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
[edit]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.
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.
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 in late July. Pack clothing suitable for both extremes and choose campsites carefully, considering potential storm hazards.
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, 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.
Maps
[edit]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.
Sleep
[edit]
- See also: Hiking in the Nordic countries#Sleep
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.
Eat
[edit]- 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.
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.
| 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
[edit]Fishing by the trail is mostly allowed, but requires paying a fee to get a permit.
Drink
[edit]- 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 if conditions are drier than normal. It is fine 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.
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 was a direct coach route between Hemavan and Stockholm, that is 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
[edit]
Abisko - Abiskojaure
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 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
Abiskojaure - Alesjaure
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 4 Rádunjárga. Emergency cabin
- 5 STF Alesjaure mountain cabin. Kitchen, large store, sauna, bath
Alesjaure - Tjäktja
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 6 STF Tjäktja mountain cabin. Kitchen
Tjäktja - Sälka
[edit]- Distance
- 12 km
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.
- 7 Tjäktapasset Rastskydd. Emergency cabin
- 8 STF Sälka mountain cabin. Kitchen, large store, sauna
Sälka - Singi
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 9 STF Singi mountain cabin. Kitchen
Excursion: Singi - Kebnekaise Mountain station
[edit]- Distance
- 15 km
From Kebnekaise Mountain station you can climb Sweden's highest mountain, Kebnekaise.
- 10 Kebnekaise Mountain station. Kitchen, restaurant, small shop
Excursion: Kebnekaise Mountain station - Nikkaluokta
[edit]- Distance
- 19 km
Ends at 11 Nikkaluokta. 
.
Singi - Kaitumjaure
[edit]- Distance
- 13 km
From Singi, the trail follows a winding river through the picturesque Ladtjovagge valley. 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.
- 12 STF Kaitumjaure mountain cabin. Kitchen, small store
Kaitumjaure - Teusajaure
[edit]- Distance
- 9 km
A short hike leads you up and above the treeline, until you descend steeply to STF Teusajaure mountain cabin.
- 13 STF Teusajaure mountain cabin. Sauna, boat 150 kr (2024, member), small store
Teusajaure - Vakkotavare
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 14 Raststuga Dievssajávri. Emergency cabin
- 15 STF Vakkotavare mountain cabin.
Vakkotavare - Saltoluokta
[edit]- Distance
- 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. Restaurant, sauna, Wi-Fi, boat 2 km 175 kr (2024, member), post
Saltoluokta - Sitojaure
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 17 Raststuga Autsutjvagge.
- 18 STF Sitojaure mountain cabin. Kitchen
Sitojaure - Aktse
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 19 STF Aktse mountain cabin, ☏ +46 70 673 5513 (Anne-Sophie). Kitchen, large store, boat 300 kr (2024)
Aktse - Pårte
[edit]- Distance
- 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 cozy respite.
- 20 Raststuga Laitaure. Emergency cabin
- 21 Jågge Rastskydd. Emergency cabin
- 22 STF Pårte mountain cabin. Kitchen, bath
Pårte - Kvikkjokk mountain station
[edit]- Distance
- 17 km
The final stretch to Kvikkjokk leads hikers through varied landscapes, from dense forests to roaring rapids. Upon arrival, the mountain station 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 Kvikkjokk mountain 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. Restaurant, small store, sauna, Wi-Fi, bus, bath, boat 150 kr (2011), post
- 24 Båttrafik i Kvikkjokk, ☏ +46 73 800 6232 (Helena Adolfsson).
Kvikkjokk - Tsielekjåkkstugan
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 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.
- 26 Tsielekjåkkstugan. Emergency cabin
Tsielekjåkkstugan - Piteälven
[edit]- Distance
- 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 27 Piteälven camp site.
Piteälven - Gásakláhko
[edit]- Distance
- 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 28 Gásakláhko camp site, an open plateau.
Gásakláhko - Vuonatjviken
[edit]- Distance
- 13 km
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.
- 29 Vuonatjvikens Stugby, ☏ +46 73 035 8673 (Jan Johansson), +46 70 696 8045 (Eva Johansson). Small store, boat 300 kr (2011)
Vuonatjviken - Jäkkvik
[edit]- Distance
- 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 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
[edit]- Distance
- 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. 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 neargy. During this section you will pass through Pieljekaise National Park.
- 32 Vindskydd Jäckvik. Wind shelter
- 33 Raststuga Pieljekaise. Emergency cabin
- 34 Pieljekaisestugan. Cabin with fireplace and kitchen
- 35 Vindskydd Lomtjärn. Wind shelter
- 36 Adolfströms Handelsbod Stugby & Café.
- 37 Adolfströms Camping.
Adolfström - Raststuga Sjnulttjie
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 38 Vindskydd Yraf.
- 39 Värdshus Bäverholmen. Restaurant, campsites and lodging
- 40 Vindskydd Bäverholmen.
- 41 Sjnulttjie Rest Cabin.
- 42 Bárasjuhka. Emergency cabin and campsite
Raststuga Sjnulttjie - Ammarnäs
[edit]- Distance
- 46 km
The trail descends steeply to Rävfallsstugan before reaching 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.
- 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.
- 45 Stabre rastskydd.
- 46 STF Ammarnäs Wärdshus.
- 47 Ammarnäs Livs.
- 48 Ammarnäs Båttaxi, ☏ +46 70 682 0971.
Ammarnäs - Aigertstugan
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 49 STF Aigert mountain cabin. Kitchen, small store, sauna, bath
Aigertstugan - Servestugan
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 50 Vuomatjåhkka rastskydd. Emergency cabin
- 51 Juovatvaretje rastskydd. Emergency cabin
- 52 STF Serve mountain cabin. Kitchen
Servestugan - Tärnasjöstugan
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 53 STF Tärnasjö mountain cabin. Kitchen, large store, sauna, bath
Tärnasjöstugan - Syterstugan
[edit]- Distance
- 14 km
The boat service over Tärnasjö has been discontinued since 2017. From Tärnasjöstugan you will cross multiple bridges before reaching STF Syter mountain cabin.
- 54 STF Syter mountain cabin. Kitchen, bath. Accepts card payments. The eastern trail to Sytertoppen is available from here.
Syterstugan - Viterskalsstugan
[edit]- Distance
- 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.
- 55 Syterskal Rastskydd.
- 56 STF Viterskalet mountain cabin. Kitchen, small store
Viterskalsstugan - Hemavan
[edit]- Distance
- 10 km
The final stretch descends into 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
[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]- Padjelantaleden - another trail through part of Laponia
- Södra Kungsleden - southward from Hemavan, in Dalarna, Härjedalen and Jämtland
- Lapplandsleden - southward from Hemavan, to Borgafjäll in Dorotea at the southern border of Swedish Lappland.
- Nordkalottleden - from Abisko to the north 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, likewise in Norway.