It’s easy to take long or short hikes with small kids if you have the right strategy. But, to make it a little easier we recommend seven trails that are usually a hit for small explorers.

Trollstigen

Ascent: 163 m | Length: 1.3 km one way

An exciting trip for both the young and older where you’ll step into Åre’s mythical world through the rainbow Bifrost. Hiding along the path are troll and goblins so keep your eyes open. Some hide in the roots of trees and others turn into rocks during the daytime. Parts of Åredalen’s sagas and tales are written on signs along the way, like the story of The Giant Ruth in Skut and her battle with the Giant Jätt in Spett.

The path goes from Åre Square, winds upwards, shielded from the woods and follows the upper part of the roaring Mörviksån to Fjällgården. For an easier trip, take the funicular up and walk down to Åre Square instead.

To get there: Follow Trail 212 from Åre Square or in the opposite direction from Fjällgården. The discovery part of the trail is from Vakthögen just east of the VM6an, making your start or finish to the trail at the Cable Car optional. 

Nalleklippan

Ascent: 85 m | Length: about 1.2 km round trip

A short hike, about 600 meters with a slight climb at the end that leads to one of Åre’s best viewpoints – Nalleklippan. The path goes from Hotell Fjällgården, across Tottbacken’s greenery and further up into Totthummeln’s forest. When you arrive at Nalleklippan, there’s a grill area perfect for a BBQ. If not, it’s a great spot to stop and enjoy a packed lunch and view over Åre. With a keen eye, you can even see the tower at Duved’s Church and Tegeforsen at the beginning of Lake Åresjön.

To get there: The easiest way to get to Nalleklippan is via Hotell Fjällgården. Follow Trail 213 towards Totthummeln. When it divides – keep left (clockwise). After a few hundred meters, you’ll see the “Nalleklippan” sign.

Björnlandet

Ascent: 170 m | Length: about 1.4 km one way

An experience hike for the smallest hikers through Björnlandet with all its wooden bear characters. The trail starts at the Nalleliften valley station and then goes uphill. About half way (after about 1 km) you reach the barbecue area. You either stop there or continue all the way up to the top.

To get there: The trail is called 220 and runs from Carins Krog in Björnen to Järvenliften’s mountain station.

Mt. Åreskutan’s Peak

Ascent: 146 m | Length: 2 km one way

A little more weather sensitive adventure that’ll give you the sensation of being on top of the world. Visit Toppstugan – Sweden’s highest café and enjoy some crispy homemade waffles. The trail leads up the mountain with wide paths.

To get there: Follow Trail 214b from the Cable Car and Gondola Mountain Stations up to the top of Mt. Åreskutan.

Byxtjärn

Ascent: 140 m | Length: 2.15 km one way

The tour is mostly uphill approximately two kilometres one way. The trail to Byxtjärn is quite well-used to and from Fröå Gruva, so the trail is wide making it easy to walk beside each other along the way. Some parts are wet (especially at the end) so it’s a good idea to wear rubber boots if it’s been raining. Otherwise, you can try jumping around the wet patches.

When water starts to pass through the mountain birch trees, you’re halfway. A beautiful view, barbecue area (bring firewood with you) and rocks to sit on. Take off your shoes and socks and test the water temperature. The way back is downhill and easy after a good coffee and snack break.

To get there: Follow Trail 221 west from Fröå Gruva towards Mt. Åreskutan. The first bit is gravel, then the trail continues onto a wide forest trail. Trail 221 then leads to Lillådammen and passes south of Byxtjärn so one tip is to take the right where Trail 221 starts to climb uphill. It’s pretty straight forward after that but, should you wind up on the south side of Byxtjärn just follow the beach back and enjoy the beautiful view.

Torprundan

Ascent: 76 m | Length: 3.2 km

A pleasant walk through the old mining community around Fröå Gruva. Take a look inside and visit some of the well-kept homes. Along the trail you can read about the different homes and buildings, and the people and the life in a society that grew during the mining period of 1744-1919. During the summer, you’ll find mountain cattle and sheep hanging in the hills around the mine.

To get there: Follow Trail 224 from Bergstugan. Trail 224b is shorter and heads down towards Bergstugan then continues on.

Konst(ig)stigen

Ascent: about 200 m | Length: 0,8 km

The whole trail is lined with artistic installations that make it easy to keep small adventurers on the trail that climbs up a bit onto Renfjället. Glass flowers, steel wire birds, wood and fabric artwork are just some of the pieces to see and be inspired by. The trip is easy-to-reach and well-executed even for small hikers. If it’s wet, hiking boots or rubber boots may be a good idea, but on a dry summer day sneakers are perfect. There’s a wind shelter near the end of the trail where you can sit and look out over our beautiful mountains. In the late summer, it’s perfect for children to create their own pieces in the Children’s Theatre on Saturdays. Check out edsasdalen.se for days and times.

To get there: The path goes along part of Trail 220 – Renfjällsrundan. Park the car at one of Edsåsdalen’s designated parking areas. The trail starts at Hedung’s gård (farm) and a clear sign shows the road towards “Konst(ig)stigen” towards Renfjället.

Interesting facts: Konst(ig)stigen is entirely a result of the work of a local passionate enthusiast Ulla-Britt Sundström. Ulla-Britt works with local art and showcasing art in a public space where both young and old can enjoy it. Konst(ig)stigen is open all summer for hiking.