Sweden — Jokkmokk
Sarek National Park Trail: Sweden's ultimate wilderness trek. This 105km, 7-10 day route through the Arctic Circle's high alpine landscape is extremely challenging, offering a raw, untamed experience. Expect glacial rivers, rugged terrain, and vast panoramas in Europe's last true wild expanse. No marked paths, no cabins – just pure, remote adventure.
Distance: 105.0 km
Elevation Gain: 3000 m
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Duration: 7-10 days
Sarek National Park is often described as the "Last Wilderness of Europe," a title it earns through its sheer isolation, lack of infrastructure, and raw, untamed beauty. Located in the far north of Swedish Lapland, within the Arctic Circle, Sarek is a high-alpine landscape that remains largely untouched by modern development. Unlike most national parks, Sarek has no marked trails, no cabins for overnight stays within its interior, and very few bridges over its powerful glacial rivers. A trek through Sarek is not merely a hike; it is an expedition that demands self-sufficiency, advanced navigation skills, and a deep respect for the unpredictable forces of nature. Spanning approximately 105 kilometres depending on the chosen route, this journey takes trekkers through deep U-shaped valleys, past massive glaciers, and beneath some of Sweden's highest and most jagged peaks.
The park is part of the Laponian Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site that recognises both its unique natural values and its profound cultural significance to the Sami people, who have herded reindeer in these mountains for millennia. For the modern adventurer, Sarek offers a rare opportunity to experience a landscape where the human footprint is almost invisible. There are no signposts to guide you, no mobile phone reception to call for help, and no easy exits. It is a place where the rhythm of the day is dictated by the weather and the terrain, offering a profound sense of solitude and a connection to the earth that is increasingly difficult to find in the 21st century. This is a trek for those who seek to test their limits in one of the most spectacular and demanding environments on the planet.
Sarek National Park is a bastion of high-alpine wilderness, covering 1,970 square kilometres of rugged terrain. It is defined by its "Big Six"—the six peaks in Sweden that exceed 2,000 metres in height, all of which are found within or on the borders of the park. The landscape is a dramatic tapestry of nearly 100 glaciers, narrow valleys, and turbulent rivers fed by meltwater. The most iconic of these is the Rapadalen (Rapa Valley), a 35-kilometre-long glacial trough that features the spectacular Rapa River delta, where the water winds through a mosaic of silt deposits and lush vegetation, creating one of the most photographed natural features in Scandinavia.
The experience of trekking in Sarek is fundamentally different from hiking on the Kungsleden (King's Trail) or other established European routes. In Sarek, the "trail" is often nothing more than a faint reindeer path that disappears into a boulder field or a dense thicket of willow scrub. Progress is measured not just in kilometres, but in the successful negotiation of obstacles. A single river crossing can take hours of scouting to find a safe passage, and a sudden Arctic storm can pin a group in their tents for days. This lack of infrastructure is intentional; the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency maintains Sarek as a wilderness area where nature is allowed to take its course with minimal human interference.
The flora and fauna of Sarek are equally impressive. The lower valleys are home to ancient birch forests and lush meadows that support a variety of wildlife, including the "Sarek Giants"—exceptionally large moose (elk) that are known for their lack of fear toward humans due to the absence of hunting. You may also encounter reindeer, golden eagles, and, if you are extremely lucky, the elusive wolverine or lynx. The geological history of the park is written in its stones; the deep valleys were carved by massive ice sheets during the last ice age, leaving behind a landscape of staggering scale. To walk through Sarek is to step back in time, experiencing the world as it was before the advent of roads and permanent settlements.
Because there are no fixed itineraries, every trekker's experience is unique. Whether you choose to follow the high plateaus for panoramic views or navigate the lush, challenging valley floors, Sarek requires a level of preparation and mental fortitude that few other trails demand. It is a place of immense silence, broken only by the roar of waterfalls and the whistling of the wind through the crags. For those prepared for its challenges, Sarek offers a reward that is commensurate with its difficulty: a sense of true freedom in one of the world's last great wild places.
The history of Sarek is inextricably linked to the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of northern Scandinavia. For thousands of years, the Sami have lived in harmony with this harsh environment, following the seasonal migrations of reindeer. Sarek is not an empty wilderness to the Sami; it is a cultural landscape filled with names, stories, and sacred sites. The park remains an active reindeer herding area, and trekkers will often see reindeer grazing on the high slopes or find the remains of traditional Sami hearths and storage pits. The respect for this living culture is a cornerstone of visiting Sarek; hikers are guests in a land that has provided sustenance and spiritual meaning to the Sami for generations.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sarek began to attract the attention of European scientists and explorers. The most prominent figure in Sarek's modern history is Axel Hamberg, a Swedish professor of geography and geology. Starting in 1895, Hamberg spent over 30 years studying the park's glaciers, climate, and geology. He established several small research stations (some of which still stand as historical relics) and produced the first detailed maps of the region. Hamberg’s work was instrumental in the establishment of Sarek as one of Europe's first national parks in 1909. His dedication to the area helped preserve it from the hydroelectric developments that transformed many other Swedish mountain valleys during the 20th century.
In 1996, Sarek was included in the Laponia World Heritage site, a designation that covers 9,400 square kilometres and includes three other national parks and two nature reserves. This UNESCO status recognises Laponia as the largest area in the world with an ancestral way of life based on the seasonal movement of livestock. Today, Sarek stands as a symbol of conservation, balancing the protection of a unique ecosystem with the continued traditional use of the land by the Sami. The history of the park is a reminder that wilderness is not just a lack of people, but a specific relationship between humans and the natural world—one based on endurance, adaptation, and profound respect.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
The window for trekking in Sarek is narrow, dictated by the extreme Arctic climate. The summer season typically runs from early July to mid-September. Outside of this period, Sarek is a world of ice and snow, accessible only to experienced winter expeditioners with specialised equipment and skills.
July: This is the month of the Midnight Sun, where the sun never fully sets, providing 24 hours of daylight for trekking. The landscape is vibrant and green, and the wildflowers are in full bloom. However, July is also the peak season for mosquitoes and biting midges, which can be relentless in the lower, boggy valleys. Snow patches may still linger on high passes, and river levels are often at their highest due to the late snowmelt, making crossings particularly hazardous.
August: Often considered the best month for Sarek, August sees a decrease in insect activity and more stable river levels. The days remain long, though the sun begins to dip below the horizon for a few hours each night. The weather can still be highly unpredictable, with sudden shifts from warm sunshine to freezing rain. Towards the end of August, the first hints of autumn appear as the dwarf birch and willow begin to turn gold.
September: This is the season of "Ruska," the spectacular autumn colour change. The tundra turns shades of brilliant red, orange, and gold, and the air becomes crisp and clear. The mosquitoes are gone, and the first dustings of new snow may appear on the peaks. September also brings the return of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) as the nights grow longer. However, the weather becomes significantly more volatile, with a higher risk of autumn storms and sub-zero temperatures. Most boat transfers (essential for accessing the park) cease operations by the third week of September.
Regardless of the month, weather in Sarek is notoriously fickle. The park acts as a "weather hole," where systems from the Atlantic and the Arctic collide. It is common to experience four seasons in a single day. High winds are a constant threat, and horizontal rain can soak even the best gear. Trekkers must be prepared for the reality that they may spend 24 to 48 hours confined to their tent waiting for a storm to pass. Flexibility is the most important piece of equipment you can bring to Sarek.
Day 1: Aktse to the Skierfe Massif
Day 2: Skierfe to the Central Rapa Valley (Rapadalen)
Day 3: Rapadalen to Skårki
Day 4: Skårki to Pielaslätten
Day 5: Pielaslätten to Guhkesvagge
Day 6: Guhkesvagge to Nijak
Day 7: Nijak to Kisuris
Day 8: Kisuris to Akka and Ritsem
Important Notes:
Planning a trip to Sarek is a significant undertaking that should begin months in advance. Because there are no marked trails or huts, your primary preparation must focus on two areas: navigation and physical conditioning. You must be proficient in reading topographic maps and using a compass, as GPS devices can fail in the deep valleys or due to battery exhaustion in the cold. Physical fitness is paramount; you will be carrying a heavy pack (typically 18–25 kg) over uneven, trackless terrain, including bogs, boulder fields, and thick scrub.
Logistically, the gateway to Sarek is the town of Jokkmokk. From here, you can access the various trailheads via bus and boat. Most trekkers arrive in the region via the night train from Stockholm to Gällivare or Murjek, followed by a bus. Coordination of boat transfers is critical; many of the entry points, such as Aktse or the crossing of Lake Akkajaure, rely on seasonal boat services operated by local Sami families or the STF. Check the latest timetables on the Laponia or STF websites, as these can change based on water levels and weather.
Within the boundaries of Sarek National Park, there is no formal accommodation. There are no huts, no shelters, and no designated campsites. You are required to wild camp for the duration of your time inside the park.
Camping in Sarek:
Border Huts (STF):
One of the unique aspects of Sarek National Park is that no permits are required for entry, trekking, or camping. Under the Swedish "Allemansrätten" (Right of Public Access), you are free to roam the landscape. However, this freedom comes with a high level of responsibility. While there is no formal registration, it is strongly advised to leave your planned route and expected return date with a friend, family member, or the mountain safety information centre in Jokkmokk.
Logistical Costs and Considerations:
Regulations:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Sarek National Park Trail (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Sarek National Park Trail, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The region surrounding Sarek offers a wealth of cultural and natural experiences that can complement your trek:
River Crossings: This is the single greatest hazard in Sarek. Glacial rivers are cold, opaque (making it hard to judge depth), and extremely powerful. The Golden Rule: If the water is above your knees and moving fast, do not cross. Always unbuckle your backpack's waist and chest straps before crossing so you can jettison the pack if you fall. Cross diagonally downstream, using trekking poles for a "tripod" of stability. If a river looks too dangerous, wait until early morning when meltwater levels are lowest, or hike upstream to find a braided section where the water is spread over a wider area.
Navigation and Isolation: Sarek has no mobile phone coverage. If you have an accident, you cannot call for help. A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger (inReach) is non-negotiable. Fog and low clouds can descend in minutes, reducing visibility to a few metres. You must be able to navigate using only your compass and map in "whiteout" conditions. If you lose your way, stay put and wait for the weather to clear rather than wandering into dangerous terrain.
Hypothermia: Even in July, temperatures can drop to near freezing during storms. Wet clothing combined with wind chill is a recipe for hypothermia. Always keep a set of dry "emergency" clothes in a waterproof dry bag inside your pack. Recognise the early signs of hypothermia (the "umbles": stumbling, mumbling, fumbling) in yourself and your partners.
Wildlife: While moose and reindeer are generally harmless, they are large animals and should be given plenty of space. Sarek is also home to brown bears. While encounters are rare, store your food securely and make noise when moving through dense brush to avoid surprising a bear.
Emergency Services: Mountain Rescue (Fjällräddningen) is coordinated by the Swedish Police. However, response times in Sarek can be measured in days, not hours, depending on weather conditions. You must be prepared to manage any medical emergency yourself for an extended period.
The Summit of Skierfe: While technically on the border of the park, no trip to Sarek is complete without standing on the summit of Skierfe. The view of the Rapa River delta from 700 metres above is widely considered the most beautiful in Sweden. The climb is straightforward from the Aktse side but requires a clear day to truly appreciate the scale of the landscape.
The Rapa Delta (Laitaure): Navigating the delta itself is nearly impossible on foot, but the area where the river enters Lake Laitaure is a haven for birdlife and moose. If you can arrange a boat drop-off further up the delta, you can save a day of bushwhacking through the "jungle" of the lower valley.
Sarektjåkkå Massif: For experienced mountaineers, the peaks of the Sarek massif offer challenging climbs and stunning glacial views. Stortoppen (2,089 m) is the highest point in the park. These climbs require technical gear (crampons, ice axe, ropes) and should not be attempted by those without alpine experience.
The "Predator Square": The area around the confluence of the Sarvesvagge and Rapadalen valleys is known for its high concentration of wildlife. It is one of the best places in the park to spot bears, wolverines, and the massive Sarek moose. Spending an extra day here with binoculars can be incredibly rewarding.
Alkavare Chapel: A small, lonely stone chapel located near the border of Sarek and Padjelanta. Built in the 18th century to serve the Sami and the miners at a nearby silver mine, it is a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the human history in this remote region. A service is still held here once a year in summer.
Sarek is a pristine environment, and its continued preservation depends entirely on the behaviour of its visitors. The "Leave No Trace" principles are not just guidelines here; they are essential for the survival of this fragile Arctic ecosystem.
Specific Sarek LNT Guidelines:
