Best of Swedish Nature
The Best of Swedish Nature: National Parks, Hiking Trails & Wild Lakes
Sweden is a sanctuary for nature lovers, a land of vast boreal forests, mirror-like lakes, and untouched wilderness that stretches endlessly across its northern frontier. From the glacier-fed valleys of Sarek to the serene lakes of Dalsland, Sweden’s natural treasures offer travelers a peaceful escape and a thrilling adventure rolled into one. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a paddler, a birdwatcher, or simply someone who wants to breathe in the crisp, pine-scented air, the Swedish outdoors never disappoints.
Sweden’s National Parks: A Model of Conservation and Beauty
Sweden was the first country in Europe to establish national parks, starting in 1909. Today, it boasts 30 national parks that span alpine mountains, deep forests, wetland reserves, and rugged coastlines. These parks are meticulously protected and beautifully maintained, offering a world-class experience for eco-conscious travelers.
Abisko National Park – Aurora and Alpine Landscapes
Located north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park is famed for its accessibility to the Northern Lights and as the starting point of the iconic Kungsleden Trail. The park offers staggering views of Lapporten, a U-shaped valley between two mountains, and is rich in Arctic flora and fauna.
Highlights:
- Aurora Sky Station (best viewed between September–March)
- Hiking in midnight sun during summer
- Canyon walks and alpine meadows
- Reindeer sightings and Sami culture tours
Sarek National Park – Sweden’s Last True Wilderness
Often called Europe’s last untouched wilderness, Sarek National Park is a rugged expanse of glaciers, peaks, and valleys. There are no marked trails, no huts, and no roads, making it ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude and raw beauty.
Highlights:
- Over 100 glaciers and 200 peaks
- River delta of Rapa Valley (Rapadalen)
- Spotting moose, lynx, and golden eagles
- Guided expeditions available for safety
Fulufjallet National Park – Home of the Oldest Tree
Fulufjallet is home to Old Tjikko, the world’s oldest known living clonal tree (around 9,560 years old!). It also boasts Njupeskar, Sweden’s highest waterfall at 93 meters. The high plateau landscape is dramatic and serene.
Highlights:
- Hike to Njupeskar waterfall
- Visit the ancient spruce
- Ideal for snowshoeing and winter trekking
The Best of Swedish Nature: National Parks, Hiking Trails & Wild Lakes
Sweden’s Best Hiking Trails: Trekking Through Wild Beauty
Sweden is a hiker’s dream. With its extensive network of well-marked trails, free-to-use shelters (vindskydd), and the Right of Public Access (Allemansratten) — which allows you to roam and camp respectfully on most natural lands — you can explore Sweden’s pristine backcountry with a freedom rarely found elsewhere.
Kungsleden – The “King’s Trail” of the North
The Kungsleden (King’s Trail) is Sweden’s most famous long-distance trail, stretching over 440 kilometers between Abisko in the north and Hemavan in the south. The trail takes hikers through Arctic tundra, deep valleys, birch forests, and alongside alpine peaks.
Trail Sections:
- Abisko to Nikkaluokta (most popular, ~110 km)
- STF mountain huts available every 10–20 km
- Hike in summer (June–September) or ski in winter
- Incredible wildflowers and wildlife
Bohusleden – West Coast Forests & Granite Cliffs
Running over 370 km from Gothenburg to the Norwegian border, Bohusleden takes hikers through magical moss-covered forests, lakeside cabins, and ancient Viking ruins. It’s divided into 27 stages for easy planning.
Best For:
- Beginners and section hikers
- Forest and coastal diversity
- Scenic detours like Svartedalen Nature Reserve
Skaneleden – Coastal Trails of Southern Sweden
The Skaneleden Trail covers over 1,300 km across the southern province of Skane. It includes stunning beaches, beech forests, and historical sites.
Top Sections:
- Osterlen coast (rolling hills, sandy beaches)
- Soderasen National Park (gorges and canyons)
- Plenty of campsites and wind shelters
Padjelantaleden – Peaceful Sister of Kungsleden
Less crowded than Kungsleden, Padjelantaleden offers a tranquil hike through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Laponia. It runs for 140 km between Kvikkjokk and Ritsem.
Why Go:
- Amazing for solitude and photography
- Sami settlements and reindeer herding areas
- Lakes, mountains, and wildflowers in abundance
Sweden’s Wild Lakes: Mirror Worlds of Tranquility
Sweden has over 100,000 lakes, from vast inland seas like Lake Vanern to hidden forest tarns where the only sound is your paddle skimming the surface. Whether you’re into canoeing, fishing, wild swimming, or just soaking in the scenery, Sweden’s lakes offer an intimate connection with nature.
Lake Vanern – Sweden’s Largest Lake
Covering over 5,500 square kilometers, Lake Vanern is the largest lake in the EU and almost feels like an inland sea. It’s a paradise for boating, fishing, and exploring tiny islands.
Highlights:
- Lacko Castle on the lake’s edge
- Kayaking in Djuro Archipelago National Park
- Fishing for zander, pike, and salmon
Lake Vattern – Clear Waters and Cliff Trails
Lake Vattern is known for its crystal-clear water and charming lakeside towns like Granna (home of the red-and-white candy cane). The Omberg Ecopark offers cliffside hiking with stunning views.
Top Activities:
- Hiking the Ostgotaleden trail along the cliffs
- Visiting the fairytale town Vadstena
- Wild swimming in summer
Dalsland Canal and Lakes – Canoe Capital of Sweden
Dalsland, with its intricate network of lakes connected by hand-operated locks and canals, is a dream for paddlers. You can canoe for days, camping on small islands or forest shores.
Why It’s Special:
- “Sweden’s Lake District”
- Minimal boat traffic, ideal for peace
- Canoe rentals and marked water trails
Lake Siljan – A Cultural and Natural Gem
Formed by a meteor impact millions of years ago, Lake Siljan in Dalarna is not only geologically unique, it’s also culturally rich. You’ll find red-painted cottages, folk music, and midsummer festivals along its shore.
Best Time to Visit:
- June for Midsummer
- July–August for swimming and hiking
- Winter for frozen lake views and skiing nearby
Allemansratten – The Right of Public Access
One of the most beautiful aspects of enjoying Swedish nature is the concept of Allemansratten — the Right of Public Access. It allows you to walk, hike, cycle, ski, camp, and forage (like berries and mushrooms) on almost any natural land, as long as you do not disturb or destroy.
What You Can Do:
- Pitch a tent for 1–2 nights in most places
- Pick berries, mushrooms, and wildflowers
- Walk through forests, fields, and along lakes
- Golden Rule: “Don’t disturb, don’t destroy.”
Wildlife in Sweden: Reindeer, Moose & More
Sweden’s wild spaces are home to some incredible animals, many of which you can see in their natural habitats if you’re patient, quiet, and respectful of nature.
Moose (Alg)
Often called the “King of the Forest,” moose are Sweden’s most iconic land mammals. They’re huge (up to 2 meters tall at the shoulder) but surprisingly shy.
Where to Spot Them:
- Forest roads at dawn or dusk
- Moose parks like “Algens Hus” in Bjurholm
- Wild moose safaris in Varmland or Smaland
Reindeer
Mostly found in Swedish Lapland, reindeer are herded by the indigenous Sami people. They roam freely and often cross roads, rivers, and trails.
Tips:
- Drive slowly in Lapland — they’re everywhere
- Visit a Sami village to learn about reindeer culture
- Winter: watch them pull sleighs during tours
Arctic Fox, Lynx & Wolverines
Sweden is also home to rare and elusive species like the arctic fox (fjallrav), lynx, and wolverine. Sarek and Padjelanta offer your best chances, though sightings are rare.
For Birdwatchers:
- Ospreys, cranes, capercaillie, and sea eagles
- Wetlands of Lake Hornborgasjon or Stora Karlso
- Migration seasons: spring and autumn
Outdoor Tips for Exploring Swedish Nature
Whether you’re hiking a long trail or taking a canoe out for a sunset paddle, these tips will help you enjoy the Swedish outdoors safely and respectfully:
Pack for All Seasons
Weather changes fast. Bring layers, waterproofs, and extra socks—even in summer.
Stay on Trails in National Parks
Some parks have sensitive flora and reindeer zones. Stick to paths and marked areas.
Bring a Map or Download Offline GPS
Cell signal is not guaranteed in remote areas. Use apps like Naturkartan or Maps.me.
Carry a Trash Bag
Follow Leave No Trace. Whatever you pack in, pack it out.
Use Fire Responsibly
Campfires are allowed only in designated areas. In dry summer months, they may be banned altogether.
Sleep Under the Stars
Sweden’s vindskydd (wind shelters) and free tenting rights make outdoor sleeping easy.
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