Best Hiking Routes in Sweden
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Loading... - Cheryl Gilbert
- 07 Sep 2022
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Check out our selection of the best hiking routes in Sweden.
Why is Sweden Great for Hiking?
Sweden is a great place to hike both because of its natural features and because of its location in northern Europe. Here’s why:
Sweden has some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world—and it may surprise you how many there are. With thousands of miles of hiking paths and trails, you can find the perfect experience for you within easy driving distance from wherever you’re located in this long country.
No matter if your preferences lean more toward solitude or socialization, gentle inclines or challenging climbs, or forested areas or open spaces, there’s a trail for you. And generally speaking, all of them will provide gorgeous views that leave an impression on every visitor.
Sweden is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Europe—not just geographically but also by population density. This means whether you prefer hiking alone or with others, there will be plenty of opportunities to find a peaceful experience without encountering too many other people along the way.
The fjäll (or fell) are mountains located above the tree line that offer stunning panoramic views across much of Scandinavia.
Characteristic landscapes like Trollkyrka National Park feature rounded granite outcroppings and uplifted rock beds characteristic to Sweden’s geologic history. While these areas are very different from each other cosmetically, they have been formed by similar tectonic processes over millions (and even billions!) of years!
Best Hiking Routes in Sweden
Find your next adventure.
The Kungsleden Route
Kungsleden, or The Royal Trail, is the most popular hiking route for a very good reason.
Hikers are treated to over 440 km of pristine woods and mountains stretching through northern Sweden all the way from Abisko in the north to Hemavan in the south.
It’s a national park that also happens to be part of the European E1 long-distance footpath.
Even with this huge expanse of spectacular nature, you’re never far away from civilization—you can find accommodations at strategically placed huts operated by STF every day or two along your hike.
The best time for hiking is between June and September, when all huts are open and you can be sure of avoiding bad weather (although if you want to brave it out through snowier conditions there are summertime options too).
As far as difficulty goes, Kungsleden has options suitable for everyone. The northern half—the easiest section—can even be enjoyed by children, with its gentle walking paths and well-tended cabins serving hearty meals every evening.
Once you hit Saltoluokta Fjällstation (located around midway between Abisko and Hemavan) things get a little rockier; although still accessible even for new hikers there’s no more hut accommodation available here so you’ll have to go fully self-sufficient with camping gear or continue on using wilderness cabins owned by local residents (booking these is absolutely essential).
If that sounds like too much effort then there’s always the option of hiring tour guides who will take care of all your equipment needs! Read More…
