This adventure provides you with a taste of most types of nature found in Finnmark. We roam into the edge of the Finnmarksvidda mountain plateau and experience the valleys of Tverrelvdalen and Altadalen, as well as the coast when you are safely back in Alta. However, for most people the majestic Alta Canyon is the highlight of this adventure and provides lasting memories.
The canoeing trip
We start by driving up the valley of Tverrelvdalen past the slate quarries at Stilla and Nullpunktet – where the historic demonstrations against the construction of the hydroelectric power plant took place – then up to Sautso. We start paddling 2 km down river from the dam and you will soon gain your first experience of northern Europe’s largest canyon.
Few people venture into the Alta Canyon, primarily because it’s so difficult to get there. You will experience incredible nature, eagles, salmon, various duck species and long river boats in perfect union! If we’re lucky, we can add a moose and fox as well!
Just below the Alta Canyon, we make a stop to gather around the campfire and enjoy a delicious lunch while discussing the first part of our adventure.
The trip ends at Sorrisniva or Bollo, roughly 25 km further down river. We expect to be back at GLØD about 18.00 (6pm).
Nature and animal life
The upper reaches of the Alta River take us through Alta Canyon, a rare natural gem best enjoyed from a silently flowing canoe. Few people make it up here, apart from those who can fish here. Further down the valley, the landscape is dominated by forest, cultural and agricultural areas. Paddling in a canoe provides a close-up encounter with the animal life, such as white-tailed sea eagles, various duck species and, if you’re lucky, the king of the forest, the moose.
History
The Alta River (or Altaelva as it’s known in Norwegian) represents a central part of the history of Alta and forms an important part of the identity of locals of Alta. During the trip, your guide will tell you about the history of the river, organisation of fishing rights, the damming of the river and construction of the hydroelectric power plant and the subsequent years.
Previous canoeing experience
As the river is relatively calm, no previous paddling experience is required. Training will be given before we set off. All participants use life jackets so, if we are unlucky enough to capsize, this will be undramatic. The temperature in the water is often up to 16 °C in the summer and the water level is relatively low. However, the upper reaches of the river are somewhat “freer”, so it’s necessary to know where to paddle to reduce the risk of overturning and accidents. Our guides know the area well, so they know where to paddle!