> Hike in the beautiful forests of the Vålådalen nature reserve
> Enjoy the beautiful reindeer herding in the distance
> Stay at Vålådalen Fjällstation before and after hiking
This 6-day round trip in Sweden's Vålådalen nature reserve is perfect for nature lovers looking for an authentic experience. Starting and finishing in Vålådalen, the route takes you through quiet valleys between pine and mountain birch forests. In some places, glacial activity has carved beautiful features into the landscape, with ridges, plateaus and gorges creating magical settings.
At the end of each day, a welcoming cabin awaits where you can relax and share stories with other trekkers. As a responsible guest, please remember to follow the cabin rules and your cleaning duties.
From wooded trails to open mountain ridges, the Vålådalen Trail is ideal for those who want to experience the raw beauty of Sweden. The well-marked trails ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for adventurous walkers. Remember that summer trails are marked with dots (not lines) and bring mosquito repellent!
Today's route begins with a gentle ascent southwards through the beautiful Vålådalen valley, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Shortly after the start, you cross an impressive suspension bridge over the Vålån river. You'll also pass through green, lush forests and open countryside, making for a peaceful and scenic start to your adventure.
The trail is well signposted, suitable for all abilities and a great introduction to the natural beauty of the area. At Lunndörren you'll find a welcoming hut where you can relax and spend the night before continuing your adventure in the morning.
The second day of this hike is probably the toughest and longest, you will walk from Lunndörren to Vålåstugan, your cabin for the night. The trail between the cabins crosses easy terrain close to the tree line, with ancient forests to the north and the distinctive valleys of Gråsjöfjället to the south. The adventure begins with a stretch across wetlands towards the Finnångeltjärnarna ponds and the Lunndörr river. A steep climb then takes you up the slopes of Trondfjället and across the Tronnan stream, which flows into Vålån.
Halfway through the stage there is a wonderful short ridge walk, surrounded by green fields and young trees, with spectacular mountain views in the background. The trail continues along the Vålån valley, climbing slightly in notably rocky terrain just before you reach the Vålåstugan cabin. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings before dinner and your overnight stay at the cabin.
Note: If the water level is high in some areas, you may have to wade some of the way.
Today the landscape changes from flat, open mountains and high moors to birch forests below the beautiful Lill-Stensdalsfjället. The first 9-10 kilometres are just above the tree line, a pleasant meander that sets the pace for the day. Then you turn around Vålåvalen, followed by a relatively flat stretch along Kroktjärnarna and wetlands. After Smällhögsskaftet the terrain becomes more varied, with wonderful views and opportunities to enjoy the surroundings, rest or take photographs. Along the way you can explore old mine shafts on the slopes of Gruvsmällen.
At the end of the day you arrive at Stensdalen, a traditional cabin where you can relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and rest before continuing your journey the following day.
Note: There are a number of challenging stream crossings along the way which can be difficult to wade, especially when the water level is high. It may be necessary to divert upstream to find a safer crossing. For example, Tvärån in Låtedalen, where the water level drops after the tributaries, or Stensån near Stensdalen hut. In the latter case, if you cannot cross the river, try heading west where there is a bridge near the cabin.
This last stage takes you back to your starting point in Vålådalen and completes the loop. The trail begins in mountain birch forest with occasional open areas and swampy stretches. Shortly after leaving the cabin, in a lower area between two slopes, you cross a beautiful and sturdy wooden bridge over the Tvärån river. This is the highest point on the trail, with views over the wooded basin of Vålådalen and the surrounding mountains to the south. As you start your descent, you'll find several plateaus with 360° panoramic views to captivate you one last time.
Then the path splits and you should take the one towards Stensån and Vålån. A swim in Stensån on the way will refresh you! Then a long and easy descent, mostly flat, takes you past the remains of a härbre from a Sami settlement that was abandoned in the 1930s and Gösta Olander's timeline (a sports official and filmmaker associated with Vålådalen's tourist and sporting success). Continue your walk towards Vålådalen, a special and scenic end to this unforgettable adventure in Sweden.
After checkout and depending on your travel plans, you can either return to the airport or continue exploring the beautiful Swedish countryside. We wish you a safe journey and hope to see you again for another adventure!
