Kungsleden
Photo: Tobias Radeskog, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Kungsleden ("The King's Trail") is a renowned long-distance hiking trail in northern Sweden, stretching approximately 450 km 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.
UnderstandKungsleden meanders through varied landscapes including alpine tundra, birch forests, expansive valleys, and rugged mountain passes.
PrepareThe 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.
Get inIt is most common to start in Abisko (Abisko Turiststation). It is possible to reach Abisko with the night train from Stockholm.
WalkThe journey to Nikkaluokta can be taken as a detour or excursion, most hikers however, continue to Singi, without walking to Nikkaluokta.
Stay safe
Go nextIf you've enjoyed the scenic beauty of the Kungsleden, Sweden offers a wide range of other fantastic long-distance trails to explore.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Kungsleden" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Tobias Radeskog, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons