Kungsleden
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Kungsleden ("The King's Trail") is a renowned long-distance hiking trail in northern Sweden, stretching approximately 450 km (280 mi) from Abisko in the north to Hemavan in the south. Established by the Swedish Tourist Association (STF) in the early 20th century, it traverses the heart of Swedish Lapland and passes through part of Sápmi, the region inhabited by the Sámi people. The trail runs through the Laponia area, the largest wilderness region in the European Union.
Understand
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Kungsleden meanders through varied landscapes including alpine tundra, birch forests, expansive valleys, and rugged mountain passes. It crosses four national parks: Abisko, Stora Sjöfallet, Sarek, and Pieljekaise, as well as the vast Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve, one of Europe's largest protected areas. The highest point on the trail is the Tjäktja Pass at 1,150 m (3,770 ft); the treeline is at 600–800 m (2,000–2,600 ft) at this latitude. A popular detour near Sälka leads to Kebnekaise, Sweden's highest mountain.
Many placenames along the trail are Sámi or of Sámi origin. In the north, names in Northern Sámi are common, then follow areas of Lule, Pite and Ume Sámi. Often the names are Swedified. Thus a lake can be called a jávri, jávrre, jávvre, jávrrie or jaure, or sjö.
Prepare
[edit]The Kungsleden's beauty is matched only by the ferocity of its mosquitoes, especially during the summer months. Be prepared for swarms, particularly near water and in the evenings. To avoid becoming a walking buffet, pack strong insect repellent, such as 40% DEET. Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing when possible and consider a mosquito head net for extra comfort during peak biting hours.
The trail itself is mostly a quite narrow footpath, with duckboards at wet stretches. There should be bridges at all rivers, with fording needed only in shoulder season (and perhaps at minor brooks), but you might want to check to be sure.
The trail is above the treeline, i.e. with little shelter against winds, for long stretches. Unlike in some other regions, there is no valley to descend to in inclement weather, so you should be prepared for whatever comes. Luckily, there are often cabins where you can take refuge unless the weather takes you by surprise.
There are free digital maps available. Download them, as you will not have fast data (or even any mobile phone coverage) available at all places. And do not drop the device, have it drenched in rain or a river, have it stop working because of moisture, or have the batteries go flat. A paper map is recommended.
Eat
[edit]While many huts have cooking facilities, most hikers should carry a camping stove. Campfires should not be relied on for cooking; fire bans are common in summer, and local restrictions should always be checked before lighting a fire. There are a few restaurants along the route, mainly at mountain stations and in some villages.
Food can be bought at grocery stores in Ammarnäs and Jäkkvik, at some Sámi camps, and at many huts along the trail — check the STF list of supplies in mountain cabins to see what's available where. The selection is often limited, especially for dried foods and specific dietary needs, and prices at huts and mountain stations are generally higher than in a regular grocery store. Most hikers do not need to carry all their food from the start, but it is worth planning carefully for longer stretches without supplies, particularly between Jäkkvik and Kvikkjokk.
Sending resupply packages ahead is not necessary anywhere along the route; you can buy what you need as you go. It can, however, be a useful way to cut costs and guarantee selection, since food bought locally at huts and mountain stations tends to be pricier and more limited than food you bring yourself. This trade-off is most worth considering at the more remote mountain stations, less so in Ammarnäs and Jäkkvik, where both villages have their own grocery stores and a package is rarely worth the extra planning. See the individual listings below for current parcel addresses and contact details.
Packages to Kvikkjokk Mountain Station and STF Saltoluokta Mountain Station must be sent through Bussgods.
Foraging for berries and mushrooms is allowed in most areas, following the usual precautions.
Fishing
[edit]Fishing by the trail is mostly allowed, but requires paying a fee to get a permit.
Drink
[edit]Plenty of water is available along the trail in most areas. Higher plateaus can be devoid of good sources especially in dry years, so it is worth checking with locals whether conditions are drier than normal. Water is usually safe to drink as long as the water is either moving (streams should be at least half a meter in width, as a rule of thumb), or large or deep enough not to get stagnant. Special care should be taken in lemming years, since dead carcasses may contaminate the water.
Sleep
[edit]
In the north end, between Abisko and Kvikkjokk, there are huts mostly every 10–15 km (6.2–9.3 mi), with a few 20–30 km legs. Farther south, you may have to sleep in lean-to shelters or in your tent – which is a good safeguard also in the north.
Lodging
[edit]Price for a night in a hut is 420 kr for members, and 520 kr for non-members (2024). Children aged 6–15 years pay 210 kr for members and 260 kr for non-members (2024). Children under 6 years stay for free. Shared rooms, outhouse, and cooking facilities are available. Guests are required to bring their own linen or sleeping bag. Household duties (such as firewood chopping and carrying water) are shared by the guests.
The cabins are closed during the off-season, but at least one emergency room and an emergency phone remain accessible.
Camping
[edit]It is possible to stay by the cottages with a tent if one wishes to use the facilities. The price is 200 kr for members and 300 kr for non-members (2024). Children aged 6–15 years pay 140 kr for members and 240 kr for non-members (2024). Day visits are free for children, 40 kr for members, and 80 kr for non-members (2024).
In the south part of the itinerary there are also some normal campsites.
Backcountry
[edit]Allemansrätten allows you to legally camp in most places for free, except within 100 m of a house. At this trail the main exception is in certain protected areas, such as the Abisko National Park. It is also inadvisable to stay close to main reindeer pastures if herds are nearby, since this disturbs a vital economic activity in the area.
Climate
[edit]The most popular time for hiking is from late June to early September, when the trail is largely free of snow. Summer (June-August) brings long days with the midnight sun, particularly in the northern sections, and temperatures typically range from cool to warm. September ushers in vibrant autumn colours and fewer hikers, but also dropping temperatures, shorter days, and the possibility of the first snowfall. Outside of the summer season, the trail is only recommended for experienced adventurers with proper winter equipment due to harsh conditions, including heavy snow and temperatures well below freezing.
Kungsleden's weather is highly changeable. Be prepared for rapid shifts from hot sunshine (potentially 30°C) to thunderstorms. The weather closer to Abisko can drop to around freezing even in late July. Pack clothing suitable for both extremes and choose campsites carefully, considering potential storm hazards.
Get in
[edit]It is most common to start in Abisko (Abisko Turiststation). It is possible to reach Abisko with the night train from Stockholm. With aeroplane it is possible to reach Kiruna from Stockholm and continue with train or bus to Abisko.
Hemavan has an airport with connection to Stockholm. Reaching Stockholm with bus and train is also possible. Lapplandspilen, a direct coach route between Hemavan and Stockholm, has been discontinued.
For those not going to hike all the trail, there are bus connections to Vakkotavare (the bus to Ritsem), Saltoluokta (boat from Kebnats, which has bus from Gällivare via Porjus), Kvikkjokk, Jäkkvik and Ammarnäs. Nikkaluokta, near Kebnekaise, is also a popular starting point although not on Kungsleden by itself; the trail reaches Kungsleden by Singi (the next cabin after Sälka if coming from Abisko).
Helicopters are common in the Kungsleden area, some days it is possible to see more helicopters than people. Two operators are:
Walk
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Abisko - Singi
[edit]The journey to Nikkaluokta can be taken as a detour or excursion, most hikers however, continue to Singi, without walking to Nikkaluokta.
15 kmThe journey begins at STF Abisko Turiststation. A series of wooden boards at the start introduce the major peaks and points of interest along the route. As hikers pass beneath the train tracks, they find themselves immersed in a blend of hiking and quad trails. Once outside the borders of Abisko National Park, camping becomes an option, with a popular campsite nestled in the forest at the park's edge. A comfortable stop awaits at Abiskojaure Mountain Cabin, offering a place to rest before continuing the journey.
- 1 STF Abisko Turiststation. Restaurant, bath, store and grocery store nearby in the town of Abisko
- 2 Vindskydd Nissonjohka. Wind shelter
- 3 STF Abiskojaure Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, large store, bath
21 kmAs the trail winds toward Alesjaure, travellers may opt for a boat crossing, available for 240 kr (2011), to shorten the journey. Along the Dag Hammarskjöldsleden trail, several peaceful meditation spots invite hikers to pause and reflect. Arriving at Alesjaure is a reward in itself. This stunning glacier lake is home to STF Alesjaure Mountain Cabin where visitors can resupply at the store or set up camp just over the bridge, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
- 4 Rádunjárga. Emergency cabin
- 5 STF Alesjaure Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, large store, sauna, bath
13 kmLeaving Alesjaure behind, the trail gently ascends toward Tjäktja. The landscape opens into vast stretches of tundra, offering plenty of camping opportunities along the way. The terrain remains relatively flat, making for a comfortable hike. The Tjäktja hut can be found just before Tjäktja pass, by taking a short side trail westwards.
- 6 STF Tjäktja Mountain Cabin. Kitchen
12 km
Beyond the Tjäktja hut, the trail climbs to its highest point, Tjäktjapasset, at 1,150 m (3,770 ft). Close by is Tjäktjapasset Rastskydd, an emergency shelter for hikers caught out in bad weather. From Abisko to Sälka, Kungsleden coincides with Nordkalottleden, the roughly 800 km trail that begins at Kautokeino in Norway and ends in the south in Sulitjelma, Norway, or alternately Kvikkjokk, Sweden. At Sälka the two trails part ways: Nordkalottleden heads west toward Ritsem, while Kungsleden continues south toward Kvikkjokk. On the far side of the pass, the trail descends into the lush Tjäktjavagge valley to the STF Sälka mountain cabin, which lies at the foot of the descent where two valleys meet.
- 7 Tjäktjapasset Rastskydd. Emergency cabin
- 8 STF Sälka Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, large store, sauna
12 kmSälka's proximity to the towering Sälka peak means hikers can enjoy views of its glacier from afar. The trail from Sälka to Singi is straightforward and remains entirely above the tree line, allowing for expansive views of the mountainous surroundings. The journey ends at STF Singi Mountain cabin. After Singi, an optional side trail leads to Nikkaluokta.
- 9 STF Singi Mountain Cabin. Kitchen
15 km
From Kebnekaise Mountain station, or directly from Singi, you can climb Sweden's highest mountain, Kebnekaise. Although hiking on Kebnekaise is relatively easy in normal circumstances in season, the dangers should not be underestimated. Depending on temperature and snow quality, crampons may or may not be needed to ascend the summit glacier. Slipping on the glacier can easily be fatal (a 300 m drop on the eastern side), and harsh weather can provoke other fatal mistakes. Anybody who cannot judge the risks should join a tour rather than go by themselves. The tours also allow a route that requires proper equipment, with a glacier walk and some climbing.
- 10 STF Kebnekaise Mountain Station. Kitchen, restaurant, small shop
19 kmFrom Kebnekaise Mountain Station, the trail crosses the bridge over Tarfalajåkka, which carries meltwater down from the glaciers in the Tarfala valley, before descending gently through mountain birch forest. The path starts out rocky with sections of boardwalk, gradually giving way to a narrower, tractor-like track as you approach the lake. If you'd rather not walk the whole way, a boat across Ladtjojaure shortens the hike by around 6 km and runs several times a day in season; the jetty rewards you with a great view back over the Kebnekaise massif, along with a small restaurant. From here it's just a short, gently climbing stretch into 11 Nikkaluokta, where a shop and restaurant await.
Singi - Saltoluokta
[edit]After your return from Nikkaluokta along the same path, or having skipped the detour entirely, you continue towards Saltoluokta.
13 kmFrom Singi, the trail follows the Tjäktjajåkka river south through the wide Tjäktjavagge valley, narrowing between the peaks of Stuor Avrrik and Stuor Jierta. After crossing the river on a suspension bridge, the terrain gradually shifts, and hikers descend into mountain birch forest as they approach Kaitumjaure. STF Kaitumjaure Mountain Cabin sits on a hillside overlooking lake Padje Kaitumjaure, an area known for its resident moose.
- 12 STF Kaitumjaure Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, small store
9 kmA short hike leads you up and above the treeline with expansive views and relatively easy walking across the broad Muorki plateau. In clear weather you can see right across to the peaks of Sarek. You then descend steeply to STF Teusajaure Mountain Cabin, situated right next to a waterfall that gives the spot an almost tropical feel. The final crossing of Teusajaure by rowing boat or motorboat, run by the cabin hosts, awaits hikers continuing south.
- 13 STF Teusajaure Mountain Cabin. Sauna, boat 150 kr (2024, member), small store
15 kmAfter Teusajaure, you'll take a short boat ride across the lake. Keep in mind that while the boat operates twice daily, there is only one bus per day from Vakkotavare, so it's essential to catch the morning boat. If you're coming from the south, the boat will arrive in about 15 minutes. To signal the ferry, hoist the flag. Note that service may be cancelled due to weather conditions. Both card and cash payments are accepted. While rowing boats are available, they are not recommended for this stretch.
Upon reaching the other side, the trail ascends above the tree line and leads across a tundra plain before descending alongside a waterfall. The journey then continues toward STF Vakkotavare Mountain Cabin.
- 14 Raststuga Dievssajávri. Emergency cabin
- 15 STF Vakkotavare Mountain Cabin.
30 km
From here you can take a bus to STF Saltoluokta Mountain station, at the stop Kebnats, but bus continues to Gällivare. You are now travelling into Stora Sjöfallet National Park. Saltoluokta provides not only lodging but also a cosy dining experience, complete with sauna facilities and kayak rentals.
- 16 STF Saltoluokta Mountain Station, 982 99 Gällivare. Restaurant, sauna, Wi-Fi, boat 2 km 175 kr (2024, member), accepts resupply packages
Saltoluokta - Kvikkjokk
[edit] 19 kmFrom Saltoluokta, the trail ascends gently toward a vast mountain plateau, where hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The descent toward Sitojaure marks the end of this segment, with lodging available at STF Sitojaure Mountain Cabin.
- 17 Raststuga Autsutjvagge.
- 18 STF Sitojaure Mountain Cabin. Kitchen
10 kmApproaching Aktse, travellers find themselves at the doorstep of Skierffe, a 1,179 m (3,868 ft) cliff renowned for its spectacular view over Rapadalen. Many choose to camp above the tree line before taking the trail that branches toward Skierffe, a detour that requires approximately eight hours for a round-trip hike. For those staying overnight, STF Aktse Mountain Cabin provides an excellent base.
A boat travels between Aktse and the continuation of Kungsleden. The crossing from the south side to Aktse takes about 15 minutes. Southbound travellers should inform the hut warden in advance, while those heading north must hoist a flag at least half an hour before the departure time to request a ride. Cash may be required for payment, and if there is high demand, the first boat of the morning may depart as early as 8:30 AM.
- 19 STF Aktse Mountain Cabin, ☏ +46 70 673 5513 (Anne-Sophie). Kitchen, large store, boat 300 kr (2024)
22 kmThe trail follows the eastern border of Sarek National Park, a vast, roadless wilderness with dramatic peaks and deep valleys. This section feels very remote, but has a surprising number of rest stops. One directly on the other side of the lake, which is popular for hikers hiking this stretch the other way around, as well as a cabin halfway, when you've gained some altitude, making for a great rest stop. After a long day's hike, STF Pårte Mountain Cabin offers a cosy respite.
- 20 Raststuga Laitaure. Emergency cabin
- 21 Jågge Rastskydd. Emergency cabin
- 22 STF Pårte Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, bath
17 km
The final stretch to Kvikkjokk leads hikers through varied landscapes, from dense forests to roaring rapids. Upon arrival, the Kvikkjokk Mountain Station in the small town of Kvikkjokk welcomes weary travellers with a small store, a restaurant, and comfortable lodging, including showers and a washing machine. One of the station's unique features is the "Myggveranda" or "Mosquito Porch," a screened veranda that offers stunning views of the Gamájåhkå rapids, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the wilderness without the company of mosquitoes.
A boat tour departs twice daily from Kvikkjokk, ferrying hikers across the lake to Mallenjarka Rastskydd at the water's edge. Booking is required in advance, and travellers can call Båttrafik i Kvikkjokk to secure a spot. If arriving from the south, expect a 30-minute wait for the ferry.
- 23 Kvikkjokk Mountain Station, Storvägen 19, 962 02 Kvikkjokk. Restaurant, small store, sauna, Wi-Fi, bus, bath, boat 150 kr (2011), accepts resupply packages
- 24 Båttrafik i Kvikkjokk, ☏ +46 73 800 6232 (Helena Adolfsson).
Kvikkjokk - Ammarnäs
[edit] 15 kmThe climb up from the lakeside is steep and can be slippery on the descent. From there, you'll hike through forest that thins out toward the end of this stage, where the trail exits the woods and opens onto sweeping vistas. This stage ends at Tsielekjåkkstugan, an emergency shelter offering the last indoor refuge for quite some distance.
- 25 Mallenjarka Rastskydd. Emergency cabin with a basic phone, surrounded by swamp and prone to heavy mosquito activity in summer.
- 26 Tsielekjåkkstugan. Emergency cabin
19 kmThe trail begins with an easy hike over the treeless expanse of Björkalfjället, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, before passing close by the towering rock face of Goabddábákte. The peak itself is a large stack of loose boulders, some of which have fallen from the top and now lie scattered beside the trail. From there the trail descends into the Suoŋergårsså ravine, gradually dropping toward the treeline, where hikers pass through sparse mountain birch forest before reaching the rushing waters of the Piteälven river. There are no huts on this stretch, but plenty of good spots to pitch a tent. The river crossing itself can be challenging in times of high water, and hikers should be prepared for potentially flooded areas. On the far bank, near a secluded lake, a campsite emerges at 27 Piteälven camp site.
19 kmFrom Piteälven, the trail mostly runs through forest before crossing a bridge. After a short stretch of swamp, it climbs onto an odd, boulder-strewn plateau, where huge rocks lie scattered about as if placed there by giants. A solitary torvkåta (turf hut) sits right in the middle of this curious landscape, a glimpse into the region's past. From here the trail continues across the open, treeless plateau, with sweeping views of Sarek National Park to the east — a fitting reminder of the wilderness stretching out beyond. The going is rugged but rewarding, culminating at 28 Gásakláhko camp site.
13 km
A significant milestone awaits on this leg of the journey: crossing the Arctic Circle, marked rather anticlimactically by a simple wooden sign. Still, it's something worth celebrating. Heading north, mosquito activity will decrease from here—heading south, well, brace yourself. Shortly after, you'll reach Vuonatjviken, the only place along the Jäkkvik–Kvikkjokk section where you can buy supplies.
A boat ride across Lake Riebnes is required to reach Jäkkvik, and reservations must be made in advance due to limited cell service in the area when coming from the south. Travellers can call Vuonatjvikens Stugby for booking. The boat ride takes around 30 minutes.
- 29 Vuonatjvikens Stugby, ☏ +46 73 035 8673 (Jan Johansson), +46 70 696 8045 (Eva Johansson). Small store, boat 300 kr (2011)
18 kmAfter the boat ride, a short climb leads up to a mountain plateau, followed by a descent into forest. Next comes a brief rowing section. There are three boats available in this area. If you find only one boat on your side, you must row across, return with a second boat in tow, and then row over again, so that a boat remains on each shore. In 30 Jäkkvik, you can camp near Kyrkans Fjällgård, where lodging is also available, along with a kitchen. The town has an ICA Supermarket, offering dried food and mosquito repellent.
- 31 Kyrkans Fjällgård Jäkkvik, Byavägen 4, 938 95 Jäkkvik. Lodging, camping and kitchen. Accepts resupply packages.
22 kmAfter leaving Jäkkvik, hikers soon encounter a small hut with a fireplace, a good spot for a break. Most of the trail passes through a dense forest, with a large amount of rocks and boulders, which can be hard on your ankles. 32 Adolfström has an amazing café with a small store called Adolfströms Handelsbod Stugby & Café. You can stay at Adolfströms Camping. A farm near Adolfström Hyttruin also offers camping spots with a small lake nearby. During this section you will pass through Pieljekaise National Park.
- 33 Vindskydd Jäckvik. Wind shelter
- 34 Raststuga Pieljekaise. Emergency cabin
- 35 Pieljekaisestugan. Cabin with fireplace and kitchen
- 36 Vindskydd Lomtjärn. Wind shelter
- 37 Adolfströms Handelsbod Stugby & Café.
- 38 Adolfströms Camping.
23 kmYou can also take a boat directly to Bäverholmen, though it is not an official part of Kungsleden. Bäverholmen has a restaurant open from 12:00 to 18:00. After crossing a bridge, you reach Bárasjuhka. The coming two sections go through a large swamp. In the middle of the swamp, there is a short detour to a cabin called Sjnulttjie Rest Cabin. This cabin is unfortunately not airtight. Plenty of mosquitoes can and will enter this cabin if you have to sleep here. It's recommended to hike until you get out of the swampy area, and onto higher ground, rather than stop at the cabin.
- 39 Vindskydd Yraf.
- 40 Värdshus Bäverholmen. Restaurant, campsites and lodging
- 41 Vindskydd Bäverholmen.
- 42 Sjnulttjie Rest Cabin.
- 43 Bárasjuhka. Emergency cabin and campsite
46 km
Leaving Sjnulttjie, the swamp lingers a while before the trail turns uphill onto a mountain plateau that seems to stretch on forever. Higher peaks rise on either side, but the plateau itself is so worn down that nothing on it stands taller than a hiker. It's an exposed place to be caught in a storm — clear it immediately if lightning is nearby.
Eventually the plateau gives way, and a steep descent brings you down to Rävfallsstugan, one of the most memorable places to stay on the entire Kungsleden. Tucked into the forest beside the thundering rapids of the Vindelälven river, it comes with its own sauna, making it a perfect place to rest tired legs. It's run by the County Administrative Board rather than STF. From here the trail carries on toward 44 Ammarnäs, tracing the edge of the ski slope on the way down before swinging east into the village. Ammarnäs itself offers everything a tired hiker could want: a grocery store, a free toilet by the bus stop, free camping on the lawn behind it, Guidecentrum nearby, and two solid options for a hot meal at STF Ammarnäs Wärdshus and Ammarnäsgården — the latter also home to Naturum, with local tourist information and nature guides. For a taste of the region, Fjällvilt sells reindeer and other game products sourced locally.
Hikers looking to skip the Aigert stretch can instead book a boat taxi across Tjulträsk, cutting about 6.5 km off the route and rejoining the Kungsleden at Servestugan.
- 45 Rävfallsstugan. Not STF; reserve a key in advance (150 kr, 2019) and return by mail to Ammarnäs Livs if arriving from the south. Sauna available; chop your own firewood.
- 46 Stabre rastskydd.
- 47 STF Ammarnäs Wärdshus.
- 48 Ammarnäs Livs, Strandvägen 7, 924 95 Ammarnäs. Grocery store, accepts resupply packages.
- 49 Ammarnäs Båttaxi, ☏ +46 70 213 85 85 (Samuel Vinka), +46 70 602 90 88 (Mikael Vinka). Boat taxi across Tjulträsk bypassing Aigert, shortening the hike by ~6.5 km; book in advance.
Ammarnäs - Hemavan
[edit] 8 kmYou leave Ammarnäs on a gravel road, climbing steadily up the mountainside through forest, past waterfalls, until you near Aigert. Here the trail breaks above the treeline and opens up, shortly before you reach STF Aigert Mountain Cabin. Don't forget to look back on the way up—the views are fantastic.
- 50 STF Aigert Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, small store, sauna, bath
19 kmWhile STF Serve Mountain Cabin doesn't have a sauna, there's a lovely platform by the stream for washing up. If you prefer camping instead of staying in the cabin on the Aigert stretch, the best spot is at Vuomatjåhkka, a narrow valley to the west of the shelter. The rest of the stretch is either too exposed, rocky, or lacks nearby water. For a more picturesque camping spot, you can continue a little further west along the path and camp in the stream delta near Servestugan.
- 51 Vuomatjåhkka rastskydd. Emergency cabin
- 52 Juovatvaretje rastskydd. Emergency cabin
- 53 STF Serve Mountain Cabin. Kitchen
14 kmFrom Servestugan, the route goes up and over a few ridges, though none of them very high. Along the way you'll pass several streams crossed by bridges, where there are good camping options. Closer to Tärnasjö, the trail descends back into birch forest.
This area is low-lying and surrounded by lakes, which have a large amount of mosquitoes during the summer. It's best to camp higher up, above the treeline, to avoid the insects. However, there are still excellent camping options near the lakes if you prefer staying closer to the water. Otherwise, comfortable shelter is available at STF Tärnasjö Mountain Cabin.
- 54 STF Tärnasjö Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, large store, sauna, bath
14 km
From Tärnasjöstugan the route starts out through a bit of birch forest before soon opening up into low-lying, relatively flat walking next to the lake, at times mosquito-infested. It's quite a long stretch, with minimal shade and no running water or streams along the way despite being close to the lake, before you reach the bridge crossings and continue on to STF Syter Mountain Cabin.
- 55 STF Syter Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, bath. Accepts card payments. The eastern trail to Sytertoppen is available from here.
12 kmThis section passes through Syterskalet, a 10 km long U-shaped glacial valley framed by steep, craggy walls, widely considered one of the highlights of the entire Kungsleden. There are excellent tenting spots throughout Syterskalet, including near Syterskal Rastskydd. STF Viterskalet Mountain Cabin is on the other side of the valley. A newly constructed bridge at the western entrance of Syterskalet provides easier access to Sytertoppen from the west.
- 56 Syterskal Rastskydd.
- 57 STF Viterskalet Mountain Cabin. Kitchen, small store
10 kmThe final stretch descends right alongside the Hemavan ski slopes into 58 Hemavan, where travellers can celebrate their journey with a meal at one of its restaurants or enjoy a local craft beer at a bar. A gondola offers transportation into the valley for those who prefer not to walk down. It runs daily from 10:00 to 17:00 between late June and mid-August, and Friday–Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00 through late September as of 2026.
Stay safe
[edit]- Weather: Mountain weather changes quickly. Even in summer, expect cold, rain, or snow. Bring warm clothes, rain gear, and wind protection.
- Navigation: Some sections are marked, but fog is common. Use a topographic map, compass, and GPS or offline app.
- Water: Streams are usually safe. Avoid those near grazing areas.
- Wildlife: Reindeer are common. Observe quietly and keep your distance.
- Insects: Mosquitoes and midges can be severe in forested areas. Use repellent and carry a head net.
- Emergencies: Mobile signal is unreliable. Carry a PLB or emergency beacon if hiking alone. In an emergency, call 112.
- Planning: Leave your itinerary with someone, including a hard deadline when they should call emergency services, and keep them reasonably updated. Conditions can be tough and rescue may be delayed.
Go next
[edit]If you've enjoyed the scenic beauty of the Kungsleden, Sweden offers a wide range of other fantastic long-distance trails to explore. Consider the Padjelantaleden, another trail that takes you through part of the Laponia world heritage area. For a southward journey, the Södra Kungsleden continues from Hemavan through Dalarna, Härjedalen, and Jämtland, while the Lapplandsleden goes to Borgafjäll at the southern border of Swedish Lappland. For a truly international adventure, the Nordkalottleden extends from Abisko for some 380 km more of trekking, to Kautokeino in Norwegian Finnmark or to the south-west from Sälka or west from Kvikkjokk, to Sulitjelma, also in Norway.