Mountain Hiking in Sweden

- it’s for everybody not just for survivalists and hardcore connoisseurs.  

  • Hiking may be for everyone but sleeping in a tent is not; STF, the Swedish Toursit Association has developed a network of alpine facilities spread along the trails over large portions of the mountain range. The ten mountain stations serve as hubs where, in addition to finding accommodations, you will have a chance to take part in courses and guided tours, dine at a restaurant, shop at a store and make use of other services. The 43 alpine huts offer simpler accommodation and are situated along the trails, spaced about one day’s journey from each other. These alpine facilities opens the awe-inspiring mountain region for a much wider range of visitors. Photo: Emil Sergel

  • Ask anyone who’s tried it and they will most likely agree: Hiking in what is generally considered Europe’s last wilderness is a unique adventure, an unforgettable experience and balm for the modern soul. Hiking in the mountainous region of Scandinavia’s north can be anything from a week’s expedition to a simple daily walk. The region in mid-Sweden is accessible from any of the major cities by night train or an hour and a half by air. The wilderness in Lapland will take a bit longer to get to, but once you’re smitten by the experience, getting there will be a breeze. Where to go and what to see: Hiking trails in Sweden

  • Dinner at Saltoluokta mountain lodge—not your usual hiking experience for sure. Photo: Patrik Boström

  • To hike is to discover and become part of vast expanses, dramatic mountain formations and fantastic views. And what’s best of all? After you’ve acquired the equipment everything else is free.
    Getting started—Hiking is no more difficult than walking. Begin on easier trails with cabins so you don’t have to carry too much equipment. Gradually increase your packing as you gain experience. Most mountain stations offer guides and courses, both of which are a great help. Svenska Turistföreningen (The Swedish Tourist Association) has all the answers to your questions, whether they concern equipment or trails. Check out: www.svenskaturistforeningen.se

  • Kebnekaise mountain lodge, elev 690 m, located at the base of Mount Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain range. Photo: Markus Alatalo

  • Who’s it for?
    Since mountain hiking varies in both distance and difficulty, it’s easy to find solutions for families with children and the experienced enthusiast.
    We earlier covered how the mountainous region of Sweden's north is no longer just for survivalists and hardcore connoisseurs. The allure of the mountains

  • Sylmassivet in northern Jämtland, not too far north of Sweden’s center offers a magnificent mountain range and unlimited hiking trails. Photo: David Erixon

  • Equipment
    There’s a difference in the equipment you really need and the equipment you really buy. You can dole out a lot of money on equipment, but the most important pieces are clothes that will keep you warm and dry and a pair of good shoes. If you want to hike longer distances with packing, it may be worth it to invest in a pair of high-top hiking boots which offer more support. A backpack that is comfortable is also important; make sure it fits your height and shape. Then of course you can buy all kinds of stuff from expensive camp kitchens to cutlery made of lightweight titanium. Buy according to need, not want.
    Speaking of equipment, two Swedish hiking enthusiasts, Tryggve Tirén and Sofi Andersson, recently went on a long mountain expedition where nothing may cost over 100 SEK ($15).

  • The 270 miles of Kungsleden are clearly marked. Photo: David Erixon

  • Why were you doing this?
    “The outdoor business is extremely normative in every way, so this is our way to break free from that or to at least question it. We are ourselves gadget junkies, but that doesn’t rhyme very well with also being conscious and critical of production processes, climate change, and the general hysteria around consumption and false needs. It’s time we all begin to think differently and in new ways. Another factor is that the most expensive, the coolest and supposedly best products around aren’t really up to standard.”

  • Photo: Markus Alatalo

  • Won’t things break?
    “Sure, some of the things break, but new stuff breaks, too. Just because something breaks doesn’t mean it can’t be used. The challenge lies in being inventive and creative even in those situations. To repair is something that’s underrated!”

  • More information
    Svenska Turistföreningen, STF, the Swedish Tourist Association has a lot of information about mountain hiking and mountain stations. Check out their web page: www.svenskaturistforeningen.se/en

  • Maps always come in handy. They are usually available at bookstores or in shops selling outdoor equipment. You can also order them at www.resebokhandeln.se

  • You might also like to look up www.tilltopps.com, an enthusiastic webpage with travel stories, tips and links and everything about hiking in Norway and Sweden.

  • Researched by Emil Sergel