The Kungsleden, or "King's Trail" in French, is a must-see trekking destination for Arctic adventure enthusiasts. Located in Swedish Lapland, this trail offers a unique experience of snowshoeing or Nordic skiing through snow-covered landscapes. This article will provide you with all the details you need to plan your hike on the Kungsleden during the winter months.
Kungsleden, where the wild beat is pure
What is Kungsleden?
The Kungsleden is a 440-kilometre hiking trail that crosses northern Sweden, offering spectacular views of mountains, forests and frozen rivers. The northern section, which is the most travelled, comprises 5 stages:
| Stage 1 | Abisko - Abiskojaure | 3h30 | 13 kilometres | +105 m |
| Stage 2 | Abiskojaure - Alesjaure | 6h | 22 km | +330 m / -40 m |
| Stage 3 | Alesjaure - Sälka | 8h | 25 km | +370 m / -300 m |
| Stage 4 | Sälka - Kaitumjaure | 6h | 25 km | +150 m / -250 m |
| Stage 5 | Kaitumjaure - Vakkotavare | 7h | 22 km | +600 m ; -780 m |
On each stage, you have the opportunity to stay in comfortable refuges in the heart of nature. These are run by Svenska Turistföreningen (STF), a Swedish association dedicated to making nature accessible to hikers. We advise you to take out an STF membership card on the first day of your adventure to reduce the price of your subsequent nights.
Some refuges have a small grocery shop where you can buy food, drinks and sometimes camping equipment. The refuges are equipped with a wood-burning stove to keep you warm, a communal kitchen, dormitories with bunk beds and an emergency telephone, due to the absence of a mobile network in this region.
Most of the refuges have no electricity or running water, so you have to melt the snow to get water. They also have dry toilets.
Why choose Kungsleden in winter?
Exploring Kungsleden in winter is a particularly magical experience. The snow-covered landscapes, the silence of winter nature and the chance to see the Northern Lights make this adventure unique. Kungsleden is particularly popular during the summer months. Swedes from all over the world flock to this legendary hike.
Doing the Kungsleden in winter is:
- A real expedition during which you won't meet many hikers.
- White valleys as far as the eye can see, immersing you in the beauty of Lapland.
- The Northern Lights dancing high above your head.
- Your gear can be pulled along in a pulka, so you don't have a bag to carry.
- A snowshoeing or Nordic skiing activity that's out of the ordinary.
Planning your Kungsleden trek
Essential equipment for winter trekking
Getting your equipment right is crucial to enjoying Kungsleden in winter. You'll need warm clothes, sturdy hiking boots, snowshoes or skis, and of course a sleeping bag suitable for extreme temperatures.
You'll find our complete , structured list of everything you need to pack here .
The best times to go
The ideal months for hiking Kungsleden in winter are February to April, when the days start to get longer and the temperatures remain manageable.
Detailed itinerary for Kungsleden in winter
Key sections of Kungsleden in winter
The trail is divided into several sections, with popular starting points at Abisko and Nikkaluokta. Each section offers unique features, specific challenges and breathtaking scenery.
Viewpoints and sites not to be missed
Along the way, be sure to visit Abisko National Park, Mount Kebnekaise (Sweden's highest peak), and the many mountain huts where you can warm up and meet other hikers.
Winter survival tips
Prepare for extreme weather conditions
The weather in Lapland can be unpredictable and severe. It's essential to check the weather forecast regularly and be prepared for conditions that may include heavy snowfalls and sub-zero temperatures.
Safety and orientation on the snowy trail
Kungsleden's well-marked winter trails are maintained by the Swedish Tourist Association (STF). However, a compass and a detailed map are essential for safe navigation.
Unique experiences on Kungsleden
Encounters with Arctic flora and fauna
Arctic wildlife, including reindeer and polar foxes, as well as the unique flora of northern Sweden, add an extra dimension to this exceptional trip.
The Northern Lights: an unforgettable natural spectacle
Kungsleden is one of the best places in the world to observe the Northern Lights, offering dazzling natural spectacles on clear nights.
To find out more about Kungsleden and for detailed advice on how to prepare for your trek, visit the Swedish Tourist Association . For more information and guides to other hiking destinations, visit www.discoverent.com .
