Yes, autumn in Sälenfjällen is something special. The mountains are dressed in gold, red and copper, the air is crisp and prices are lower than in winter. It's perfect for hiking, cycling, fishing, berry and mushroom picking, photo adventures and slow evenings with sauna and fire. Anyone who discovers autumn in Sälen usually quickly wants to come back.
Colours, light and silence
When the summer mosquitoes have retreated and before the first snow falls, you get a calmer and more peaceful experience. The mountains glow in autumn colours, mists dance over the moors in the morning and the evenings offer clear starry skies. The same magnificent landscape as in winter, but without lift queues and crowds - and with a colour palette that makes every walk a postcard.
Hiking and nature experiences
Autumn is hiking time in Sälen. From Högfjället and Hemfjället you can easily reach bare mountains with wide views without steep climbs. Here you can choose short tours or full-day hikes with a thermos and a mat. If you want a symbolic start to your journey, you can hike the first stage of The King's Road from Sälen - a classic on a small scale. For families, this is a favourite time of year: dry trails, fresh air and the chance of blueberries and mushrooms along the way. Combine with tips from summer bathing sites or stop at the mountain lakes for a coffee and photo break.
Cycling and autumn active days
Cycling often continues well into September. In Lindvallen there are flowing trails and Sälen Bike Park with technical surfaces, and in Rörbäcksnäs, natural trails await in a quiet forest. Electric MTBs make longer tours possible even for mixed groups. Just check which lifts and trails are open - it varies between weekends. Less people on the trails means more freedom and better flow.
Fishing, berries and mushrooms
The mountain waters offer trout, grayling and char. Buy a fishing licence locally and take an evening stroll by the river or a quiet pond. In the forest, blueberries and lingonberries await in August-September and chanterelles in glades along the paths. There's something special about coming home to the cottage, lighting the fire and letting the smell of butter-fried chanterelles spread. Want extra comfort? Let a private chef refining the day's catch for dinner in the cabin.
Accommodation and relaxation
Autumn is the low season - which means bigger mountain houses at better prices. Accommodation that Fjällgodset, Sälengodset and Olarslodgen offers a sauna, jacuzzi and fireplace, perfect after a day out. If you want a hotel feel in the cottage, you can order breakfast delivery or catering for the evening. For businesses, autumn is also ideal for retreats and workshops - peaceful environment and inspiring nature.
Practical tips
Aim for early September to mid-October for the most colour. Pack in layers: down jacket, rain shell, hat and water-resistant shoes. The days are getting shorter, so plan your routes and bring a head torch. Have a car if you want to move around freely - buses are less frequent, but the roads are quiet. Watch out for morning frost and weather changes, especially if you drive an electric car where to find charging points close to all mountain areas.
Executive summary
Yes - Sälen is definitely worth a visit in autumn. You get the same great outdoors, but with a slower pace, warmer colours and time for reflection. It's the season for nature, enjoyment and tranquillity - a chance to recharge before winter sets in.