The Longyear Glacier rises at the head of the valley directly south of Nybyen. From the last houses, a marked path climbs the lateral moraine for a couple of hours to the snout. The route is rough but technically easy in summer; bring sturdy boots and respect the meltwater channels and crevasses.
In winter, the glacier is regularly approached by guided snowmobile or dog-sled trips. Guides also run summer ice-cave excursions onto the neighbouring Larsbreen. Polar bear protection (rifle and trained guide) is required if you go beyond the settlement boundary in any season.