Kungsleden Trail Abisko - Nikkaluokta: Our favorite part

The Kungsleden Trail stretches a mighty 430 kilometers, running from Abisko in the north to Hemavan in the south, cutting straight through the heart of Swedish Lapland. Originally mapped out in the late 19th century, this trail wasn’t just a random idea—it was a vision to create a hiking route through some of the most striking landscapes Sweden has to offer. And boy, did they succeed. From shimmering lakes and dense forests to jagged mountains and expansive glacial valleys, the Kungsleden is the ultimate showcase of nature’s finest.

One of the most popular sections, and one we highly recommend, is the 108-kilometer stretch from Abisko to Nikkaluokta. This part offers a perfect introduction to the wild beauty of Swedish Lapland. You’ll hike along valley floors, cross rivers, and weave through pockets of birch forests, all while breathing in air that feels cleaner than anything you’ve experienced before. What’s more, simple mountain huts are scattered along the way, offering not just shelter, but also a chance to meet fellow hikers, swap stories, and sip on a cup of hot tea after a long day on the trail.

Kungsleden is divided into five sections, each offering a unique experience of Sweden’s natural landscapes:

• Abisko to Nikkaluokta: Known for its scenic views and accessible terrain, this section is a great introduction to the northern wilderness.
• Kebnekaise to Saltoluokta: Featuring open plains and peaceful lakes, this section offers more remote, rugged beauty.
• Saltoluokta to Kvikkjokk: This part of the trail is quiet and remote, perfect for those seeking solitude in the wilderness.
• Kvikkjokk to Ammarnäs: Long and remote, this section takes you deeper into Sweden’s wild landscapes, with fewer hikers and more wildlife.
• Ammarnäs to Hemavan: A gentler conclusion to the trail, featuring rolling hills, forests, and rivers.

Each section of the Kungsleden showcases a different side of Sweden's natural beauty, offering trekkers a varied and engaging journey through changing environments. There is however one big BUT: It’s not very easy to secure accommodation on every stage. Sometimes you can really only camp.

The Kungsleden Trail is ideal for hikers of all levels, from seasoned trekkers to those embarking on their first multi-day adventure. With well-marked paths and huts conveniently placed along the route, it offers the perfect blend of comfort and exploration. The manageable distances between huts make it approachable for beginners, while the diverse terrain—ranging from gentle valleys to rocky mountain passes—keeps it engaging for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.

For many, the Kungsleden is more than just a physical journey; it’s an opportunity to escape the everyday hustle and reconnect with nature. As you wind through some of Sweden’s most pristine landscapes, the trail offers moments of peace, reflection, and a renewed appreciation for the outdoors. And after a long day on the trail? There’s nothing better than settling into a mountain hut, kicking off your boots, and enjoying a well-earned meal—maybe even a cold beer if you’ve packed smart. Because let’s be honest: a beer tastes best after 20 kilometers of hiking.

The ideal time to hike Kungsleden is from mid-June to early September. During this period, the weather is more stable, and the long daylight hours of the Arctic summer make it easier to cover ground each day. The snow has melted, and the landscape is at its most vibrant, with green valleys and plenty of wildlife. It's also the busiest time on the trail, so you'll meet more fellow hikers and find a lively atmosphere at the huts.

If you're after a quieter experience, early September is a great option. The trail becomes less crowded, and the changing colors of autumn bring a different beauty to the landscape. The days are shorter and the temperatures cooler, especially in the evenings, so you'll need to be prepared for colder conditions. Whether you choose the height of summer or the start of autumn, both seasons show the Kungsleden at its best.

The huts along the Kungsleden are managed by the Swedish Tourist Association (STF) and offer basic accommodations with sleeping areas and kitchens for self-catering. After a day of hiking, they provide a comfortable place to rest. While they operate on a first-come, first-served basis, booking in advance is a good idea during the busy hiking season to secure your spot.

Note that not always a restaurant on-site. Self-catering is the norm but fortunately most huts have a small shop providing basic ingredients for your next meal. Staying in these huts creates a sense of community on the trail. You’ll meet other trekkers, share meals, and exchange stories from the day’s hike. This shared experience adds a social element to your trek, making it feel more connected and less solitary. It’s a great way to build bonds with fellow hikers while enjoying the remote beauty of Swedish Lapland.

Reaching Abisko to begin your adventure is straightforward, with several convenient transport options. The closest major hub is Kiruna, which has both an airport and a train station connecting it to Sweden’s larger cities, including Stockholm. From Kiruna, you can either take a direct train or bus to Abisko, with the journey taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. The train is especially popular for its scenic route, offering stunning views of the Arctic landscape as you approach the trailhead.

Once you arrive in Abisko, the starting point of the Kungsleden is right next to the Abisko Turiststation, making it easy to hit the trail without any hassle. Stock up on supplies, double-check your gear, and you’re ready to go!

Getting Back From Nikkaluokta

After finishing your hike in Nikkaluokta, you’ll find it just as easy to get back to civilization. Buses run regularly from Nikkaluokta to Kiruna, with the ride taking about 1.5 hours. From Kiruna, you can catch a train, bus, or flight to your next destination, whether that’s Stockholm or beyond.

Pro tip: If you’re craving a celebratory treat after completing the trek, Nikkaluokta Sarri, a restaurant near the trail's end, serves hot food and reindeer dishes—perfect for recharging. There’s even a little shop where you can grab a cold beer to toast your achievement.

With these smooth transport connections at both ends of the trail, planning your Kungsleden adventure is easy. You’ll spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying Lapland’s wilderness—as it should be!

A hut-to-hut tour in Sweden does not have to be expensive at all. Huts are usually simple, but offer everything you need to recharge your mental and physical batteries for the next hiking day(s). For 5 days in the Trollheim area you can count on about 90 EUR per hiking day. This includes route description, navigation aid, your accommodation in a log cabin and half board. For hut tours in general, we then recommend bringing 40 to 60 EUR (450 - 750 SEK) pocket money. This is for lunch and your drinks. Most of our pocket money usually goes to that ice cold drink in the next hut!