The Wall in Sälen is one of Sweden's most talked-about ski slopes – steep, powerful and legendary. It is located in Hundfjället and is known as one of the steepest groomed slopes in the country. Many who visit the mountains for the first time wonder: what exactly is the Wall, how steep is it and who should ski it?
The slope has become a signature feature of Sälen and a kind of “rite of passage” for skilled skiers. If you want to understand the area around Väggen more comprehensively, you can start with the hub page.
Hundfjället, where you can find all the information you need about the terrain, the lift system and the character of the area. In this FAQ, we go through the history, difficulty level, safety, tips for skiing and nearby alternatives for those who don't want to tackle the Wall but still want to experience Hundfjället's unique environment.
How steep is the Wall – and what makes it so special?
The Wall is known as one of Sweden's steepest slopes, with a gradient of up to 45 degrees in the steepest sections. When it is hard-packed, it often feels even steeper. The slope is classified as difficult/black, even for experienced skiers. What makes the Wall unique is the combination of:
Extreme slope Long, unbroken fall line Exposed location Rapid snow transformation due to weather A psychological element – it looks steep even from the top If you want to see how Hundfjället is structured – including Trollskogen, family areas and other slopes – read more at
Hundfjället.
Who is the Wall suitable for?
The Wall is not a slope for everyone. It is suitable for: Very experienced skiers Skiers who are proficient on black runs People with good fitness and technique Those who want a technically challenging experience The Wall is not suitable for:
Beginners Uncertain skiers Children Skiers who cannot handle icy or hard surfaces If you are travelling with mixed levels, you will find fantastic family areas near the Wall, especially Trollskogen. Read more about children's activities at
Family activities and child-friendly areas in
Sälen with children.
How does The Wall differ from other slopes in Sälen?
Sälen is known for being one of Sweden's most beginner-friendly mountains – but Väggen is the opposite. It stands out by being: Steeper
Straighter More technical Often harder underfoot Sometimes closed in difficult conditions The biggest contrast is between Väggen and Lindvallen's wide, gentle slopes. If you want to understand the differences between areas in general, please read:
Lindvallen
Högfjället
Tandådalen
For adults who love technical challenges, it is often Väggen and other steeper slopes at Hundfjäll that are the most appealing.
What conditions are best for skiing the Wall?
The wall is at its best when the surface is: Soft but stable Freshly prepared Not icy from top to bottom Windless It is common for the wall to become icy in the afternoon, especially in strong winds or when there are large temperature fluctuations. For the best possible experience, you should:
Go to the Wall in the morning
Professional skiers and experienced guides recommend tackling the Wall early in the day, preferably right after opening.
Avoid the hill in bad weather
In the event of snow, ice or strong winds, the slope can become considerably more challenging.
Study the slope before you ski
Take a trip to the top and look down – this will help you decide whether the conditions suit your level. If you want to combine the Wall with more nature-oriented experiences, there are nearby alternatives such as
Guided nature tours or snowmobile safari via
Scooter safari.
Are there alternatives to The Wall for those who want a challenge?
Yes — Hundfjället and Tandådalen offer several slopes that are challenging without reaching Väggen level. For those who want to develop in technically more difficult environments but not take the steepest route down, we recommend:
Steep red slopes in Tandådalen Cross-country skiing where the surface is softer Longer slopes with a more even gradient If you want to see the slope levels for the entire area, you can read more at
Sälens ski resorts.
Safety – what should you consider before climbing the Wall?
Safety should always be the top priority. Here are some important tips:
1. Ensure that you can stop quickly and in a controlled manner
On such a steep slope, you can quickly pick up speed.
2. Never ride the Wall if you feel unsure.
The psychological pressure can be just as great as the technical pressure.
3. Check the weather and ground conditions
Rapid temperature changes make the Wall particularly demanding.
4. Travel with someone who has experience
It is both safe and stimulating.
5. Respect closures
The wall is sometimes closed for safety reasons – follow the recommendations.
Summary – who should choose to go to Väggen?
You should choose Väggen if you: Are very experienced Have good technique Love adrenaline and steep slopes Want to try an iconic Swedish skiing experience You should choose an alternative if you:
Are a beginner Are unsure on black slopes Prefer gentler and wider slopes Sälen has fantastic slopes for all levels, and whether you ski the Wall or not, you can stay in exclusive accommodation close to Hundfjället in our cottages. Explore the options here:
Our Houses 