Kungsleden Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

Kungsleden ("King of Trails") is a 430 kilometres (270 mi) hiking trail in northern Sweden, from Abisko to Hemavan, through part of Sápmi, the region inhabited by the Sámi people. The trail passes through the Laponia national parks, the largest wilderness area of Europe.

At Sälka, the trail passes Kebnekaise, the highest mountain in Sweden.

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. We highly recommend 40% DEET spray for reliable, long-lasting protection. Repellent devices are also a great option. Consider a mosquito head net for extra comfort during peak biting hours, and wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing when possible.

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.

Map of Kungsleden

The journey begins at 68.34934618.8312991 Abisko. 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 68.28614718.5911372 STF Abiskojaure Fjällstuga, offering a place to rest before continuing the journey.

As the trail winds toward Alesjaure, travelers 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 68.13667318.4147933 STF Alesjaure Fjällstuga, where visitors can resupply at the store or set up camp just over the bridge, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

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 68.05162818.2410814 STF Tjäktja Fjällstuga, a welcoming spot along the route.

Beyond the Tjäktja hut, the trail ascends to its highest point, Tjäktjapasset, standing at 1,150 metres (3,770 ft). There is an emergency cabin available here as well. From Abisko to Sälka the trail coincides with Nordkalottleden, which then turns to the Norvegian Narvik fells and ends in Kvikkjokk farther on Kungsleden. As the descent begins, hikers follow the path toward Sälka, where they can appreciate the dramatic scenery of surrounding peaks. Just beyond the pass lies 67.94637618.2817015 STF Sälka Fjällstuga, a well-placed refuge for those continuing their journey.

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 67.85118.3166 STF Singi Fjällstuga, where travelers can prepare for the next leg of their adventure.

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 67.74652718.2956717 STF Kaitumjaure Fjällstuga, an inviting stop for those looking to recharge.

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 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 canceled due to weather conditions. Both card and cash payments are accepted. While rowboats 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 67.5816918.1003711 STF Vakkotavare Fjällstuga, where travelers transition into Stora Sjöfallet National Park. Nearby, the bus stop at Kebnats offers transport to Saltoluokta, where 67.394118.52088 STF Saltoluokta Fjällstation provides not only lodging but also a cozy dining experience, complete with sauna facilities and kayak rentals.

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 67.23268118.4407239 STF Sitojaure Fjällstuga, a welcome rest stop before continuing south.

Approaching Aktse, travelers 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, 67.14867218.30590410 STF Aktse Fjällstuga 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 travelers 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. Contact Anne-Sophie at ☏ +46706735513. 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, 67.04230617.94299611 STF Pårte Fjällstuga offers a cozy respite.

The final stretch to Kvikkjokk leads hikers through varied landscapes, from dense forests to roaring rapids. Upon arrival, the mountain station at 66.95138917.72361112 Kvikkjokk welcomes weary travelers with a small store, a restaurant, and comfortable lodging, including showers and a washing machine. One of Kvikkjokk’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 a small emergency cabin at the water’s edge. Booking is required in advance, and travelers can call Helena Adolfsson ☏ +46738006232 to secure a spot. If arriving from the south, expect a 30-minute wait for the ferry. The emergency cabin contains a basic phone, but keep in mind that it is neither airtight nor well-sealed. Located in a swamp, the cabin is prone to heavy mosquito activity in the summer, and they will find their way inside. The climb upwards from the lakeside is steep, and can be slippery on descent.

The end for this stage is 66.84472217.58888913 Tsielekjåkkstugan, an emergency shelter that provides the last indoor refuge for quite some distance.

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 natural campsite emerges, complete with a small fireplace. Those looking for a more structured rest can find shelter at 66.430617.205114 Piteälven, a remote but scenic stop along the way.

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 66.62027817.27444415 Gásakláhko, an open plateau offering breathtaking panoramic views.

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, signaling their transition into the northernmost reaches of the Kungsleden. Upon arriving at 66.492717.243416 Vuonatjviken, hikers will find a small village store, run by the local family who owns the settlement. 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. Travelers can call Jan Johansson ☏ +46730358673 or Eva Johansson ☏ +46706968045 for booking. The 30-minute journey across the lake is followed by a strenuous climb before a rowing section awaits.

There are three boats in this area. If the side you're on has only one boat available, you’ll need to row across three times: first to reach the other side, then back while dragging another boat, and again to ensure one boat remains available at all times.

In 66.38333316.96666717 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.

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. 66.277516.66111118 Adolfsström has an amazing café with a small store: Adolfströms Handelsbod

There is a large camping available, as well as cottages which can be rented, see Campsite Adofström, Adolfströms camping. A farm near Adolfström Hyttruin also offers camping spots. A small lake can be found here as well. During this section you will pass through Pieljekaise National Park.

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 66.28083316.4877782 Bárasjuhka, which features an emergency cabin and a small campsite. The coming two sections go through a large swamp. In the middle of the swamp, there is a short detour to a cabin called 66.133716.215219 Sjnulttjie Rest Cabin. This cabin is unfortunately not airtight. Plenty of mosquitos 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.

On the way to Ammarnäs you will pass by 66.054316.07093 Rävfallsstugan. To stay here, one has to reserve and pick up a key in advance, which costs 150 kr (2019). The key has to be returned by mail to Ammarnäs Livs when coming from the southern direction. The cabin also has a sauna, for which you have to chop wood yourself. 65.95869916.20617520 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, 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 Båt-Taxi. Reach him at ☏ +46706820971. He also provides a taxi service between Ammarnäs and the lakeshore, which is about an 8 km trip. Please note that only cash payments are accepted. After the boat ride, it’s a short 15-20 minute walk inland to Servestugan.

Otherwise, you leave Ammarnäs over a gravel road, hiking up past waterfalls until you reach 65.94137616.09456721 STF Aigert Fjällstuga. Don't forget to look back on the way up, the views are fantastic.

While 65.97233815.76421822 STF Serve Fjällstuga 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.

This area is low-lying and surrounded by lakes, which have a large amount of mosquitos 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 65.98881415.497323 STF Tärnasjö Fjällstuga.

The boat service over Tärnasjö has been discontinued since 2017. 65.89275115.39669524 STF Syter Fjällstuga accepts card payments. There are good tenting spots near the cabins. The eastern trail to Sytertoppen is accessible from this location.

There are excellent tenting spots throughout Syterskalet, particularly near its junction with Viterskalet. Hikers will reach 65.88531415.1585325 STF Viterskalet Fjällstuga after a short climb. A newly constructed bridge at the western entrance of Syterskalet provides easier access to Sytertoppen from the west.

The final stretch descends into 65.81407615.1015126 Hemavan, where travelers 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.

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:

• Lapplandsflyg
• Fiskeflyg

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
• OpenHikingMap.
• Naturkartan

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.

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).

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.

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 huts

Some of the larger mountain huts will hold resupply boxes for hikers. This includes Kvikkjokk Fjällstation and Saltoluokta Fjällstation. 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, these two towns are also good options.

Fishing by the trail is mostly allowed, but requires paying a fee to get a permit.

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/deep enough to not get stagnant. Special care should be taken in lemming years, since dead carcasses may contaminate the water.

• Berggren, Annika, Vandringsturer på Kungsleden: Abisko - Kvikkjokk, Vildmarksbiblioteket, Växjö, 2008.
• Berggren, Annika, Vandringsturer på Kungsleden: Kvikkjokk - Hemavan, Vildmarksbiblioteket, Växjö, 2009.
• Feldt, Kjell-Olof. Vår bästa tid är i fjällen. Stockholm: Norstedt, 1993.
• Grundsten, Claes. Kungsleden The Royal Trail Through Arctic Sweden. Herefordshire: Carreg Ltd, 2009.
• Grundsten, Claes. Abisko, Kebnekaise: [leder, utflyktsmål, bestigningar, stugor]. Stockholm: Norstedt, 2010.
• Hennemann, Michael. Schweden: Kungsleden. Welver: Stein, 2011.
• Karlsson, Bo. Sareks fyra årstider. Stockholm: Norstedt, 1982.
• Magnusson, Lars, Vandra i Sverige: en vägvisare till sevärdheterna längs Sveriges vandringsleder, Prisma i samarbete med Svenska turistföreningen, Stockholm, 2002.
• Neregård, Fredrik, Fjällvandra längs Kungsleden: Abisko - Kebnekaise, Calazo Förlag, 2011.

• 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.