Mountain safety in Lofoten

The Norwegian Mountain Code

The Norwegian Mountain Code was developed by the Red Cross and the Norwegian Trekking Association to raise awareness and reduce the number of injuries. The Norwegian Mountain Code was launched in 1950 but has been revised in recent years to reflect the current conditions.

• Plan your trip and inform others about the route you have selected.

• Adapt the planned routes according to ability and conditions.

• Pay attention to the weather and the avalanche warnings.

• Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.

• Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others.

• Choose safe routes. Recognize avalanche terrain and unsafe ice.

• Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are.

• Don’t be ashamed to turn around.

• Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary.

Harsh weather

Lofoten, located north of the Arctic Circle and far out at sea, is notorious for its unpredictable weather. While sunny skies and warm temperatures are not uncommon during the summer months, they can quickly give way to fog, wind, and rain. Even in the height of summer, temperatures can drop to single digits. It's worth noting that weather conditions can vary greatly within a small area.

If you plan to tackle challenging hikes in Lofoten, it's important to avoid attempting them in fog or rain, as this can make the terrain slippery and difficult to navigate.

On sunny days, it's not unusual to see hikers donning shorts and t-shirts, basking in the warmth. However, the weather can change in a heartbeat, so it's wise to always carry warm clothing in your backpack to protect against unexpected drops in temperature.

Choice of hiking route

Lofoten offers a plethora of hiking options, each providing a unique perspective on the stunning natural surroundings. Before embarking on any hiking trip, it's important to do your research and make informed choices based on your fitness level and experience. Keep in mind that easier hikes can be just as rewarding as the more challenging ones, as Lofoten boasts natural beauty at every turn.

Many of the mountain hikes in Lofoten take place in rugged terrain, and can be quite demanding. These hikes may include sections where you'll need to use your hands to navigate rocky paths, scree, or loose gravel on the mountainsides. Additionally, steep rock faces or cliffs may be encountered near the summit. Be sure to choose a route that's appropriate for your fitness level and experience, and take weather conditions into account.

Unfortunately, there have been instances of fatal accidents resulting from falls during hiking trips in the Lofoten mountains, so please be carefull and make good preparations.

How to dress on a mountain hike:

• Thermal underwear (wool or synthetic fabric). NB: Wool is preferable because it provides insulation even if it gets wet

• Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants

• Thicker intermediate layer (wool or fleece)

• Hat

• Gloves

• Neck warmer/scarf

• Good footwear

• Woollen socks

• Warm jacket filled with down or fibre. NB: Down collapses when it gets wet and loses its insulation properties. Consequently, down is unsuitable in rainy or humid environments.

• Shorts and t-shirt if it’s warm

What to carry in your backpack?

• Sunglasses and sunscreen  

• Caps

• First aid kit 

• Headlamp (not necessary in mid-summer when the Midnight Sun arranges the lighting!)

• Knife/multi-tool

• Gaffer tape and sports tape

• Food and drink

• Toilet paper

• Seating pad 

• Fully charged mobile phone and maybe an emergency charger. NB: There is not mobile coverage everywhere, so don’t have blind faith in your mobile phone for navigation or emergencies.

• Map and compass

• Many people prefer digital maps on their mobile phone. Norgeskart and ut.no have an excellent map function. Remember that there is not always mobile coverage. Download relevant maps.

• Wind sack (to use in the event of an accident or during a break)

SOS

If you require help in the event of an accident, call the emergency number 112.

The Search and Rescue service is free in Norway. In Lofoten, there is a local branch of the Red Cross as well as a voluntary alpine rescue group that assists if accidents occur in demanding mountain terrain.

The nearest helicopter base is Bodø.

Lofoten has one hospital, which is situated in Gravdal near Leknes.

There is an out-of-hours medical service in Svolvær and Gravdal.