Väggen in Sälen is one of Sweden's most talked-about ski slopes - steep, powerful and mythical. Located in Hundfjället, it is known as one of the steepest groomed slopes in the country. Many first-time visitors to the mountains wonder: what exactly is Väggen, how steep is it and who should ski it?
The slope has become a signature feature of Sälen and a rite of passage for skilful skiers. Those who want to understand the area around Väggen more comprehensively can start with the hub side Hundfjället, where you get the full context of the terrain, the lift system and the character of the area.
In this FAQ, we go over the history, difficulty, safety, tips for riding, and nearby options for those who don't want to descend Väggen but still want to experience Hundfjället's unique environment.
How steep is the Wall – and what makes it so special?
Väggen is known as one of Sweden's steepest pistes, with gradients of up to 45 degrees in the steepest sections. When it is hard-prepared, it is often experienced as even steeper. The slope is classified as difficult/black, even for experienced skiers.
What makes the Väggen unique is the combination of:
Extreme gradient
Long, unbroken fall line
Exposed position
Rapid snow transformation due to weather
A psychological element - it looks steep from the top
If you want to see how Hundfjället is organised in general - including Trollskogen, family areas and other slopes - read more at Hundfjället.
Who is the Wall suitable for?
The Väggen is not a slope for everyone. It is suitable for:
Very experienced skiers
Skiers who have mastered black runs
People with good fitness and good technique
Those who want a technically challenging experience
Väggen is not suitable for:
Beginners
Unsafe drivers
Children
Riders not handling icy or hard surfaces
If you're travelling with mixed levels, you'll find great family areas near Väggen, especially Trollskogen. Find out more about children's activities at Family activities and child-friendly areas in Sälen with children.
How does The Wall differ from other slopes in Sälen?
Sälen is known to be one of Sweden's most beginner-friendly mountains - but Väggen is the opposite. It stands out by being:
Steeper
Shaver
More technical
Often harder in the substrate
Sometimes closed in difficult conditions
The biggest contrast can be found between Väggen and the wide, gentle slopes of Lindvallen. If you want to understand the differences between areas in general, read on:
Lindvallen
Högfjället
Tandådalen
For adults who love technical challenges, it is often Väggen and other steeper slopes at Hundfjäll that are the most appealing.
What conditions are best for skiing the Wall?
The Väggen is at its best when the surface is:
Soft but stable
Freshly prepared
Not icy top to bottom
Windless
It is common for the Väggen to become icy in the afternoon, especially during high winds or large temperature changes. If you want the best possible experience, you should:
Go to the Wall in the morning
Professional skiers and experienced guides recommend tackling the Wall early in the day, preferably right after opening.
Avoid the hill in bad weather
In the event of snow, ice or strong winds, the slope can become considerably more challenging.
Study the slope before you ski
Take a walk past the top and look down - it will help you decide if the conditions are suitable for your level.
If you want to combine Väggen with more nature-based experiences, nearby options include Guided nature tours or snowmobile safari via Scooter safari.
Are there alternatives to The Wall for those who want a challenge?
Yes - Hundfjället and Tandådalen offer several slopes that are challenging without reaching Väggen level. For those who want to develop in technically more difficult environments but do not take the steepest way down, it is recommended:
Steep red slopes in Tandådalen
Forest skiing where the surface is softer
Slopes with longer length but more even gradient
To see the full range of piste levels in the area, visit Sälens ski resorts.
Safety – what should you consider before climbing the Wall?
Safety should always be the top priority. Here are some important tips:
1. Ensure that you can stop quickly and in a controlled manner
On such a steep slope, you can quickly pick up speed.
2. Never ride the Wall if you feel unsure.
The psychological pressure can be just as great as the technical pressure.
3. Check the weather and ground conditions
Rapid temperature changes make the Wall particularly demanding.
4. Travel with someone who has experience
It is both safe and stimulating.
5. Respect closures
The wall is sometimes closed for safety reasons – follow the recommendations.
Summary – who should choose to go to Väggen?
You should choose Väggen if you:
Is very experienced
Has good technology
Loves adrenaline and steep drop lines
Want to try an iconic Swedish ski experience
You should choose an option if you:
I am a beginner
Unsafe on black slopes
Prefer softer and wider slopes
Sälen has great pistes for all levels, and whether you ski Väggen or not, you can stay exclusively and close to Hundfjället in our chalets. Explore the options here:
Our different types of accommodation in Sälen