Hiking and cycling in Sälen - nature experiences in the bosom of the mountains

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 a growing network of cycle paths, there's something for everyone - from families with children looking for easy access to nature to experienced hikers and mountain bikers. And at the end of the day, our exclusive cabins in Sälen await, where a sauna, hot tub and panoramic views will re-energise you for the next stage.

Discover more tips in our guide to experiences in Sälen for both summer and winter.

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.

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.

Read more about Sälenfjällen here.

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.

To hike in Sälen is to experience the Swedish mountains at their most accessible. There's everything from short walks to challenging day hikes, each with its own character and charm. Whether you're looking for flourishing mountain meadows, enchanting forests or marvellous views from the bare mountains, there's a trail to suit your needs. Below we share our top tips to help you get the most out of your hiking experience in the Sälen mountains.

Read more about weather in Sälen

For families with children or beginners in mountain hiking, we highly recommend Trollstigen at Lindvallen. This 3 kilometre loop takes you through an enchanting forest with exciting features suitable for children - see if you can find all the little trolls hiding along the way! The trail has a firm surface and only moderate height differences, making it perfect for little legs. At Gubbmyren there is also a nice 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.

Read more about Adventure Pool and Spa at Experium

For those looking for more of a challenge, we recommend the trail up to Hemfjällstangen. This 12-kilometre hike takes you up the bare mountain where the views of the Sälen mountains and the Norwegian border are spectacular. The hike requires good fitness as the altitude difference is almost 500 metres, but the reward of wonderful views is well worth the effort. Bring plenty of water and an energising packed lunch - there's plenty of room at the summit for a restorative 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.

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.

Read more about guided tours in the seal

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 has quickly become a must for Sweden's mountain bike enthusiasts. With over 25 kilometres of purpose-built trails spread across 15 different courses, there is something for all levels. Beginners can safely start on the green trails that offer a gentle introduction to the sport, while more experienced riders can challenge themselves on the blue, red and black trails with 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.

Read more about Sälen Bike Park

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.

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? 

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 the seal - Enjoy the magical autumn colours and tranquillity that the season offers. Read more here and seals all year round - Get a full picture of what the Sälen has to offer in all seasons. Find out more here.

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.

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:

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.

Want to know more before your trip to the mountains? In our Knowledge base on Sälen you will find answers to frequently asked questions about weather, trails, equipment and tips for hiking and cycling in the mountains.