Pieljekaise National Park Voyage Tips and guide

Pieljekaise National Park is in Norrbotten County the Lapland region of Sweden.

Established in 1909, Pieljekaise is one of Sweden's oldest national parks. It protects an area of pristine mountain birch forest and serves as a transition zone between forested lowlands and alpine highlands.

The park was created to preserve one of the largest continuous mountain birch forests in the country. Its name comes from the Sami language, reflecting the area's indigenous cultural ties.

The terrain is gently rolling, with valleys, low fells, and open plateaus. The landscape is shaped by glaciers and marked by numerous small lakes and wetlands.

Mountain birch dominates, accompanied by dwarf shrubs, mosses, and lichens. Wildlife includes moose, willow grouse, and sometimes wolverines or bears. Birdlife is rich, especially during the summer months.

The climate is subarctic, with short, cool summers and long, cold winters. Snow typically lingers well into late spring.

The main access is from the village of Jäkkvik, which lies along the Kungsleden hiking trail. The trail leads directly into the park.

There are no entrance fees. The rules for Pieljekaise largely follows what's typical for Swedish national parks. The right of public access (Allemansrätten) mostly applies.

In summary, you are allowed to:

• take dry branches and twigs to build a fire or to set up shelter and
• pick edible mushrooms and berries,

but not to:

• damage land and rocks or take away geological material,
• damage living or dead trees, twigs and bushes,
• pick or dig up plants,
• disturb wildlife, hunt or fish,
• damage ancient remains or cultural remnants,
• operate snowmobiles inside the national park or
• land with aircraft, including drones.

Dogs are allowed January to April, on Kungsleden (the main trail) all year. They need to be on leash at all times.

See the Allemansrätten article for some discussion and apply common sense. Consult the actual rules (in Swedish) or ask the park administration for anything out of the ordinary, such as dogsledding or non-private hikes.

The Kungsleden trail passes through the park. Travel is by foot; there are no roads or motorized access within the park.

• Expanses of mountain birch forest
• Views of nearby peaks and valleys from open plateaus

• Hike along the Kungsleden trail
• Wildlife and birdwatching
• Photography

There are no services within the park. Supplies can be bought in Jäkkvik.

No restaurants inside the park. Bring your own food.

Water from streams is usually clean but should be purified or boiled.

The nearest accommodation is in Jäkkvik, just outside the park.

Camping is allowed according to the rules of Swedish national parks. Stick to established sites when possible.

Backcountry camping is possible, but weather and terrain can be demanding. Be prepared and follow leave-no-trace principles.

Weather can change quickly. Be prepared for cold, wet conditions even in summer. Bring proper clothing and a map.

• Continue along the Kungsleden trail to Kvikkjokk or Ammarnäs
• Explore the nearby Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve