Vålådalen Trail with Accommodation Before and After

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!