A moderate ski tour into the heart of Skjomen, with views to Frostisen.

Statistics

6 - 7

hrs

1,331

m

1,331

m

34

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Moderate

Description

The starting point for this trip is in Skjombotn, about 1 hrs drive from Narvik.

In Skjombotn, follow a tractor road until it ends and park your car (there are several spots).

Continue up a steep tractor track.

As you cross the river, stay left (south) (do not follow the marks on the trees leading north-west) and continue up gentle slopes towards Vesterkarelva.

The powerline is visible to your right.

At about 600 metres the slope angle decreases as you enter the open area of Vesterkarelva, with the north face of Meraftestinden to your left.

At around 780 metres, below the col, a short section reaches 35 degrees - be mindful about avalanche conditions.

Work your way up the right side of the slope until you reach the col.

From there head up the slopes on the backside of the ridge.

Stay clear of the cornices on the left (north-west side) of the ridge, particularly near the summit! Descend the same route.

Beware of holes in the snow near the river and the lower sections in the late season.

An alternative descent option wraps around the south side of Meraftestinden.

A steep alternative is the north face - finding the right entrance between the cornices is tricky and the route reaches 45 degrees.

Note: There is cellphone reception on the ridge, but only there and only with Telenor.