Best Ski Resorts in Norway – A Unique Guide for Every Type of Skier
Norway is a paradise for skiers, offering long winter seasons, breathtaking fjord views, and high-quality snow conditions. With over 200 ski resorts, Norway caters to all levels, from beginners to extreme off-piste adventurers. Plus, thanks to its northern latitude, Norway offers the unique experience of skiing under the Northern Lights.
Overview of Skiing in Norway
Total Ski Resorts: Over 200
Longest Ski Season: Narvik (November – May)
Largest Ski Resort: Trysil (71 km of slopes)
Best for Powder: Myrkdalen (Snowiest resort in Norway)
Best for Night Skiing: Oslo Winter Park
Best for Family Skiing: Hafjell
Best for Off-Piste & Freeriding: Stranda
Most Accessible from Oslo: Norefjell (90 min drive)
When to Visit
November – May: Main ski season.
December – February: Best powder conditions.
March – April: Longer daylight hours, great for spring skiing.
Avoid: School holidays (mid-February) for fewer crowds.
How to Get to Norway’s Best Ski Resorts
Unique Norway Ski Resort Ratings
We’ve developed a custom rating system to help you choose the best resort based on different criteria:
Category | Resort | Rating (1-5) |
Best for Beginners | Trysil | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best for Families | Hafjell | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best for Advanced Skiers | Stranda | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best for Snowboarders | Hemsedal | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best for Off-Piste & Freeriding | Narvik | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best for Seniors | Kvitfjell | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best for Night Skiing | Oslo Winter Park | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best Ski Resorts for Beginners
Kvitfjell, with its quiet slopes and excellent grooming, is perfect for those who want to learn without the crowds.
Best Beginner Run: Green slopes near the Varden area.
Geilo offers calm, easy slopes and great rental facilities, making it one of Norway’s best learning destinations.
Pro Tip: Book a private lesson for faster progress.
Best Ski Resorts for Families
Hafjell is designed for families, featuring fun ski parks, easy runs, and child-friendly hotels.
Best Family Activity: The Troll Ski Forest, an adventure park for kids.
Instructor Quote: “Kids love Hafjell’s Troll Ski Forest. It makes skiing exciting for them!” – Marta, 29, Poland.
Beitostølen has short lift lines, easy slopes, and great non-ski activities.
Best Non-Ski Activity: Dog sledding and reindeer safaris.
Best Resorts for Advanced Skiers & Freeriders
Stranda is known for its deep powder, steep couloirs, and breathtaking fjord views.
Top Challenge: Off-piste skiing in Blådalen.
Pro Tip: Hire a local guide for the best backcountry experience.
Narvik’s rugged terrain and long vertical drops make it one of the best choices for expert skiers.
Best Feature: Skiing under the Aurora Borealis.
Best Ski Resorts for Snowboarders
Hemsedal is a freestyle paradise with big jumps, rails, and a halfpipe.
Best Snowboarding Park: Hemsedal Snow Park.
Voss offers a mix of natural terrain and well-designed freestyle zones.
Pro Tip: Take the gondola for access to hidden powder stashes.
Best Luxury Ski Resorts
Myrkdalen offers high-end lodges, private spa facilities, and Michelin-starred dining.
Luxury Highlight: Stay at Myrkdalen Hotel, a ski-in, ski-out resort with top-tier service.
Norefjell is a luxury escape just 90 minutes from the capital.
Best Feature: The Norefjell Ski & Spa resort.
Best Ski Resorts for Seniors
Kvitfjell is perfect for seniors due to well-groomed trails, slower-paced skiing, and cozy lodges.
Senior-Friendly Feature: Heated chairlifts and accessible slopes.
Beitostølen has gentle slopes and fantastic wellness centers.
Best Senior Activity: Snowshoeing through Valdres National Park.
Final Thoughts
Norway offers some of the most stunning ski experiences in the world, from the deep powder of Stranda to the luxurious slopes of Myrkdalen. Whether you’re an adventurous freerider, a beginner skier, or a family looking for a winter getaway, Norway has something for everyone. So grab your skis and experience the magic of Norway’s slopes!