The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Stordalen

Stordalen offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features over 50 routes, with 17 classified as easy and 26 as moderate, ensuring there's something suitable for families of all experience levels.

The warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn, are ideal for family hikes in Stordalen. During this period, the weather is generally milder, and trails are more accessible, allowing you to fully enjoy the diverse landscapes, from mountainous terrain to subarctic mires.

Yes, Stordalen features several circular routes perfect for families. For instance, the Abiskojåkka Canyon – Meditation spot Abiskojokk loop from Abisko Östra offers a moderate, scenic experience. Another option is the Meditation spot Abiskojokk – Abiskojåkka Canyon loop from Abisko Östra, which provides a slightly shorter circular walk.

Many trails in Stordalen are dog-friendly, but it's important to check local regulations, especially within nature reserves like Stordalen Naturreservat. Always keep your dog on a leash, particularly during nesting seasons for birds, and ensure you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment.

While many trails in Stordalen involve varied terrain, some paths, especially those closer to villages or well-maintained sections, might be suitable for sturdy strollers. For an easier, less challenging walk, consider routes like the Abisko East Train Station – STF Abisko Mountain Station loop from Abisko Östra, which is classified as easy and covers a shorter distance.

Stordalen boasts a rich variety of natural features. You can expect to see stunning fjords, impressive waterfalls like Tvinnefossen and Holvikfossen, and numerous lakes and rivers. The Swedish side also offers unique subarctic environments with extensive mires and permafrost formations known as palsar, such as the Stordalen Mire.

Access to trails in Stordalen can vary. Some areas, particularly around more developed hubs like Abisko Östra, may have public transport options. For example, the Abisko East Train Station – Älgnabben loop from Abisko Östra starts conveniently near a train station. For more remote trailheads, personal vehicles or local taxi services might be necessary.

The Stordalen Fjellstove (Mountain Lodge) is a well-known base for hikers, offering accommodation and often providing local information. Depending on your chosen trail, you might find cafes and other amenities in nearby villages or towns. It's always a good idea to plan ahead, especially when venturing into more secluded areas.

Stordalen is known for its rich and varied birdlife, particularly in the grey alder forests, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching. While hiking, you might also spot various small mammals and other local fauna adapted to the diverse landscapes, from mountainous regions to mires.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Stordalen, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse and captivating landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to experience both dramatic natural beauty and unique subarctic environments. Many appreciate the variety of trails suitable for different ability levels, including families.

Yes, beyond its natural beauty, Stordalen offers historical insights. Some trails, particularly in the Matre Mountains, allow hikers to follow in the footsteps of the resistance group Bjørn West, providing a unique blend of magnificent nature and historical experience. You can find more information about this historical aspect on Visit Norway.