The Padjelanta Trail
Padjelanta can be translated into the higher land. Despite the name, it is much more lowland than Sarek. The rounded mountains, mountain moors and large lakes result in a greenish-blue landscape that is often described as contemplative.
The 160-kilometre Padjelanta Trail is suitable even for less experienced hikers. There is an abundance of overnight huts and few difficult sections. But count on 10 days of hiking for the entire trail.
In the south, the trail starts at Kvikkjokk Mountain Station. You walk along the southern border of Sarek through Tarradalen valley, with its pine-forest followed by birchwood and lush meadows. The elk are abundant and big. At Tarraluoppal, you enter the national park and the vast, soft landscape that many associate Padjelanta with. Large lakes lie to the west and Sarek’s jagged peaks to the east.
Staloluokta, with its tourist station, shop and Sami camp, will be a natural stopover. Even the helicopter between Kvikkjokk and Ritsem lands here. To the north, you pass several Sami camps, beautifully situated near to lakes and rivers. Take the opportunity and purchase some smoked fish.
Mountain huts in the Tarradalen valley and at Lake Akkajaure are run by STF, while huts in the national park are run by the Sami villages. The trail ends at STF Akka and Änonjalmes Sami camp. You can reach Ritsem by boat, which can also be the hike’s starting point.
