Early hiking

If you’re eager to start the hiking season on foot, South Senja — with its early spring — is the place to begin. Along the coast facing south and west, exposed, south‑facing peaks and the shoreline become snow‑free first — perfect for anyone who wants an early start.

Here are our suggestions for routes and peaks that are among the first to open when spring arrives, yet remain beautiful throughout the entire season.

Dronningruta from Hofsøy to Stangnes (Ryvoll)

This route at the tip of the Stonglandet peninsula is well suited for families and for anyone who prefers gentle terrain. Snow disappears here several weeks earlier than in most other parts of Senja. Dronningruta from Hofsøy to Stangnes via Stongodden is therefore one of the very first hikes to become snow‑free in spring.

The trail follows the shoreline for most of the way and is dry early in the season. Most people park at the Mid‑Troms Museum in Hofsøy and follow a tractor road at the start, before the path turns toward the sea and continues on to Ryvoll. If you’re hiking with small children, you’ll reach a beach and picnic spot after only a short walk. Dronningruta is easy to walk, with small rock slabs, beaches and simple terrain almost the entire way — perfect for hikers of all ages. Information boards at the trailhead share interesting facts about the area from the Viking Age onward. Along the route you’ll enjoy beautiful views toward Andørja, Grytøya and Hinnøya.

From Ryvoll, a circular route leads back toward Hofsøy, slightly further inland on the peninsula. Parts of this loop can be wet, but you’ll pass several of the characteristic low coastal pines that are protected in the nature reserve. You can also return the same way — it’s just as scenic in the opposite direction.

The route is about 8 km one way, and slightly shorter if you return via the inland path. You can also park a car at each end if you prefer to walk it as an A–B route.

Leirpollfjellet – 249 m

This is a wonderful family hike on the Stonglandet peninsula, especially good for anyone who wants an easy walk without steep climbs. The trail is well‑marked and easy to follow. Early on, you’ll get views of the island landscape surrounding Senja, and there are nice picnic spots along the way. From the summit you’ll enjoy views over Hofsøybotn and Lemingvær, the larger peaks to the north on Senja, and on clear days you can see all the way to Vesterålen. With only 2 km from the trailhead, this is manageable for most people and a lovely start to the snow‑free season.

⭐ Favourite early‑season peaks

Strytind – 413 mas

Strytind lies between Veidmannsfjorden and Grunnfarnes in Søndre Torsken. The trail starts at the end of the road toward Kalfarnes. From here, follow a clear path west along the shoreline for about one kilometre before the ascent begins.

When the trail turns northwest, the ridge and steady climb toward the summit start. At this point, you’re already halfway. If you hike in the evening, you’ll have the sun with you all the way up. This area becomes snow‑free early — often around Easter — making Strytind one of the best early‑spring peaks on Senja.

From the top you can see Grunnfarnes, Dalfjellet, Høgtinden, Medby, Veidmannsfjorden, Sifjorden and all the way out toward Andøya and Andenes. There are also good chances of seeing the midnight sun. The hike is about 2.5 km and suitable for most people.

Sjursviktinden – 837 mas

Sjursviktinden is located in Sjursvika, just past Skrolsvik on South Senja. The trailhead is easy to find near the end of the road, with a marked path and signage from a small parking area on the left.

The summit becomes snow‑free early and is one of the most popular spring hikes in the area. The trail starts gently before the steepest section begins. The summit can feel a bit exposed, but not frightening — more exciting than intimidating. The path is clear all the way, except for the final stretch through a boulder field.

The hike is about 3 km, and most people spend just over an hour reaching the top. From the summit you can see Senjahesten, Buviktinden, Lonketinden, Flakstadvåg and the distinctive pinnacles of Kvænan. To the west you can see Sandsøya, Bjarkøya, Flatøya and Meløyvær. The view is spectacular — especially in the midnight sun.

Høgtinden – 402 mas & (Little) Breitinden – 662 mas

Høgtinden at Medby is an easy and accessible hike for most people. Do not confuse it with Høgtinden at Grunnfarnes.

Snow lingers here a little longer than on Strytind, but the route still becomes suitable for hiking boots relatively early. Early in the season, it may be wise to bring snowshoes in your pack. The trail starts at the Youth House in Medby, following a steep tractor road up to Rødbergvatnet, before a marked path leads you to the summit.

From Høgtinden you look straight down into Veidmannsfjorden. If you want a longer hike, you can continue up to (Little) Breitinden (662 m) — the top of the ridge behind you when standing on Høgtinden. From here you’ll have views toward Osterfjorden, Torsken and much of South Senja. On clear days, this extension is absolutely worth it.

Lonketinden – 848 mas

Lonketinden is one of the highest peaks on South Senja and a favourite both in winter and summer. The summit offers a fantastic 360° panorama.

The trail starts at Finnelva, just after the village of Å. A gravel road leads to a small dam and a shed where you can park. From here, follow the marked trail toward the summit.

Early in spring, this is often a combination hike: 2/3 on snowshoes – 1/3 on hiking boots. Up to Lonketuva, snowshoes are usually needed, while the ridge toward the summit often becomes snow‑free early. At the very top, some cornices may remain.

The view is vast: From Lonketuva you can already see Lemmingsvær, Sandsøya and Andørja. From the summit you can see most of Senja’s highest peaks. The hike can be done year‑round, but many prefer it in spring or summer. In summer, the trail is easy to follow, though the marshes can be wet — waterproof shoes are recommended.

This is a demanding hike that requires some experience, but the reward is great.

⭐ Find inspiring routes and make good choices

The Senja region offers a wide variety of beautiful hikes for all ages and all seasons. South Senja, the southwest through Kaperdalen, the inner side of the island and the mainland all have fewer visitors — perfect if you want peaceful routes and the feeling of having nature to yourself. If you prefer less demanding hikes, there are many options.

The most famous peaks offer spectacular views but also attract more visitors, especially in high season. For inspiration, we recommend the Turboka for Senja & Midt‑Troms (sold at local shops and accomodations), and there are many good apps. UT.no (from DNT) lists child‑friendly “Turboturer”, and Fjelltoppjakten is another useful app. Ask your local host or one of our Infopoints for tips — weather and conditions always influence which routes are best.

Take care of your safety: check the weather on Yr.no and use Varsom.no if you plan routes in exposed areas, summer or winter. Plan for the unexpected and pack a light backpack even for short hikes.

Follow nature guidelines — and enjoy our beautiful region.