Kungsleden Trail 2023

The Kungsleden Trail

🥾 General Info

  • Length: ~440 km / 270 miles
  • Location: Swedish Lapland, above the Arctic Circle
  • Route: From Abisko (north) to Hemavan (south), or vice versa
  • Trail Type: Point-to-point
  • Name Meaning: “The King’s Trail”
  • Managed By: STF (Swedish Tourist Association)


🏞️ Terrain & Highlights

  • Elevation Gain: ~8,000 m / ~26,000 ft total
  • Landscape:
  • Arctic tundra, birch forests, alpine valleys, glacial rivers, snow-capped peaks
  • Stunning views of Sweden’s highest mountains, including Kebnekaise
  • Notable Sections:
  • Abisko → Nikkaluokta (most popular, ~110 km / 68 mi)
  • Nikkaluokta → Vakkotavare
  • Vakkotavare → Kvikkjokk
  • Kvikkjokk → Ammarnäs
  • Ammarnäs → Hemavan


🧍‍♂️ Hiking Stats & Experience

  • Typical Completion Time: 3–4 weeks for the full trail; 5–10 days for the northern section
  • Difficulty: Moderate – well-maintained trail, but remote and rugged in places
  • Navigation: Generally well-marked with red-painted trail markers and cairns
  • Best Direction: North to south is most popular (starting in Abisko)


🏕️ Camping & Logistics

  • Accommodation:
  • STF Mountain Huts every 10–20 km – basic but cozy with bunks, kitchens, and fireplaces
  • Wild Camping: Allowed and popular; Swedish “Allemansrätten” (Right of Public Access) permits it responsibly
  • Water Sources: Abundant – drinkable straight from rivers and streams
  • Food Resupply: Some huts and villages sell limited supplies; carry most food or plan resupply points
  • Ferries: 2–3 lake crossings require scheduled ferries, rowboats, or detours
  • Lodging in Towns: Available at trailheads and larger villages


🌿 Other Facts

  • Season: Late June – mid-September (snow-free season)
  • Midnight Sun: Visible early in the season (especially in June/July)
  • Bugs: Mosquitoes can be intense in July – bring headnets and repellent
  • Weather: Unpredictable – pack for cold, wet, and wind even in summer
  • Wildlife: Reindeer, arctic fox, lemmings, eagles; occasional bear or wolverine (very rare sightings)