St. Olavsleden: Pilgrimstad to Östersund

This section of the St. Olavsleden is approximately 38.9 km (24.2 miles) long. For touring cyclists, it generally takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes of active cycling to complete.

The terrain is moderately hilly with an undulating landscape, featuring an ascent of about 276 meters and a descent of 270 meters. You can expect a mix of surfaces, including approximately 36% asphalt, 45% gravel roads, and 19% forest trails. While some paths can be a bit tricky, they are not considered technically difficult.

Given the varied surfaces, which include gravel and forest trails, a road bike is not recommended. Hybrid, gravel, or mountain bikes are much better suited for this route to handle the mixed terrain comfortably.

As you cycle, you'll encounter several interesting spots. Highlights include the Linehäll Wooden Bridge, the historic Kungsstenen in Svedje, and the 12th-century defense tower in Brunflo. You'll also pass St. Olav's Spring at Lövberget, and the route culminates in Östersund, where you can visit Stortorget Östersund.

The best time to cycle this section of the St. Olavsleden is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn (May to September), when the weather is most favorable and the trail conditions are good. This allows you to fully enjoy the scenery and historical sites.

Generally, dogs are welcome on the St. Olavsleden. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through populated areas, near livestock, or in nature reserves to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

No, you do not need a special permit or have to pay entrance fees to cycle this section of the St. Olavsleden. It is a public pilgrimage route accessible to everyone.

Parking options are available in both Pilgrimstad and Östersund. In Pilgrimstad, you can usually find parking near the start of the trail. In Östersund, there are various public parking facilities available, particularly around the city center near the trail's end.

Yes, this route is part of the larger St. Olavsleden pilgrimage. Specifically, this section includes parts of the official trails named St. Olavsleden dagsetapp Pilgrimstad – Brunflo and St. Olavsleden dagsetapp Brunflo – Östersund. It also utilizes various local cykelvägar (cycle paths) around Östersund.

Yes, as you approach Östersund, keep an eye out for Odensalakärret, just three kilometers from the city. This area is known for its rich flora, including a variety of protected orchids that thrive in the calcareous water. You'll also enjoy magnificent views of Lake Storsjön and the Jämtland mountains.

While this section is relatively short, you'll find amenities in the larger towns. Pilgrimstad has limited services, but Östersund, as the county's only town, offers a wide range of accommodation, restaurants, and cafes. It's advisable to carry snacks and water for the cycling portion between the towns.