Activities · Walking and cycling
The best walking routes in Sälen – our favourites
Trails ranging from three to twelve kilometres and a 25-kilometre bike park – the mountains without snow.
Your party
1per house, no other guests
The whole house from
29,500 SEKweek, low season
Three houses next to one another
51guests in Sälengodset, Fjällgodset and Winebunker, with their own function room
The Bike Park
25 kmfifteen tracks
When the snow melts and the mountains come alive, Sälen shows a whole new side - with green hills, babbling brooks and views that stretch for miles over the horizon. The summer season here offers a paradise for those seeking hiking in Sälen or want to embark on cycling holidays in the mountains.
With over 100 kilometres of marked hiking trails and with a growing network of cycle paths, there is something for everyone – from families with children looking for easily accessible nature experiences to experienced hikers and mountain bike enthusiasts. And when the day is over, our exclusive cottages in Sälen await, where saunas, hot tubs at Sälengodset, Fjällgodset and Winebunker, and panoramic views will recharge your batteries for the next stage of your journey.
Discover more tips in our guide to experiences in Sälen for both summer and winter.
The walk
1. The Östfjälls Circuit – 9 km, 2–3 hours, easy
Our first route: starting opposite the Högfjällshotellet, with tarmac for the first 2.5 kilometres so that even a pushchair can manage it; the wind shelter at Köarskärsfjället serves as a spot for a coffee break, and Östfjällsstugan is the turning point before the footbridges take you back. It follows part of the Södra Kungsleden trail and is the route that offers the most open mountain scenery per hour.
2. Stensjön – 3 km there and back, 1 hour, very easy
Up the lift, along the footbridge: from Snögubben at the top of the Gustav Express to the lake and back. The family trail – and the only one where you’re up in the mountains ten minutes after leaving Gustavtorget. The lift runs daily from mid-June to mid-August; otherwise, you can walk up the Kari Traa trail, 3 kilometres and 337 metres of elevation gain.
3. The Sälfjäll Trail – 14 km, 4–5 hours, moderate
From Gammelgården on Högfjället out to Hemfjällsstugan, with waffles on the veranda in summer, then the choice: over Mellanfjället or round via Storfjällsgraven. The day trip that takes in the whole of Sälenfjällen.
4. The Hundfjällslingan – 12 km, 3–4 hours, red
Start at Tandådalstjärn on Road 66, via Hundfjällskölen and Skogsäterstugan, up to the summit of Hundfjället. The marked trail ends at the summit, so you’ll have to find your own way down through the ski area – the most disappointing view of Norway on the list, and the one that requires the most legwork.
5. The Syndal Trail – 15 km, 3–4 hours, 320 metres of elevation gain
From Myrflodammen via Kläppenskjulet and Lägerdalsfjället; the path down towards Kruggån is steep. For those who fancy a long, varied walk away from the crowds.
6. The Southern Hemfjäll Trail – 11 km, 3 hours, blue
From the Hemfjällstangen trail centre via Mellanfjällsstugan to Hemfjällsstugan and back along the Sälen loop. Hilly, stony and wet in places – but the quickest route to Hemfjällsstugan.
7. Storfjällsgraven – 7 km round trip, 2 hours, easy
From the summit of Gustav Express down into the valley between Storfjället and Mellanfjället to Sälen’s oldest mountain café. Or 4 kilometres one way from Högfjällsgården. Mountain waffles at the turning point.
8. Lördagsgraven – 17 km, 5–7 hours, black
From Högfjällshotellet, around 255 metres in altitude – our favourite black run, for those who have the time and the stamina.
All trails in the Sälen area, section by section, including the Stöten, Kläppen and the Vasaloppet Trail: walking trails in Sälen.
Hiking in Sälen - from easy walks to challenging summit hikes
Hiking in Sälen offers a diversity of experiences that few other places in Sweden can match. Here you'll find everything from easy, family-friendly paths to more demanding trails that reward you with breathtaking views from the mountain peaks. Lindvallen and Tandådalen offer several easily accessible routes where you can enjoy the mountain nature without having to be an experienced hiker. For those looking for more of a challenge, there is Städjan-Nipfjället nature reserve with its dramatic peaks and Fulufjället National Park with the mighty Njupeskär - Sweden's highest waterfall.
Book your mountain home near the hiking trails
Our exclusive chalets are strategically located with direct access to Sälen's best hiking trails. End the day with a sauna and relaxation!
Cycling
Cycling in Sälen - from family-friendly trails to adrenaline-fuelled downhill
Sälen has quickly become one of the Sweden's most popular destinations for cycling in the mountains - whether you're looking for quiet gravel roads or fast-paced downhill runs. With the Sälen Bike Park the centre offers the area over 25 kilometres of purpose-built trails in varying degrees of difficulty, from green family trails to black technical challenges.
Thanks to the smooth the lift system In Lindvallen you can easily get up the mountain, ready to enjoy the slopes. And outside the park, a network of scenic trails and cross country leader, including along Västerdalälven, which is perfect for cycling holidays with children.
Cycling for the whole family
Sälen offers several easy trails and gravel roads that are perfect for families with children. Try the beautiful loop around Västerdalälven or the flat trails around Lindvallen where the surface is firm and the terrain gentle.
Technical challenges for enthusiasts
For those seeking adrenaline and technical challenges, the Sälen Bike Park offers a paradise of drops, jumps, berms and north shore sections that will challenge even the most experienced cyclist.
Perfect accommodation for your cycling holiday
Our spacious cabins have plenty of room for bikes and equipment, as well as cosy relaxation areas to unwind after the day's adventures.
For whom
Activities for everyone in Sälenfjällen
One of the main advantages of Sälen as a walking and cycling destination is the wide variety of activities to suit different ages, interests and experience levels. Families with children, adventurous couples, groups of friends and corporate groups can all find experiences to suit their preferences. From short, easy-to-follow routes with plenty of rest stops to full-day adventures in the mountains, Sälen delivers world-class nature experiences no matter who you are.
After a day of activities in the fresh mountain air, there's nothing better than returning to a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. In Sälengodset, Fjällgodset or Olarslodgen you'll find luxurious facilities such as a sauna, hot tub (Sälengodset and Fjällgodset only) and spacious social areas where you can socialise and share the day's experiences. To make the evening extra memorable, you can book a private chef to prepare an exclusive dinner using local ingredients right in the chalet.
Relaxation after the activity
Enjoy complete relaxation in our exclusive cottages, which feature a private sauna, a hot tub in Sälengodset, Fjällgodset and Winebunker, and comfortable communal areas after a day’s walking or cycling.
Teambuilding in nature
Strengthen the community in the work group through customised activity packages with guided tours and shared nature experiences in the mountain environment.
Gastronomic highlights
Let a professional chef transform local ingredients into a memorable meal in your cabin after a day of mountain adventures.
The joints
Hiking gems - trails, tips and seasonal guide
Hiking in Sälen means experiencing the Swedish mountains at their most accessible. Here you’ll find everything from short walks to challenging day hikes, each with its own character and charm. Whether you’re looking for flower-filled mountain meadows, enchanting forests or magnificent views from the bare mountain peaks, there’s a trail here to suit your preferences. Below, we share our top tips to help you get the most out of your hiking experience in the Sälen mountains. If this is your first time heading into the mountains, there’s a step-by-step guide on how to planning your first mountain hike. Stay close to the trails in a whole house, with off-season rates from the end of April: rent a cottage in Sälen in the summer.
Family-friendly hiking trails
For families with children or those new to mountain walking, we highly recommend Trollskogen at Hundfjället. This 1.5-kilometre trail takes you through an enchanting forest with exciting features that children will love – see if you can spot all the little trolls hiding along the way! The trail has firm ground and only moderate elevation changes, making it perfect for little legs. More child-friendly options can be found in our guide to walking trails suitable for families with children. At Gubbmyren, there’s also a lovely barbecue area where you can take a well-deserved break with a packed lunch.
Another family-friendly favourite is the Experium trail, which starts in the centre of Lindvallen. This 4-kilometre circular trail partly follows Västerdalälven and offers several nice resting places and good fishing waters for those who want to try their luck at fishing. The trail is well marked and has information signs about the area's flora and fauna that are exciting for both children and adults.
Challenging hike for the adventurous
For those looking for a greater challenge, we recommend the Södra Hemfjällsturen trail starting from Hemfjällstangen. This 11-kilometre circular route takes you up onto the bare mountain, where the views over Sälenfjällen are spectacular. The walk requires a good level of fitness as the elevation gain is around 190 metres and the terrain is rocky and wet, but the reward in the form of marvellous views is well worth the effort. Make sure to bring plenty of water and an energy-rich packed lunch – at the summit there’s plenty of space for a hearty lunch with panoramic views.
For the truly adventurous, Sälen also offers the possibility of multi-day hikes. By following parts of the Southern King's Trail, you can experience the mountain world in depth and stay overnight in one of the strategically placed mountain huts along the way. This is an experience for those who really want to get away from everyday life and into nature's own rhythm.
Expert tips for a successful day of hiking
- Study the map in advance and choose a route that suits your level of experience and fitness. Don't overestimate your abilities - hiking in the mountains can be more demanding than you think.
- Pack smart with the layer upon layer principle. Even in summer, the weather can change quickly in the mountains. A windproof jacket, rainwear and an extra jumper are always a good idea.
- Bring enough water and an energy-rich packed lunch. A thermos of hot tea or coffee is also worth its weight in gold in summer.
- Invest in a good pair of walking shoes or boots with good grip. The ground can be both rocky and wet.
To make your hike even more rewarding, book a guided tour with one of the local guides. They know the mountains like the back of their hands and can tell you fascinating stories about the nature, culture and history of the area. At Sälengodset we are happy to put you in touch with experienced guides who can tailor tours to your requirements.
The courses
All the possibilities of cycling in the Sälen - from flat trails to technical challenges
In recent years, Sälen has established itself as one of Sweden's most exciting cycling areas with a varied range for all types of cyclists. There is everything from quiet family rides on gravel roads to adrenaline-fuelled downhill courses that challenge even the most experienced. The combination of beautiful scenery, well-developed infrastructure and professional service makes Sälen an obvious choice for your next cycling holiday. Our cabins at Sälengodset are strategically located close to both the Sälen Bike Park and the scenic bike trails, giving you a perfect starting point for your cycling adventures.
Sälen Bike Park - a mecca for mountain bike enthusiasts
Sälen Bike Park has quickly become a must-visit destination for Sweden’s mountain bike enthusiasts. With eight lift-served trails, ranging from the green Valles DH to the black Sherpa, there is something here for all levels. Beginners can safely start on the green trails, which offer a gentle introduction to the sport, whilst more experienced riders can challenge themselves on the blue, red and black trails featuring technical sections, jumps and drops.
A big advantage of the Sälen Bike Park is the lift system that conveniently transports both you and your bike up the mountain. This allows you to focus on the fun - the descents - without having to spend all your energy cycling uphill. Lift passes can be purchased for single days or full weeks, and for beginners we highly recommend booking a guided introduction with one of the park's skilled instructors.
Scenic bike rides for all ages
Outside the bike park there is a growing network of scenic cycle paths that are ideal for those looking for a more relaxed experience. Västerdalälven round is a popular loop of about 15 kilometres that follows the winding course of the river through beautiful meadows and forests. The surface is mostly firm gravel road, which makes the tour suitable even for families with children.
For those who want to experience more of the mountain nature, we recommend Tandådalsslingan, a 12-kilometre tour that takes you through varied terrain with fantastic views of the mountain massif. The trail has some moderate climbs but is mainly relatively easy and suitable for cyclists with some basic fitness.
Preparing for a successful cycling holiday
- Equipment: Bring your own bike or rent on site. In Sälen there are several rental outlets with quality bikes for all ages and levels. We at Sälengodset are happy to help you make contact.
- Security: Helmets are an absolute must, especially in the bike park. For downhill cycling, knee and elbow pads and back protectors are also recommended.
- Planning: Study maps and trail markers in advance. Sälen Bike Park's website has detailed information on all trails and their difficulty level.
- Fluid balance: Bring enough water, especially on hot summer days. One bike bottle is rarely enough for a whole day.
To make your cycling holiday even more comfortable, at Sälengodset we offer several optional services to make your stay easier. Why not order a ready-made breakfast basket to be waiting in your cabin when you wake up, or book a cleaning service so you can fully focus on your cycling experience?
The season
Experience Sälen all year round - seasonal guide for hiking and cycling
Seasonal guide to hiking and cycling in Sälen
| Seasonal | Best period | Hiking | Cycling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | May-June | Lower trails start to become snow-free. Spring floods create spectacular waterfalls. Varying weather requires good planning. | Sälen Bike Park usually opens in late May. Gravel roads and lower trails start to dry up. Ideal for XC cycling. |
| Summer | July-August | High season with optimal conditions. All trails open and flourishing mountain meadows. Long days give plenty of time. | Perfect conditions with dry trails and full operation in the bike park. High season for all types of cycling. |
| Autumn | September-October | Magical autumn colours and clear air. Fewer visitors bring peace and quiet. Cooler weather requires warmer clothes. | The bike park is usually open until mid-September. Beautiful autumn colours and firm ground. Perfect for XC cycling. |
| Winter | November-April | Snowshoeing becomes the alternative. Magical winter experiences with the right equipment. Shorter days require good planning. | Fat biking on snow is becoming increasingly popular. Specially prepared winter trails are available in some areas. |
Hiking and cycling in Sälen offer not only physical activity but also a chance to relax and reconnect with nature. After a day in the mountains, there is nothing better than gathering around a good meal and sharing the day's experiences. For companies looking for team building or for friends looking to make memories together, the Sälen mountains are the perfect setting.
Read more about Seasons in Sälen: Summer in Sälen - Discover the thriving mountain meadows and optimal cycling conditions during summer. Read more here, autumn in Sälen - Enjoy the magical autumn colours and tranquillity that the season offers. Read more here and Sälen all year round - Get a full picture of what the Sälen has to offer in all seasons. Find out more here.
Winter activities beyond skiing
Although Sälen is primarily known for its alpine skiing during the winter, there are many other ways to experience the mountains when the snow is deep. Snowshoeing is a fantastic option that allows you to explore quiet winter wonderlands at your own pace. For those looking for more speed and excitement, we also offer snowmobile safari in Sälen - an experience that combines nature experiences with adrenaline rushes.
Do you want to experience the mountains without skis there are many options. From leisurely walks on groomed winter roads to more adventurous activities like dog sledding or ice climbing, the Sälen has something for everyone, whatever the season.
Accommodation
Luxury accommodation as a base for your mountain adventure
After a day of hiking or cycling in the Sälen mountains, there's nothing better than coming home to a luxurious chalet where comfort and relaxation take centre stage. Our mountain houses offer the perfect combination of exclusivity and functionality:
- Spacious social areas with panoramic windows facing the mountains - perfect for communal dining and planning the next day's adventure
- Private spa areas with saunas and whirlpools for recovering tired muscles
- Well-equipped kitchens where you can prepare your own meals or have a private chef take care of the cooking
- Comfortable bedrooms with cosy beds to ensure a good night's sleep for the next day's activities
For larger parties and corporate groups, we offer specially customised solutions with the possibility of conference in Sälen in combination with outdoor activities. This is a perfect set-up for team building or strategy meetings where you want to combine effective work with inspiring nature experiences.
To make your stay as comfortable as possible, we offer several additional services such as cleaning, packed lunches, made beds and towels. We can also help you arrange transport, book guides or organise special events to celebrate special occasions. With us, your experience is always at the centre, and we do everything we can to exceed your expectations.
Would you like to find out more before your trip to the mountains? In our Knowledge Base for Sälen, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about the weather, trails and equipment, as well as tips for hiking and cycling in the mountains.
Book your mountain adventure now
Let us help you create the perfect combination of activity and luxury accommodation in Sälenfjällen.
What sort of accommodation is best suited to your mountain adventure?
We manage the properties and can combine them. The table shows what’s available during the summer season.
| Company | Outline | Guests | Bedroom | Location | A whole week | Sun–Thu | Thu–Sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Over 30 guests | Sälengodset + Fjällgodset + Winebunker combination | 51 | 22 | Gamla Sälfjällstangen | 6 June (16 dates) | 6 June (17 dates) | 3 June (17 dates) |
| 21–30 guests | Sälengodset + Fjällgodset combination | 43 | 19 | Gamla Sälfjällstangen | 6 June (16 dates) | 6 June (17 dates) | 3 June (17 dates) |
| Up to 24 | Gattarstugan | 24 | 11 | Tandådalen | 6 June (17 dates) | 6 June (17 dates) | 3 June (18 dates) |
| Up to 22 | Fjällgodset | 22 | 10 | Gamla Sälfjällstangen | 6 June (16 dates) | 6 June (17 dates) | 3 June (17 dates) |
| Up to 21 | Sälengodset | 21 | 9 | Gamla Sälfjällstangen | 6 June (17 dates) | 6 June (17 dates) | 3 June (18 dates) |
| Up to 21 | Olarslodgen | 21 | 8 | Sälfjällstorget | 6 June (17 dates) | 6 June (11 dates) | 3 June (12 dates) |
| Up to 15 | Stenlodgen | 15 | 5 | Sälfjällstorget | 6 June (17 dates) | 6 June (11 dates) | 3 June (12 dates) |
| Up to 12 | Villa Åsstigen | 12 | 5 | Gilleråsen | 6 June (17 dates) | Fully booked | Fully booked |
| Up to 10 | Winebunker | 8 | 3 | Gamla Sälfjällstangen | 6 June (17 dates) | 6 June (17 dates) | 3 June (18 dates) |
| Up to 8 | The Skiers Lodge | 8 | 4 | Lindvallen | 6 June (17 dates) | 6 June (17 dates) | 3 June (18 dates) |
The dates shown are the next available arrival dates; the figure in brackets indicates the number of available periods in the coming year. As we manage the properties ourselves, we can combine them, and the combinations are only shown when all properties are available at the same time. The information is updated automatically from our booking system.