Trollsteinen

Trollsteinen rises to around 850 metres directly south of Longyearbyen, and the route to it crosses the Larsbreen glacier before climbing scree to a ridge and a summit cairn, taking six to eight hours return. It is the standard longer walk from the town. From the top Longyearbyen, Adventdalen, Isfjorden and the glaciers behind are all laid out, and on a clear day the view runs a long way north.

What you actually see

• The Larsbreen crossing - the glacier the route goes over on the way up.
• The summit view - Longyearbyen, Adventdalen and Isfjorden from above.
• The scree climb - the loose ground on the upper section.
• The proximity - a real mountain walk starting from the town itself.

When to go

July to September is the walking season once the snow has gone. Snow lingers on the upper slopes into July. Guided walks run through the summer.

Honest expectations

The route crosses a glacier and polar bear protection is required, so it is done with a guide in practice. The scree is loose and the descent is hard on knees. Weather changes fast.

Nearby

Longyearbyen is below, and Adventdalen is east.