Hiking with kids

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.

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.

Young explorers. Photo: Niclas Vestefjell

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.

Mt. Åreskutans 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.

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.

There is a fascinating world to explore. Photo: Darren Hamlin

Once you get to Byxtjärn, 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.

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 between the years 1744-1919. During the summer, you’ll find mountain cattle and sheep hanging in the hills around the mine.

Åtorpsrundan

Ascent 90 m | Length 4,2 km

Fröå Gruva is a wonderful place for a family outing, with scenic hiking trails for adventurers of all ages. Åtorpsrundan is an easy trail that winds through the forest, making it a great choice for a hike with the kids.

At the historic mining site in Fröå, you’ll find a barbecue area with firewood provided. Pack your backpack with something tasty to grill and enjoy a well-deserved break after your hike.

And once everyone has refueled, there’s still plenty to explore among the fascinating remains of the old mining site!

Konst(ig)stigen (art trail)

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.

Fun fact: 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.

There's always something to discover on the trail.

Make the hike better

• Drink water from a fresh water stream. Only drink from running waters and keep a bit away from trails, roads and huts.
• Find plants and flowers to examine and talk about.
• Make a stop and enjoy the view, not just from the top.
• Tell stories of forest animals and other tiny creatures.
• Rest on a bench, a sit pad or in the moss.
• Remember to bring plenty of Swedish fika for your adventures.