Yes, they are. In the Sälen mountains there is plenty of wildlife all year round - moose, roe deer, fox, hare, beaver and sometimes reindeer - as well as a rich bird life with capercaillie, black grouse, ptarmigan and birds of prey such as golden eagles. The best chances are at dawn/dusk, on mountain heaths, at the edge of forests and along rivers and marshes.
Animals in mountain forests and river valleys
Sälen offers truly mountain wildlife experiences without you having to travel far into the wilderness. In the forest belt around Lindvallen, Högfjället, Tandådalen and Hundfjället, moose, roe deer and foxes move around daily, while beavers like the quieter parts of rivers and lakes. Higher up on the moors and in the transition to the birch zone, you may encounter ptarmigan, mountain hare and traces of fox or lynx - and if you're lucky you may see golden eagles sailing along the edge of the mountain. During certain periods, reindeer also pass over the mountain; always keep a respectful distance from reindeer and any reindeer herders. You can find more about the terrain under Explore Sälen.
Birdlife and best times for observation
Birdlife is a highlight. Spring and early summer offer playing capercaillie and black grouse (best experienced at a distance with binoculars), heath pipits and other marsh birds on the mountain heath, as well as kittiwakes in the mountain birch forest. In summer, waders thrive on the moors and lakeshores, while late summer and early autumn offer the chance to spot birds of prey during clear high pressure. Winter is quieter, but the tracks in the snow reveal who has been out: hares, foxes, woodland birds and sometimes otters along waterways. For more nature tips, see guided nature experiences in Sälen.
Beaver, grouse & moose - where and when
Want to maximise your chances? Aim for dawn or dusk when the animals are most active. Mountain heaths around Östfjället and Storfjället Nature Reserve, quiet marshlands and shorelines, and calm forest edges near cross-country trails (e.g. around Myrflodammen) usually deliver. Along stretches of river you can look for beavers in the evening - watch for gnaw marks on aspens and fresh ponds. If you're planning an outing with children, winter ”track safaris” are an easy adventure: identify hoof prints (moose/deer), paw prints (fox/lion/dog), small ”jumping ladders” (hare) and grouse wing prints in fresh snow. Read also about Cross-country tracks in Sälen where the tracks are often lined with exciting wildlife.
Seasonal variations
Times of year make a difference. Spring is intense with birdsong and woodland birds at play; summer offers long bright evenings, easy walking and a good chance of beavers; autumn is golden for moose spotting during the rut and for birds of prey in clear air; winter offers fewer sightings but clearer tracks and the chance of grouse in white winter plumage. Bear in mind that hunting takes place during parts of autumn - wear reflective/clear colours and stick to trails. More inspiration on the seasons can be found at Sälen all year round.
Equipment & etiquette for animal tracking
Equipment and etiquette are simple but important. Bring binoculars (8-10x), a camera with a telephoto lens (200-400 mm goes a long way), a thermos, and a mat. Move quietly, walk upwind if you can, and stop for a while-much of wildlife watching is about patience. Never feed wild animals, don't use drones in protected areas, and keep dogs on leads (in many reserves all year round; generally extra strict 1/3-20/8). Leave no trace: rubbish, burning and trampling over sensitive mires are hard on mountain nature.
Guided experience in nature
For a safe first experience, guided tours can be worthwhile - local guides know wind directions, ”hot” glades and how to read signs in the terrain. Family-friendly options include a beaver safari at dusk or short bird-watching tours with binoculars and coffee. If you're travelling in winter, a short evening walk with a head torch along a river or moor can be magical: when all is quiet, you'll hear the splash of beavers or the rustle of snow long before you see anything. Read more about family activities and Adventures in Sälen suitable for nature lovers.
Summary & related tips
Overall: yes, wildlife in Sälen is both accessible and diverse. Choose the right time of day, move slowly in the transition between forest and mountain, follow the reserve rules and let the silence work for you - and the chances of your mountain day being joined by a moose on the edge of the forest, a grouse on the edge of a snowdrift or the silhouette of an eagle against a blue sky will increase considerably.
Explore more nature experiences during Guided tours & nature or learn more about hiking in Sälen. Combine your stay with accommodation in Sälen or relaxation in Relax & Spa after a day out in the mountains.