an extra layer even if the hike is short.

The Grøtfjord area is known for the northern lights in winter – but the mountain hike itself is a summer and autumn route.

Brosmetinden – the most views, the most exposed

Brosmetinden (525 m above sea level) is the most demanding of the five. You start from a car park at nearly 300 metres, and the hike takes around one hour to the top. The views over the sharp peaks of Kvaløya and the sea are spectacular.

Note: The route along the outer edge has exposed sections. Keep well back from the edge, and consider the hike carefully with young children or in wind and poor visibility.

Experience the best of Kvaløya

These five hikes offer a rich experience of nature without the longest or most demanding routes. Remember that the weather changes quickly, and that it is often the walk itself – not just the summit – that becomes the highlight of the day.

Need a windproof jacket, good hiking boots or an extra wool layer before you go? We are happy to help you in our shops at Jekta and in Veita.

Sources

• Visit Tromsø – 5 enkle fjellturer — altitudes, time estimates and the advice to avoid the hikes in winter and spring
• UT.no (DNT) – Nattmålsfjellet på Kvaløya — distance, elevation gain, time estimates and season (June–September)
• Visit Tromsø – Winter hiking in Tromsø — avalanche terrain in winter and the use of a guide
• DNT – Fjellvettreglene — the nine rules of the Norwegian Mountain Code
• Varsom.no (NVE) – Snøskred — daily avalanche forecasts, including for Tromsø
• Varsom.no – Snøskredskolen — free introductory course in avalanche awareness and avalanche terrain

Last checked 19.10.2026.