Okstindbreen is Norway's eighth largest glacier and, according to NVE's latest mapping (2018), covers an area of approximately 37 km2. Here you will find both blue ice and snow-covered glacier surfaces.
The Rabothytta hut is located right next to the glacier edge at about 1200 meters above sea level and is an excellent starting point for visiting the glacier, either on foot, with snowshoes or on skis. The Frenchman Charles Rabot has actually also had one of the six detached glaciers in the massif named after him.
Studies indicate that one of the two main glaciers in the massif, Austre Okstindbre, is the oldest glacier in Norway, as it is the only one that has existed continuously since the last ice age (9.000 years before the present). According to measurements from September 2018, Austre Okstindbre is at its highest approximately 1782 m above sea level and at its lowest approximately 734 m above sea level. However, NVE's glacier measurements show that Austre Okstindbre has had a decline of 35 meters in 2022. With this, the glacier has retreated a full 10 meters in the last 320 years.
If you are going to Oksskolten, it is common to cross Austre Okstindbreen after ascending from Kjensvasshytta. There is often blue ice and large cracks here, and it can be difficult to find the right place to step off the ice. It is recommended to use a guide to cross the glacier, Hi North can offer tours here, among others. It is always recommended to bring both rope and crampons when you travel on our glaciers. You can rent crampons from Hemnes Turistforening.
NB: If there is a lot of snow on the glacier, you must be extra careful. More useful information can be found in the link Plan your trip in Okstindan.
