Russian Border Snowshoe Hike

Overview

Available languages

German

English

3 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Explore the intriguing history of the Norwegian-Russian border on this engaging snowshoe hike. Traverse the scenic 3 km loop through the Arctic wilderness, passing historical sites like the old guard tower and the iconic Boris Gleb church. Learn about Cold War tensions and observe modern border crossings while standing just meters from Russia. Perfect for those with moderate fitness levels, this tour welcomes both beginners and seasoned hikers alike, requiring no prior snowshoeing experience.

- Scenic 3.5-hour snowshoe hike from Kirkenes

- Visit historic border markers and learn about local history

- Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior experience necessary

- Includes warm drinks, snacks, and snowshoes with a knowledgeable guide

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

What To Expect

Join us on a guided snowshoe hike through the snowy forests of Northern Norway — all the way to the edge of Russia. We start by fitting you with snowshoes and warm gear (if needed), then head out on a 3 km loop trail through quiet Arctic wilderness. The hike includes a moderate uphill section (about 100 m). Along the way, your guide will share stories of Cold War tensions, spy escapes, and today’s complex relationship between Norway and Russia. You’ll spot the modern border station at Storskog, and gaze across the frozen Pasvik river at the majestic Russian Boris Gleb church — a sacred site that influenced where the border was drawn. The highlight: standing just meters from Russia at the twin border markers. This is as close as you can legally get — and a truly unique place where history, politics, and nature all meet. We’ll also pause for hot drinks and snacks in the snow, with plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos. No snowshoe experience is needed — this tour is suitable for anyone with average fitness who enjoys being outdoors. Important: Travelers from the EU must bring an official ID card, and all international guests need to carry a valid passport.

What‘s Included

Private transportation

Coffee and/or Tea

Snowshoes and necessary equipment

Options

Russian Border Snowshoe Hike

Reviews

5.00

3 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Henrik demonstrated exceptional professionalism, combined with a genuine and good‑hearted nature that is rare to find.
courrielt,,Jan 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had an outstanding experience with Henrik from Kirkenes Tours. He was extremely professional, friendly, and genuinely caring from the very first moment. He replied to our message immediately and offered to pick us up just 45 minutes later so we could join the tour with two other clients. He knew very much what he was talking about it and of course our highlights were to stand 2 feet away from a closed border with Russian and then by the only opened Schengen border with Russia and see what it looked like. It was all icy and white : really beautiful (although freezing). It was our first day in Kirkenes, so we asked him for recommendations about what to do and which other tours to consider. He gave us excellent advice—not only about his own tours, but also about activities offered by other companies in the area, which we truly appreciated. After the tour, he even took the time to drive us around Kirkenes despite the icy roads and freezing temperatures. He stopped in front of every open restaurant (it was Christmas time, so many were closed) and explained the type of food they served along with his personal recommendations. This level of kindness and attention went far beyond what we expected. In addition the next day he even sent us information about an exhibition taking place in the center of Kirkenes about the Sami people (local tribe if I may say it this way) and suggested us to go see it in order to better understand the area. We were deeply impressed by his professionalism, helpfulness, and warm personality. Hendricks made our first day in Kirkenes unforgettable, and we highly recommend Kirkenes Tours. Thierry / España
A Unique Experience
gregmurar2020,,Dec 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Would highly recommend! A multi-layered experience as the 'snowshoeing' through beautiful landscape would have sufficed, but with Henrik's explanation of recent history, we also gained an insight into this incredible area. Do it!!