To hike in Sälen is to experience the mountain world at its most generous. Here, dramatic peaks, gentle valleys and babbling brooks create the perfect arena for hiking in all its forms. The air is crystal clear, the views are vast and the trails are inviting - whether you're looking for a challenging day hike or a leisurely stroll among mountain birches and flower meadows.
Sälenfjällen offers a unique combination of accessibility and wilderness feel that makes the area perfect for both the experienced hiker and the family with young explorers. There are trails to suit everyone - from short, child-friendly paths to challenging summit hikes with breathtaking views. And at the end of the day, a warm and cosy cabin awaits where you can rest up for tomorrow's adventure.
Read more tips in our guide about SälenFjällen, filled with inspiration for outdoor activities all year round.
Whether you're an adventurous soul looking for a challenge, a family looking to make memories together, a couple longing for romantic views, or a senior citizen who appreciates well-marked trails, the Sälen has a hiking experience that's right for you. And with Sälengodset's comfortable cabins as a base, your mountain holiday will be a perfect combination of active days and relaxing evenings.
Sälen's most beautiful hiking trails - for beginners and experienced
Sälenhe mountains offer an impressive network of hiking trails that stretch over bare mountains, through cosy valleys and along historic paths. Here we present some of the best-loved trails to suit different levels of ambition and desire.
Vasaloppsleden - historic and scenic
Follow in historic ski tracks as you hike along parts of the iconic Vasalopps Trail. This trail offers a perfect combination of cultural history and nature experience. In summer, the classic ski track is transformed into an inviting hiking trail that takes you through beautiful pine forests, over bogs and along babbling brooks.
The trail is well marked and relatively easy to follow, making it ideal for families and beginners. Along the way there are several rest stops where you can sit down for a rest and a coffee with a view of the beautiful landscape.
High Mountain Trail - panoramic views and moorland
For those looking for marvellous views, Högfjällsleden is an obvious choice. This trail takes you from Högfjällshotellet up on the bare mountain where panoramic views of the entire Sälen mountains spread out. The trail is about 9 kilometres long and partly follows the Southern King's Trail with its characteristic red cross as a signpost.
Along the way you will pass Östfjällsstugan - a perfect place to take a break and enjoy the magnificent scenery. The difficulty level is medium, with some sections that can be wet after rain, so water-resistant shoes are recommended.
Tandådalen mountain area & Storfjället - dramatic mountain terrain
For those looking for more of a challenge, the Tandådalen mountain area and Storfjället offer some of Sälen's most dramatic hiking trails. The Storfjället tours cover 22-26 kilometres and take you through varied terrain from dense forest to open mountain expanses.
These trails are suitable for the experienced hiker who enjoys a full day's hike with a decent elevation gain. The reward is unrivalled views and the feeling of having conquered one of the Sälen's most impressive mountain massifs. Bring plenty of water and a packed lunch - this is a hike that requires good planning.
Kungsleden (seal segment) - iconic mountain experience in mini format
Södra Kungsleden, which passes through Sälenfjällen, offers a taste of Sweden's most famous hiking trail. This part of the trail is perfect for those who want to experience real mountain hiking without having to embark on a week-long expedition.
The stretch between Högfjället and Östfjället is particularly popular and offers a varied walk with both forest paths and open mountain sections. The trail is well marked with red crosses and is suitable for intermediate hikers. Allow around 3-4 hours for this stretch.
Hemfjällstigen & shorter day hikes - for leisurely walks with picnics
For families and those who prefer shorter trips, the area around Hemfjällsstugan perfect. There are several easily accessible trails that take you through beautiful mountain birch forest and across flowering meadows.
A popular route is the 5.6 kilometre walk between Sälfjällstangen and Stensjön, where you can admire the fascinating rock formations that children love to explore. These trails are perfect for a half-day excursion with a picnic in the open air.
Hundfjället Nature Reserve - flower meadows, lakes and views
Hundfjället Nature Reserve offers a more demanding hike for those looking for a challenge. The 12-kilometre Hundfjället trail takes you through old-growth forest and up to the summit of Hundfjället with fantastic views in all directions.
During the summer months, the mountainsides explode in colour as flower meadows spread out and small ponds sparkle in the sunlight. This trail requires good fitness and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. Please note that the trail markers can be difficult to follow in some places.
Fulufjället National Park & Njupeskär - Sweden's highest waterfall
A day trip from Sälen takes you to Fulufjället National Park where Sweden's highest waterfall, Njupeskär, is waiting to be discovered. The 93 metre high water cascade is a powerful sight that will reward you after a relatively easy hike through primeval forest.
The trail to the waterfall is about 4 kilometres round trip and is suitable for most hikers. There are also longer trails in the national park for those who want to explore more of this unique mountain area with its distinctive flora and fauna.
Extra: Grövelsjön round - for those who want to go a little further away
For those who don't mind driving a bit from Sälen, Grövelsjön awaits with its fantastic hiking trails. Here you will encounter a more untouched mountain landscape with wide open spaces and crystal clear lakes.
The trail around Grövelsjön is about 11 kilometres long and offers varied terrain and magnificent views. The area is known for its rich wildlife, so keep an eye out for reindeer and maybe even a mountain fox if you're lucky.
Tips for hiking in the mountains
A successful mountain hike starts with good planning. Here are some valuable tips to help you get the most out of your hiking experience in Sälen.
Packing & equipment
- Waterproof hiking boots with good grip
- Layered clothing (base, intermediate and outer layers)
- Rainwear - even if the weather looks good
- Map and compass (and knowledge of how to use them)
- Sufficient water and energy-rich food
- First aid kit and plasters
- Mobile phone with power bank
- Sunscreen, mosquito repellent and headgear
Right of public access & mountain etiquette
- You can roam freely in nature, but be considerate
- Camping is allowed for 1-2 nights in the same place (not near the house)
- Burning is allowed with great caution (check any burning bans)
- Take all rubbish home - leave no trace
- Respect wildlife and do not pick protected plants
- Close gates behind you and do not cross cultivated land
- Keep your dog on a lead in the mountains (1 March-20 August)
Safety in the mountains
Mountain weather can change quickly. Always check weather forecasts before setting out and be prepared for weather changes. Always inform someone of your planned route and expected return. In case of emergency, call 112.
Combine hiking with luxury accommodation in Sälen
After a day in the mountains, there's nothing better than returning to a warm and comfortable cabin where you can rest, enjoy good food and recharge for the next day's adventure.
Sälengodset cabins - perfect base for hikers
Our exclusive cottages offer the perfect combination of luxury and proximity to nature. Strategically located near Sälen's best hiking trails, you can easily switch between adventure and relaxation. Each cabin is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, from fully equipped kitchens to cosy living areas where you can gather and share the day's experiences.
Relaxing after a day's walk
How about sinking into a bubbling outdoor jacuzzi overlooking the mountains after a long day on the hiking trails? Or perhaps a relaxing sauna to soothe tired muscles? Our cabins offer luxurious spa facilities making your mountain holiday the perfect combination of activity and much-needed relaxation.
Suitable for all parties
Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic mountain weekend, a family on a summer holiday or a large group of friends wanting to experience the mountains together, we have cottages to suit your needs. Our largest cabins can accommodate up to 20 people, perfect for family reunions or groups of friends who want to combine hiking with quality time together. Find out more about events in Sälen
Sustainable mountain holidays
For those who value environmentally conscious choices, we offer cottages with charging stations for electric cars. Combine your hiking holiday with climate-smart accommodation and enjoy the pristine nature of the mountains with a clear conscience. Our cabins are built with a focus on energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
Book your walking holiday in Sälen
Whether you're planning an active summer weekend, a relaxing autumn holiday week when the mountains turn gold and red, or a longer summer holiday with the family, Sälengodset's cottages are the perfect base for your mountain adventures.
Frequently asked questions about hiking in Sälen
Can you walk in Sälen with children?
Absolutely! Sälen offers several child-friendly hiking trails that are suitable for even the smallest legs. Try shorter hikes like Hemfjällstigen or take the chairlift up the mountain and hike down. Many trails have exciting features such as rock formations at Stensjön or streams to jump over, making the hike an adventure for the whole family. Read more about Sälen with children
Where does the Vasaloppsleden trail start and how long is it?
The Vasaloppsleden trail starts in Sälen and stretches 90 kilometres to Mora. You don't have to walk the whole distance - many people choose to walk shorter stages. Popular starting points are Berga by or Sälen Gammelgården. The trail is well marked and follows more or less the same route as the classic ski race. Find out more about vasaloppet.
Do you need a map or is there GPS coverage in Sälenfjällen?
The mobile phone network has good coverage in large parts of the Sälen mountains, but it is always wise to have a physical map and compass as a backup. The Sälen-Idre mountain map (scale 1:50,000) covers the whole area. There are also apps like Naturkartan where you can download maps for offline use before heading out.
Can you combine hiking with other activities in Sälen?
Yes, Sälen offers many opportunities to combine hiking with other activities. Try mountain biking on one of the landscaped trails, fish in the mountain lakes (fishing licence required), canoe along Västerdalälven or visit Experium for indoor activities if the weather is not so good. During the summer there are also several events organised that may be worth planning your trip around. Find out more about experiences and adventures in Sälen.
When is the best time for hiking in Sälen?
The high season for hiking in Sälen is July-August, when the weather is most stable and the trails are dry. June can offer flowering mountain meadows but also wetter trails after the snow melts. September-October offers beautiful autumn colours and less crowding on the trails, but expect colder weather. Some trails are also accessible in winter for snowshoeing. Read more in Sälen all year round and summer in Sälen.
Discover Sälen's magical mountain world on foot
To hike in Sälen is to experience the Swedish mountain world from its most accessible and varied side. There's something for everyone - from the adventurous mountaineer to the family looking for simple nature experiences together. With well-marked trails, magnificent views and comfortable facilities along the way, Sälen is the perfect choice for your next hiking experience. Read more in explore Sälen.
And when the day on the mountain is over, there's nothing better than returning to a warm and luxurious cabin where you can rest, reflect on the day's experiences and recharge for tomorrow's adventures. With the Sälengodset's exclusive accommodation As a base, you'll get the best of both worlds - the splendour of nature and comfortable luxury.
Ready to plan your hiking experience in Sälen?
Contact us to find the perfect cabin for your mountain holiday. We will be happy to help you with tips on hiking trails and other activities that suit your group.
Hiking in Sälen is more than exercise - it's a chance to experience the mountains for real. Whether you follow Vasalopps Trail, taking a break at Hemfjällsstgan or discovers Sälen Botanical Garden, the silence and freedom of the mountains await around every bend. At the end of the day, our exclusive mountain cabins in Sälen ready for rest, with sauna, view and everything that belongs to a luxurious mountain stay.
Walk, savour and experience - in the Sälen, every step is part of the experience.