Bergslagen trail Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

The Bergslagen trail (Swedish: Bergslagsleden) is a 280 km long-distance hiking route in Bergslagen, running from Kloten in the north to Stenkällegården near Tiveden National Park in central Sweden’s historical mining region.

See also: Hiking in the Nordic countries, Right to access

The trail is divided into 17 stages of 14 to 23 km each, offering a manageable pace for day hikes. The trail is a part of the E1 Long Distance Path. It is one of Sweden’s most popular trails, known for its well-maintained path and varied landscapes through Örebro County. Though the trail is well-maintaned and serviced, it is, at times, quite remote. Passing through areas with no clear entry or exit points.

A major appeal of the Bergslagen trail is its excellent infrastructure. The trail is clearly marked with orange paint on trees and posts, and junctions feature signposts with the Bergslagen trail symbol, an old mining emblem. Each stage includes at least one rest area with a wooden wind shelter (lean-to), a fire pit with firewood, and an outhouse toilet. These free shelters allow hikers to stay overnight without needing formal campsites. Maps for each stage are often available free of charge at local tourist offices.

Most sections are easy to moderate, with some steeper terrain in Kilsbergen and Tiveden. The trail is well-marked, but a map, compass, or offline GPS is recommended. Wear broken-in boots, dress in layers, and bring a rain jacket, mosquito repellent, and a basic first aid kit. If camping, pack your own tent or hammock in case shelters are full, along with a sleeping bag, mat, and lightweight stove.

The trail takes 2 to 3 weeks to complete, but shorter hikes are possible. Each stage takes 3 to 8 hours. The best hiking season is May to early October. Spring is cooler with fewer insects, summer is warm with long days and bugs, and early autumn offers fall colors and fewer pests. Winter hiking is difficult due to snow, ice, and closed water sources. Water is available from streams and lakes but should be purified.

Örebro is the main regional hub and offers local buses to several central trail sections. Trailheads are easily accessible by car. Public transport can get you close, but not all the way, so you may need to arrange a taxi in advance for the final part of the journey.

From Stockholm, take a train to 59.87324514.9894191 Kopparberg, then continue by pre-booked taxi for the final 20 km to Kloten. Driving from Stockholm takes 2.5 to 3 hours via E18 and road 50.

From Gothenburg, either drive about 4.5 hours via Örebro and Kopparberg or take a train to Örebro, connect to Kopparberg, and finish with a taxi to Kloten.

From Stockholm, take a train to Laxå or Hallsberg, then travel by bus or taxi toward Karlsborg or Tiveden. Driving takes about 3.5 hours via E20 and road 49.

From Gothenburg, take a train to Skövde, then a bus to Karlsborg, followed by a short taxi ride. Driving takes about 3 to 4 hours via E20 and road 49.

Distance

20 km

Starting from 59.89638915.2863892 Kloten, the trail passes the site of the former village of Källtjärn. A short detour offers a stop at Trollberget. Further along is Åbostugan, a simple reconstructed cabin illustrating traditional forest life. The route continues through the Getryggen Nature Reserve. After a rest area at Lilla Kroktjärn, the trail climbs steadily toward Gillersklack ski resort.

• 59.89947315.14353 Lilla Kroktjärn wind shelter. 
• 59.916715.054 Gillersklack ski resort.  

Distance

17 km

Departing from Gillersklack, the trail descends into the Finngruvan mining area, where remains of 17th-century copper extraction can be seen. The route continues through forested terrain and reaches Djäkens Bygge, a beautiful swimming area near Kopparberg. The trail then follows the shoreline of Lake Ljusnarn and ends in 59.83238915.00455 Stjärnfors, a village with a history of ironworking.

• 59.87012114.9527136 Djäkens Bygge. 

Distance

21 km

Starting from Stjärnfors, the trail ascends through historic Finnish settlements like Stuttjärn and Vintermossen, showcasing 17th-century colonization efforts. A notable highlight is Mackarsberg, offering expansive views over the surrounding forests. The route then skirts the Kindla Nature Reserve, one of Örebro County’s largest roadless areas. The stage concludes at 59.74681514.9882197 Nyberget.

• 59.79273314.9807388 Ungdomens källa. A natural spring near the trail, historically believed to have rejuvenating properties.  
• 59.74642614.9883919 Nybergets Hostel. A hostel offering two rooms with a total of eight beds, a well-equipped kitchen, shower, and toilet facilities in the village of Nyberget.  

Distance

23 km

Departing from Nyberget, the trail traverses historical mining landscapes, including the Risbergsgruvan mine, a typical example of smaller iron ore mines from the early 1800s. The path ascends Risbergshöjden, offering views of Lake Råsvalen and the Stråssa mine. Continuing past Smedsjön, hikers reach the Garphyttedammen wind shelter. The route then passes through the Lejakärret Nature Reserve, home to twelve species of orchids, before arriving at 59.63715915.04571710 Uskavi.

• 59.69387815.05682711 Garphyttedammen wind shelter. 
• 59.63589415.04672612 Uskavigården. A lakeside facility offering various accommodations, including hostel rooms, cabins, and camping sites. Amenities include a café, beach, sauna, canoe rentals, and a mini-golf course.  

Distance

18 km

Initially, the trail passes by the remains of a forest canal. Near Södra Brunnsjön, hikers encounter the ruins of two small buildings, possibly linked to early settlement or mining activity as well as Södra Brunnsjöns wind shelter. The stage ends in 59.53611115.11388913 Hammarby, a village near the Järleån Nature Reserve.

• 59.60993115.09429514 Södra Brunnsjöns wind shelter.  

Distance

15 km

Starting from Hammarby, the trail follows the Järleån River past Hyttfallet, the site of a smelter dating back to 1544. It continues through the Järleån Nature Reserve, with rapids, dense vegetation, and varied terrain. After a steady climb to Röbraket, hikers get open views of Lake Norasjön and the town of Nora. A marked detour leads to Stora Berget, a high point with additional views. The route also passes two glacial potholes formed during the Ice Age. After reaching Uvberget wind shelter the trail crosses the old Ervalla–Nora railway and a peat bog before reaching Digerberget, a recreation area with hiking facilities. The stage ends in 59.49444715.00659215 Pershyttan, a mining village with preserved ironworks and a working waterwheel system.

• 59.49287715.10711116 Uvberget wind shelter. (updated May 2025)

Distance

14 km

The path skirts Lake Dammsjön, once a reservoir for mining operations, and follows a hand-dug 19th-century canal that diverted water from the Lerkesån stream to Dammsjön. Continuing south, hikers traverse an old wagon road used for transporting ore to Ramshyttan, where remnants of iron processing remain. Near Ramshyttan, the trail passes by Kvarndammen wind shelter. The trail then passes Sågställningsbottnarna and offers a detour to the Amboberget viewpoint. Near the end, the route enters the Skärmarbodabergen Nature Reserve, featuring glacial formations, caves, and ancient pine forests. The stage concludes at 59.441515.1402817 Mogetorp.

• 59.45113115.03709118 Kvarndammen wind shelter. (updated May 2025)
• 59.45113115.03709119 Ramshyttan water source. A natural spring near the trail, providing fresh drinking water for hikers.  

Distance

14 km

Departing from Mogetorp, the trail ascends through the Skärmarbodabergen Nature Reserve. A short detour leads to the Blå Grottan and Frihetsportalen, two notable rock formations. Continuing onward, hikers pass through the Norra Trolldalen valley, a deep ravine shaped by glacial meltwaters, and encounter ancient shingle embankments formed by the Yoldia Sea. Midway, you will pass by Vinterhagen wind shelter. The trail then climbs to Rusakulan, a viewpoint at 265 meters elevation, providing views over the Närke plain. The stage concludes at 59.39416914.99535120 Blankhult, where accommodations and fresh water are available.

• 59.41570415.04887221 Vinterhagen wind shelter.  

Distance

9.7 km

Departing from Blankhult, the trail ascends through hilly terrain, passing through four nature reserves. After approximately 3 km, hikers reach Tomasboda, cabin is available. Sadly, the cabin is only open during winter, but you can enjoy the nearby fireplace. The trail continues past Stora Dammsjön, a lake that once served as a water reservoir for nearby ironworks. Further along, a 500-meter detour leads to Skansberget, the site of an ancient hillfort dating back to the Migration Period. The route also passes through the Trolldalen Nature Reserve, a dramatic ravine with steep cliffs and unique flora. Passing by Gårdsjötorp, the stage concludes at 59.3365914.9436422 Ånnaboda.

• 59.3752314.9568123 Gårdsjötorp. A restored 19th-century farmstead offering a rest cabin and several overnight cottages. Facilities include a kitchen, shower, and toilet. Open on weekends; available for booking on weekdays.  

Distance

6.7 km

Starting from Ånnaboda, the trail ascends through the Ånnaboda Nature Reserve, passing the steep Falkaberget hill, which offers views over Lake Falkasjön and features inscriptions of Dag Hammarskjöld’s words. The route continues through deciduous forests and hay meadows, reflecting the region’s agricultural history. Roughly halfway, the trail passes by Björktjärn wind shelter. The trail concludes at 59.29956814.89415124 Suttarboda, where hikers can visit Sörtorpet, a restored Kilsberg cottage.

• 59.32397214.9068725 Björktjärn wind shelter. 

Distance

16 km

Beginning in Suttarboda, the trail passes through Garphyttan National Park, one of Sweden’s oldest, featuring meadows and ancient agricultural landscapes. The route continues through the Dunderklintarna Nature Reserve. Passing by Lilla Tväggelåten wind shelter, the trail then ascends to Klunkhytte Skans, an Iron Age hillfort offering views of Lake Leken and the Kilsbergen ridge. The stage concludes at 59.2668214.7956726 Leken, near the Klunkhyttan homestead and the E18 road, with access to public transport and a lakeside bathing area.

• 59.27646514.82628427 Lilla Tväggelåten wind shelter. 

Distance

19 km

Starting from Leken, the trail ascends to Lekhytteklint. The path then passes Nybergskällan, a spring once believed to have health benefits due to its radium content, and continues past the remnants of Nybergsgruvan, a small iron mine. Midway through the hike, you pass by Lillsjöbäcken wind shelter. The trail traverses the Båsbergen and Stenbäcken nature reserves. Near the end, hikers encounter Hagabergsgruvorna, a series of iron ore pits active from the 1500s to the 1800s, and Hjulhusdammen, the remains of an 80-meter-long dam that once powered mining equipment. The stage concludes at 59.1821914.6545628 Sixtorp, a recreational area by Lake Multen, offering accommodations, a sandy beach, and access to several shorter trails.

• 59.23028314.72994629 Lillsjöbäcken wind shelter. 

Distance

19 km

Starting from Sixtorp, the trail leads through the Sixtorp Nature Reserve. A short detour takes hikers to the Limsten limestone mines, accessible via a one-kilometer path. The trail passes Lake Tunntappen, which can unexpectedly drain its water through an underground outlet. Midway, you pass by Södra Holmsjön wind shelter. Further along, the path crosses the old Svartå railway and the main Stockholm–Oslo railway line. The stage concludes at 59.1119614.54803330 Lugnsbo, near Svartå Manor.

• 59.16469714.55028931 Södra Holmsjön wind shelter. 

Distance

21 km

Starting from Lugnsbo, the trail passes through the Svartå ironworks area, active from the 17th to 19th centuries. A short detour leads to Bojegruvan and Kärrgruvan, former iron mines with visible shafts and spoil heaps. The path continues through a beech forest, one of the northernmost in Sweden, and passes the Ekåsabränningen shingle field, formed by ancient sea waves. Midway, hikers reach the Bäckelid wind shelter. The trail then traverses Rankemossen, an untouched mire with views from Predikarberget. Approaching 58.97042514.54330432 Ramundeboda, the route passes the ruins of a 12th-century monastery and concludes near Lake Borasjön.

• 59.0418614.53116833 Bäckelid wind shelter.  

Distance

22 km

Departing from Ramundeboda, the trail follows the ancient Munkastigen pilgrim route along the Kråksjöåsen esker, marking the boundary between Närke and Västergötland. A notable landmark is Altarstenen, a large glacial erratic traditionally believed to have served as a resting and prayer site for medieval monks. The path continues past the ruins of the 17th-century Långdammen croft. Further along, hikers encounter the remains of a 19th-century timber chute used for log driving along the Långsmoån stream. You will pass by Kråksjön wind shelter on your way to Gråmon wind shelter.

• 58.88897314.57907734 Kråksjön wind shelter. 
• 58.92671714.55614435 Långsmon kallkälla. A natural cold spring near the trail, providing fresh drinking water for hikers.  
• 58.83114914.63034536 Gråmon wind shelter. Near the ruins of an old croft, it's a popular spot for hikers to rest and access fresh water.  

Distance

14 km

Starting from Gråmon, the trail passes through the Getaryggen Nature Reserve, featuring a narrow gravel ridge and a well-formed glacial pothole. The path continues past small meadows and barns, including the old village of Tivedstorp, now a hostel. Midway, you will pass by Bosjön wind shelter before reaching 58.75833314.59166737 Tivedstorp.

• 58.7934114.64758338 Bosjön wind shelter. (updated May 2025)
• 58.7588314.59349239 STF Tivedstorp Hostel.  

Distance

12 km

After Tivedstorp, you will enter Tiveden National Park, which has a beautiful beach, as well as toilets and other facilities. Camping is only allowed on certain spots inside of the national park. Notable along the route is the Junker Jägare's Stone, a large boulder associated with local folklore. The stage concludes at Stenkällegården by Lake Bocksjön.

• 58.68796414.61773240 Stigmansgården Logi & Café. Near Tiveden National Park, Stigmansgården offers hostel accommodations and cabins with views of Lake Bocksjön.  
• 58.68071714.59767641 Stenkällegården. At the southern end of the Bergslagen trail, Stenkällegården is a family-friendly campsite offering self-catering cottages, camping pitches, and amenities such as a playground and a small shop.  

The Bergslagen trail offers the chance to encounter Sweden’s rich forest wildlife, including moose, deer, and many bird species. Bears, wolves, and lynx also live in the area, but they are elusive and rarely seen. Insects are a more likely issue. Mosquitoes, midges, and ticks are common in summer. Use repellent, wear long clothing, and check for ticks each day. It's advised to take a vaccine for Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). If you are camping, keep your tent zipped to keep insects out.

The trail is well marked with orange paint and signposts, which makes it easy to follow. Still, it is important to bring a map or download the Naturkartan app, which shows your location even without mobile reception. Signage can sometimes be missed, especially when snow or leaves cover the markings in early spring or winter. A compass is a useful backup if you stray from the path.

Mobile phone coverage is inconsistent. Always let someone know your planned route and carry a power bank to keep your phone charged. The emergency number 112 will connect you through any available network.

While the trail is not technically difficult, expect some rough sections with roots, rocks, and slippery ground. Blisters and minor injuries are common, so wear sturdy boots and pack basic first aid. The weather can change quickly. Bring rain protection and warm clothing. In autumn, hunters may be active in the forest. Wear bright clothing and stay on the trail during daylight hours. Follow the principles of Allemansrätten by respecting nature, avoiding damage, and packing out your trash.

Fire safety is important. Use the designated fire rings at shelters for any campfire, and only build fires in places where it is explicitly allowed. During dry periods, especially from late spring through summer, fire bans are common. Always check the current status using the Brandrisk Ute app or information from the County Administrative Board before starting a fire.

• Västra Vätterleden: At the trail's southern end in Stenkällegården, you can continue southwest on the Västra Vätterleden toward Lake Vättern and Karlsborg. The town features a fortress and access to the Göta Canal.
• Tiveden National Park: Tiveden offers rugged forests, mossy boulders, and scenic loops like Trollkyrka. Camping is allowed at designated sites or at the nearby Stenkällegården campground.
• Nora and Pershyttan: From Stage 10, a side trail leads to the charming lakeside town of Nora, known for its 19th-century wooden houses and ice cream. Pershyttan nearby has ironworks with guided tours.
• Örebro: The region’s largest city is a good place to relax after the trail, with a medieval castle, restaurants, and full amenities. It also serves as a base for shorter hikes in the area.
• Other trails in Central Sweden: You can follow the E1 north into Dalarna, explore local trails like Munkastigen and those in Kilsbergen, or head east to the Sörmlandsleden network. For alpine scenery, consider hiking the Kungsleden in northern Sweden.