The Vindelfjällen mountains

The Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve is a microcosm of the Lapland alpine region offering breathtaking features such as the alpine massif Norra Storfjället, U-shaped valleys, mountain heaths and waterfalls. The lower elevations treat visitors to alpine birch forests, marshes profuse with bird life, lakes rich in fish and fascinating Sami villages.

Even the Arctic fox shows up here to welcome you to its native habitat. Plans are in the works to make the area into a national park.

The renowned Kungsleden hiking trail forms a diagonal line through the most interesting stretch between Ammarnäs and Hemavan. An STF mountain station is located at the end of each day’s march. The first day of the hike up to STF Aigert is a rather demanding climb beckoning the most daring among mountaineers. For a somewhat easier challenge, a boat can take you to Servestugan situated across Lake Tjulträsk located west of Ammarnäs.

You will pass by the second-highest mountain pass along the entire length of Kungsleden as you take in majestic views of Ammarfjället. Tärnasjön draws in bird-watchers and fishermen. Continue on to the south end where you can then walk across the small Tärnasjö archipelago on footbridges. The trail then continues through birch forests which often open up onto beautiful vistas.

The U-shaped Vitarskalet is known locally as Södra Lapporten. Rising into view next to the Viterskalet is Norra Sytertopen, which at 1,766 metres is the highest peak in the Vindelfjällen region. The hiking trail ends with a long slope downward toward Hemavan, the southern end of Kungsleden. Here, like in Ammarnäs, STF has set up youth hostels offering good advice, tasty cuisine and comfortable overnight accommodation.