Prestvannet: is the lake walk worth doing?

The short answer

Why visit Prestvannet?

Go if you want a simple nature walk close to town. The circuit lets you see the lake and surrounding woodland without committing to a mountain hike. The municipality describes a path all the way around, with benches and a fire place nearby.

If you would rather spend your outdoor time beside the sea, choose Telegrafbukta for a beach and coastal trail. Prestvannet is the better fit for a lake loop and summer birdwatching.

Plan the circuit

Walking around Prestvannet

Visit Tromsø describes the circuit as about 1.7 km. It is a useful short walk on its own, or you can continue into Tromsøya’s wider trail network. Stop at the viewpoints rather than rushing a lap: the view shifts between water, woodland and the mountains beyond the island.

The municipality says the paths around the lake have gravel or asphalt surfaces. Most of the route is relatively level, though some stretches are steeper than a 1:12 gradient. If step-free access matters, check the route on the day and choose a shorter section if necessary.

Summer at the lake

Birdwatching without disturbing the reserve

Prestvannet is a protected landscape area with rich birdlife in summer. Keep to the prepared paths and give birds space, especially when they are nesting. Bring binoculars if watching wildlife is the main reason for your visit.

The municipality asks visitors not to feed the birds and says camping is not allowed in the protected area. There are benches for a picnic break; take your rubbish with you and leave the shore undisturbed.

Winter changes the ground

Walking and skating at Prestvannet in winter

Visit Tromsø recommends the path around the lake as an easy winter walk and notes that the area connects to cross-country ski trails. Snow and ice can make the path slower than the summer circuit, so wear footwear suited to the conditions and check the weather before setting out.

Some winters, part of the frozen lake is prepared for skating. Never assume that the ice is safe. Tromsø municipality checks ice thickness and posts information about the current season, but says all travel on the ice is at your own risk. Methane bubbles can make the ice uneven, and the outlet at the north end may remain thin throughout winter.

After dark

Can you see the northern lights at Prestvannet?

Sometimes. Visit Tromsø names Prestvannet among the darker places on Tromsøya where the aurora may be visible on a clear night. It is a convenient option if you want to try from within the city, but cloud, aurora activity and nearby light affect the result. There is no guaranteed sighting.

Plan the return journey before you go, carry a light and stay on the paths. You do not need to walk onto frozen water to look at the sky. If your priority is to improve your chances on a cloudy city evening, compare the conditions and guided options in our northern lights guide.

Practical access

How to get to Prestvannet

The lake sits on the higher part of Tromsøya. Visit Tromsø describes the walk from the city centre as roughly 30 minutes uphill. You can also take a local bus; check the best stop and the return departure for your date in Svipper’s journey planner.

The municipality lists parking near the Sámi kindergarten and Bymyra, plus spaces along Langnesvegen. If you are visiting after dark, look at the route back before leaving the centre. Do not rely on the lake having staffed facilities or a café.

Common questions

Prestvannet FAQ