Björnen got its first lift in 1981 and in wintertime, 10 lifts and 18 slopes are open in this area. The ski area consists mostly of green and blue slopes and is very suitable for families with children and not so familiar skiers. There’s also Åre’s Cross-Country Arena with everything from 1 to 15 kilometres of both skate and classic tracks run by SkiStar.
Since the start of the summer of 2017, a network of trails for trail cycling has emerged in the Björnen area. Today Åre Trail Park, as the area is called by cyclists, boast about 15 trails. During the summer season, there is a large pump track (perfect for large and small children), a technical track and a climbing park with ziplines among the treetops.
At the top of Björnen, on top of the mountain, lies the hotel Copperhill. Between there and Björnen’s Centre there are loads of cabins, houses, and apartments.
How to get here
Björnen Centre is located about eight kilometres by car from Åre Square in the direction of Östersund. You can get there by car or, during the winter, take the ski bus from Duved, Tegefjäll or Åre to Björnen.
The exit towards Björnen is located along the E14. If you come from Östersund, turn right opposite Ica Björnänge. If you come from Åre, turn left at the same intersection.
Accommodations
If you turn up from the centre of Björnen, aim for the top of Förberget at the end of the road you arrive at Copperhill Mountain Lodge. Overlooking Åredalen, this is Björnen’s only hotel, with 112 hotel rooms, six conference rooms, spa, restaurants, gym and more.
The largest part of Björnen’s buildings consists of cabins and semi-detached houses. Many of them are rented out, either through housing agencies such as AGO i Åre and SkiStar or via private individuals.
Find accommodation in Björnen and Åre.
Summer activities
The summer season is crowded with cyclists, runners, and hikers in Björnen. This is an area where the trails are easily accessible and since the area is connected to the rest of Åre, it’s easy to get around. Via Åre Trails you’ll find trails for cycling, running, and hiking in Björnen.
Biking
Björnen is the perfect place to start your mountain biking journey. Begin on easy green trails and gradually progress to more challenging routes as your skills grow. You'll also find a pump track and a skills area designed to help you practise the features and obstacles you'll encounter out on the forest trails. Read more about Åre Trail Park here.
Hiking
Starting from Björnen Centre, you'll find scenic hiking trails leading to destinations such as Copperhill and the historic Fröå Mine. Continue higher into the mountains to discover tranquil tarns and beautiful spots that are perfect for a picnic or a well-earned coffee break.
For younger hikers, Björnlandet is a great family-friendly trail. Along the way, carved wooden figures bring The Bears' Holiday to life, inviting children to follow the bears on their adventure through the forest.
At Björnens Skidcenter or in SkiStar Shops you can pick up a pocket sized trail map to bring with you and at the digital trail guide Åre Trails you can find all the hiking trails with maps and trail descriptions to plan your mountain hike.
Running
Those who really want to give their legs and heart a real workout can always take the road up from Björnänge to Björnen Center. But, for the mountain runner, there are plenty of alternatives here.
Running the old Fröåvägen is a nice alternative, as well as running from Björnen Center further past the XC Arena and the outdoor gym towards Fröå Gruva.
At Björnens Skidcenter or in SkiStar Shops you can pick up a pocket sized trail map to bring with you and at the digital trail guide Åre Trails you can find all the trails suitable for running with maps and trail descriptions.
Climbing park
Björnen's high ropes course, with zip lines through the treetops, offers a fun challenge for every level of adventurer. If you're a little nervous about heights, you can start on the lower courses, while thrill-seekers can head straight for the biggest challenges. It's a great activity for friends, families and groups, and can be booked through SkiStar.
Outdoor gym
Just beyond the XC Arena, seen from the center of Björnen, there is an outdoor gym that fits nicely as a complement to today’s activities. Perhaps the beginning of your run or just to take an extra workout during your stay in Björnen.
The outdoor gym in Björnen.
Eat and drink
Where there are people in Åre, there is the opportunity to eat and drink well. Here you’ll find a list of restaurants and places to eat in Björnen:
TIPS: Check todays opening hours before deciding where and when to eat.
Good to know
Parking
The car parks in Björnen are subject to a parking fee. You can either pay with the Aimo app where you can connect your debit/credit card directly to the app, via SMS service or directly at the parking ticket machines. More information is available at each parking ticket machine.
Some SkiStar season passes for lifts, skiing and biking include a parking permit valid at all SkiStar parking areas.
Björnen also offers designated motorhome and caravan pitches. For more information about parking and motorhome facilities in Åre, visit our Getting to Åre page.
Food and shopping
In the centre of Björnen you'll find the ICA To Go Björnen convenience store. When the store is unstaffed, you can still shop using the ICA To Go app and self-service concept.
For a wider selection, ICA Nära Björnänge is located just off the E14. You can pre-order groceries for collection before arriving in Åre or stock up on supplies during your stay. Next to the supermarket you'll also find a petrol station and, of course, the popular Åre Chocolate Factory.
Åre Trails
Find the trail that fits your day. With Åre Trails, you’ll discover routes for hiking, biking, trail running and more – from peaceful forest paths to long days above the tree line. Plan your mountain adventure from the comfort of home with Åre Trails.
