If you are looking for a hike in Northern Norway that is both accessible and rewarding, Brosmetinden is an excellent choice. Located about an hour from Tromsø on the island of Kvaløya, this trail leads to a summit of 516 meters and offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains, fjords, and fishing villages. Despite its moderate altitude, the hike is manageable for most visitors and provides an unforgettable taste of Arctic landscapes.
A Trail for All Levels
The hike to Brosmetinden is roughly two kilometers each way, which makes for a pleasant round trip of under four kilometers. It usually takes between one and two hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you stop to enjoy the scenery. The trail itself is generally considered easy to moderate: the beginning is fairly gentle, while the last section becomes steeper but remains within reach for hikers of different ages and abilities.
One of the most appealing aspects of this trail is how quickly the landscape opens up. By the time you reach around 200 meters, sweeping views begin to appear, and they only improve as you climb higher.
Getting There
The most straightforward way to reach Brosmetinden is by car. From Tromsø, it takes about an hour to drive, with the last stretch turning into a gravel road for around four kilometers before you arrive at a small parking area near the trailhead. Although the road is unpaved, it is usually fine for standard cars.
Public transportation is also possible, though less convenient. Bus number 425 runs from Tromsø to Tromvik, which is near the trail, but it operates infrequently. For those without a car, staying overnight in the area may be necessary.
The drive itself is part of the experience. Along the way, you’ll pass stunning coastlines, sandy beaches such as Grøtfjorden, and traditional fishing villages that are worth a short stop. The journey to the trailhead can easily become a day trip filled with scenic pauses.
My Experience on the Trail
Brosmetinden was one of the first hikes I attempted in Northern Norway, and it turned out to be the perfect introduction. I am not an experienced hiker and usually feel uneasy with heights, but this path felt safe and manageable. A tip worth noting: bring water and snacks from Tromsø, as there are no shops or facilities near the trail. The area is very open, so don’t expect trees for shade or cover either.
The trail began as a pleasant walk, and before long the panoramic views began to reveal themselves. The air was crisp, the sea sparkled below, and each turn in the path seemed to offer a new perspective. By the time we reached the steeper section near the top, I had already forgotten any worries about the climb.
At the summit, we were rewarded with extraordinary 360-degree views. To one side, the sea stretched endlessly, dotted with small islands; to the other, mountains rose sharply, their peaks outlined against the sky. The highest point of Brosmetinden stands at 525 meters, though the accessible hiking path ends just short of that. Still, the vistas are nothing short of spectacular.
When we visited in August, the evening light created a magical atmosphere. Around 6:30 p.m., the sun was still high, casting golden light across the peaks and fjords. Sunset wouldn’t come until late in the evening, and even then, the sky would never grow completely dark. Hiking here in the soft Arctic light felt like being in another world, one where time slowed down and nature took center stage.
Why Brosmetinden is Worth the Effort
What makes Brosmetinden so special is the combination of accessibility and scenery. It doesn’t demand extreme effort or technical skill, yet the views rival those from much more challenging climbs. The trail is uncrowded compared to other popular spots, which adds to its appeal.
Surrounded by dramatic peaks and open seas, Brosmetinden is the kind of place that captures the essence of Northern Norway—raw, vast, and endlessly beautiful. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just beginning to explore the outdoors, this trail is a memorable stop on Kvaløya and a must-see when visiting Tromsø.
