Kungsleden – Travel guide at Wikivoyage

Kungsleden – Travel guide at Wikivoyage
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Kungsleden
Kungsleden
Contents
Understand
Prepare
2.1
Eat
2.1.1
Fishing
2.2
Drink
2.3
Sleep
2.3.1
Lodging
2.3.2
Camping
2.3.3
Backcountry
2.4
Climate
Get in
Walk
4.1
Abisko - Nikkaluokta
4.2
Nikkaluokta - Saltoluokta
4.3
Saltoluokta - Kvikkjokk
4.4
Kvikkjokk - Ammarnäs
4.5
Ammarnäs - Hemavan
Stay safe
Go next
Kungsleden
(“The King's Trail”) is a renowned long-distance hiking trail in northern
Sweden
, stretching approximately
450 kilometres (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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Willow shrubs, duckboards and fells by Miesakjávri, some 27 km south of Abisko
See also:
Hiking in the Nordic countries
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 metres (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
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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.
Map of Kungsleden
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.
OpenStreetMap
Naturkartan
Eat
edit source
See also:
Hiking in the Nordic countries §
Eat
While there are cooking facilities in the huts, you probably want to carry a
camping stove
. If you intend to use campfires, check possible restrictions – fire bans are common in summer. There are a few restaurants along the route, at the mountain stations and in some villages that the trail passes.
Food is available for purchase at many cottages along the trail and at some Sámi camps. While the selection may be limited, carrying your own food is not essential. However, be mindful of longer stretches without supplies, particularly between Jäkkvik and Kvikkjokk. Foraging for berries and mushrooms is allowed in most areas, following the usual precautions.
Supplies in the STF mountain cabins
Some of the larger mountain huts will hold resupply boxes for hikers. This includes Kvikkjokk Mountain Station and Saltoluokta Mountain Station. The only way to ship packages to these stations is through Bussgods. Sending packages to Ammarnäs and Jäkkvik is largely unnecessary, since they both have grocery stores. The selection of dried food may be limited. If you have specific dietary requirements, or otherwise need to send resupply boxes, there are several other locations you could consider.
Resupply
Distance (km)
Stage Goal
Notes
107
STF Saltoluokta Mountain Station
c/o STF Saltoluokta Mountain Station
982 99 Gällivare
Sweden
173
Kvikkjokk Mountain Station
c/o STF Kvikkjokk Mountain Station
Storvägen 19
962 02 Kvikkjokk
Sweden
253
Jäkkvik
c/o Kyrkans Fjällgård Jäkkvik
Byavägen 4
SE-938 95 Jäkkvik
Sweden
343
Ammarnäs
c/o Ammarnäs Livs
Ammarnäsvägen 25
924 95 Ammarnäs
Sweden
Fishing
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Fishing by the trail is mostly allowed, but requires paying a fee to get a permit.
Drink
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See also:
Hiking in the Nordic countries §
Drink
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
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Singi Mountain Cabin on the northern section of the Kungsleden trail
See also:
Hiking in the Nordic countries §
Sleep
In the north end, between Abisko and Kvikkjokk, there are huts mostly every
10–15 kilometres (6–9
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
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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
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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
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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
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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 colors 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
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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:
Lapplandsflyg
Fiskeflyg
Walk
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'"`UNIQ--maplink-0000000E-QINU`"'
Map of Kungsleden
Abisko - Nikkaluokta
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The journey to Nikkaluokta can be taken as a detour or excursion, most hikers however, continue to Singi, without walking to Nikkaluokta.
Abisko - Abiskojaure
15 km
The 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.
68.35842
18.7836
STF Abisko Turiststation
Restaurant, bath, store and grocery store nearby in the town of
Abisko
updated Feb 2026
68.32753
18.75342
Vindskydd Nissonjohka
Wind shelter
68.286111
18.590833
STF Abiskojaure Mountain Cabin
Kitchen, large store, bath
updated Feb 2026
Abiskojaure - Alesjaure
21 km
As 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.
68.19437
18.50555
Rádunjárga
Emergency cabin
68.136944
18.412778
STF Alesjaure Mountain Cabin
Kitchen, large store, sauna, bath
updated Feb 2026
Alesjaure - Tjäktja
13 km
Leaving 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. Those seeking a structured overnight stay will find refuge at STF Tjäktja Mountain Cabin, a welcoming spot along the route.
68.051648
18.241082
STF Tjäktja Mountain Cabin
Kitchen
updated Feb 2026
Tjäktja - Sälka
12 km
View from Tjäktjapasset, late July
Beyond the Tjäktja hut, the trail ascends to its highest point, Tjäktjapasset, standing at
1,150 metres (3,770
ft)
, close by, Tjäktapasset Rastskydd can be found. From Abisko to Sälka the trail coincides with
Nordkalottleden
, which then turns to the Norwegian Narvik fells and ends in Kvikkjokk farther on Kungsleden. Just before the pass lies STF Sälka Mountain cabin.
68.019728
18.247036
Tjäktapasset Rastskydd
Emergency cabin
67.946376
18.281701
STF Sälka Mountain Cabin
Kitchen, large store, sauna
updated Feb 2026
Sälka - Singi
12 km
Sälka'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.
67.85
18.324722
STF Singi Mountain Cabin
Kitchen
updated Feb 2026
Singi - Kebnekaise Mountain station
(Excursion)
15 km
Kebnekaise summit in August
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.
67.868333
18.620833
10
STF Kebnekaise Mountain Station
Kitchen, restaurant, small shop
updated Feb 2026
Kebnekaise Mountain Station - Nikkaluokta
(Excursion)
19 km
Ends at
67.8509
19.0158
11
Nikkaluokta
Nikkaluokta - Saltoluokta
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After your return from Nikkaluokta long the same path, or having skipped the detour entirely, you continue towards Saltoluokta.
Singi - Kaitumjaure
13 km
From Singi, the trail follows a winding river through the picturesque valley Ladtjovagge. The gradual shift in terrain introduces more vegetation, and as hikers approach Kaitumjaure, they find themselves within a sparse forest, offering a rare respite from the wind. Nestled in this tranquil setting is STF Kaitumjaure Mountain Cabin, an inviting stop for those looking to recharge.
67.746527
18.295671
12
STF Kaitumjaure Mountain Cabin
Kitchen, small store
updated Feb 2026
Kaitumjaure - Teusajaure
9 km
A short hike leads you up and above the treeline, until you descend steeply to STF Teusajaure Mountain Cabin.
67.694756
18.155433
13
STF Teusajaure Mountain Cabin
Sauna, boat 150 kr (2024, member), small store
updated Feb 2026
Teusajaure - Vakkotavare
15 km
After 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 from Vakkotavare per day, 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
67.688798
18.140595
14
Raststuga Dievssajávri
Emergency cabin
67.58169
18.100371
15
STF Vakkotavare Mountain Cabin
updated Feb 2026
Vakkotavare - Saltoluokta
30 km
View of Sarek from Kierkau, near Saltoluokta
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.
67.3941
18.5208
16
STF Saltoluokta Mountain Station
Restaurant, sauna, Wi-Fi, boat 2 km 175 kr (2024, member), post
updated Feb 2026
Saltoluokta - Kvikkjokk
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Saltoluokta - Sitojaure
19 km
From 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, a welcome rest stop before continuing south.
67.323171
18.500177
17
Raststuga Autsutjvagge
67.2324
18.4407
18
STF Sitojaure Mountain Cabin
Kitchen
updated Feb 2026
Sitojaure - Aktse
10 km
Approaching Aktse, travellers find themselves at the doorstep of Skierffe, a
1,179 metres (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.
67.148672
18.305904
19
STF Aktse Mountain Cabin
+46 70 673 5513
(Anne-Sophie)
Kitchen, large store, boat 300 kr (2024)
updated Feb 2026
Aktse - Pårte
22 km
The trail follows the eastern border of Sarek National Park, a vast, roadless wilderness with dramatic peaks and deep valleys. After a long day's hike, STF Pårte Mountain Cabin offers a cosy respite.
67.11702
18.28888
20
Raststuga Laitaure
Emergency cabin
67.08197
18.1048
21
Jågge Rastskydd
Emergency cabin
67.042306
17.942996
22
STF Pårte Mountain Cabin
Kitchen, bath
updated Feb 2026
Pårte - Kvikkjokk Mountain station
17 km
Rapids near Kvikkjokk
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.
66.951389
17.723611
23
Kvikkjokk Mountain Station
Restaurant, small store, sauna, Wi-Fi, bus, bath, boat 150 kr (2011), post
updated Feb 2026
66.950303
17.717548
24
Båttrafik i Kvikkjokk
+46 73 800 6232
(Helena Adolfsson)
Kvikkjokk - Ammarnäs
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Kvikkjokk - Tsielekjåkkstugan
15 km
The emergency cabin contains a basic phone, but keep in mind that it is neither airtight nor well-sealed. The climb upwards from the lakeside is steep, and can be slippery on descent.
The end for this stage is Tsielekjåkkstugan, an emergency shelter that provides the last indoor refuge for quite some distance.
66.92524
17.71902
25
Mallenjarka Rastskydd
Emergency cabin. Surrounded by a swamp, the cabin is prone to heavy mosquito activity in the summer, and they will find their way inside.
66.844722
17.588889
26
Tsielekjåkkstugan
Emergency cabin
Tsielekjåkkstugan - Piteälven
19 km
The trail begins to feel truly rugged on this stretch, with dramatic views of the Goabddabákte mountain as it looms over the path. The river crossing at Piteälven 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
66.71634
17.3413
27
Piteälven camp site
Piteälven - Gásakláhko
19 km
Traversing this segment of the trail, hikers will come across a solitary torvkåta (turf hut), a curious sight amidst the otherwise rocky terrain. It offers a glimpse into the region's past, where traditional structures once provided refuge. The trail here is rugged but rewarding, culminating at
66.620252
17.274477
28
Gásakláhko camp site
, an open plateau.
Gásakláhko - Vuonatjviken
13 km
Shores of Lake Riebnes
A significant milestone awaits on this leg of the journey, the crossing of the Arctic Circle, marked by a simple wooden sign. It's a momentous occasion for many trekkers, signalling their transition into the northernmost reaches of the Kungsleden. Shortly after, you reach Vuonatjviken. This is one of the few places along the trail to stock up on supplies before continuing.
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.
66.4927
17.2434
29
Vuonatjvikens Stugby
+46 73 035 8673
(Jan Johansson),
+46 70 696 8045
(Eva Johansson)
Small store, boat 300 kr (2011)
Vuonatjviken - Jäkkvik
18 km
After 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
66.383333
16.966667
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.
Jäkkvik - Adolfström
22 km
After 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.
66.2775
16.661111
31
Adolfsström
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
66.378565
16.929339
32
Vindskydd Jäckvik
Wind shelter
66.36716
16.91841
33
Raststuga Pieljekaise
Emergency cabin
66.351015
16.834027
34
Pieljekaisestugan
Cabin with fireplace and kitchen
66.28344
16.65821
35
Vindskydd Lomtjärn
Wind shelter
66.2782
16.6534
36
Adolfströms Handelsbod Stugby & Café
66.2774
16.6661
37
Adolfströms Camping
Adolfström - Raststuga Sjnulttjie
23 km
You 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.
66.29375
16.60013
38
Vindskydd Yraf
66.285775
16.553972
39
Värdshus Bäverholmen
Restaurant, campsites and lodging
66.283881
16.538651
40
Vindskydd Bäverholmen
66.20993
16.377144
41
Sjnulttjie Rest Cabin
66.280833
16.487778
42
Bárasjuhka
Emergency cabin and campsite
Raststuga Sjnulttjie - Ammarnäs
46 km
The solitary former settlement Örnbo
The trail descends steeply to Rävfallsstugan before reaching
65.958699
16.206175
43
Ammarnäs
. Ammarnäs has a grocery store called Ammarnäs Livs. At the bus stop in Ammarnäs there is a free toilet and at the lawn behind the bus stop it is possible to camp for free. Guidecentrum close to the bus, STF Ammarnäs Wärdshus and Ammarnäsgården for eating. Ammarnäsgården also hosts Naturum, with tourist information and nature guides. Fjällvilt sells local reindeer and game products.
You can bypass the Aigert stretch by taking a boat taxi across Tjulträsk with Thorbjörn from Ammarnäs Båttaxi. Please note that only cash payments are accepted. After the boat ride, it's a 15–20-minute walk inland to Servestugan.
66.0543
16.0709
44
Rävfallsstugan
To stay, reserve and collect a key in advance (150 kr, 2019). Return it by mail to Ammarnäs Livs if coming from the south. The cabin has a sauna; firewood must be chopped.
66.03772
16.10968
45
Stabre rastskydd
65.9603
16.21178
46
STF Ammarnäs Wärdshus
updated Feb 2026
65.9583
16.2123
47
Ammarnäs Livs
65.964285
16.045888
48
Ammarnäs Båttaxi
+46 70 682 0971
Ammarnäs - Hemavan
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Ammarnäs - Aigertstugan
8 km
You leave Ammarnäs over a gravel road, hiking up past waterfalls until you reach STF Aigert Mountain cabin. Don't forget to look back on the way up, the views are fantastic.
65.941376
16.094567
49
STF Aigert Mountain cabin
Kitchen, small store, sauna, bath
updated Feb 2026
Aigertstugan - Servestugan
19 km
While 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.
65.955
15.891
50
Vuomatjåhkka rastskydd
Emergency cabin
65.9233
15.95387
51
Juovatvaretje rastskydd
Emergency cabin
65.972338
15.764218
52
STF Serve Mountain Cabin
Kitchen
updated Feb 2026
Servestugan - Tärnasjöstugan
14 km
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.
65.988814
15.4973
53
STF Tärnasjö Mountain cabin
Kitchen, large store, sauna, bath
updated Feb 2026
Tärnasjöstugan - Syterstugan
14 km
Näsbergstjärnen in Vindelfjällen
The boat service over Tärnasjö has been discontinued since 2017. From Tärnasjöstugan you will cross multiple bridges before reaching STF Syter Mountain Cabin.
65.89275
15.39669
54
STF Syter Mountain Cabin
Kitchen, bath. Accepts card payments. The eastern trail to Sytertoppen is available from here.
updated Feb 2026
Syterstugan - Viterskalsstugan
12 km
There are excellent tenting spots throughout Syterskalet, including near Syterskal Rastskydd. Hikers will reach STF Viterskalet Mountain Cabin after a short climb. A newly constructed bridge at the western entrance of Syterskalet provides easier access to Sytertoppen from the west.
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Syterskal Rastskydd
65.885314
15.15853
56
STF Viterskalet Mountain Cabin
Kitchen, small store
updated Feb 2026
Viterskalsstugan - Hemavan
10 km
The final stretch descends into
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57
Hemavan
, where travellers can celebrate their journey with a meal at one of its restaurants or enjoy a local craft beer at a bar. The gondola, completed in 2019 after the old lift closed, offers transportation into the valley for those who prefer not to walk down. A single journey costs 125 kr for adults (2019) and operates from 10:00 to 17:00 during the summer.
Stay safe
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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
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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.
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Kungsleden
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