2 Trails, 1 Mountain: How Skuleberget reveals the secret of flow state

Flow State on Skuleberget: The Secret of the Eagle and Elk Trails

A Forest Guest's Guide to Trail Running Consciousness along two of my favorite segments of Skuleberget Mount.

The Mountain speaks first

"Before my feet touch the trail, Skuleberget has already been running for millions of years and started emerging from the ice sheet around 10,000 years ago. These ancient rocks of the High Coast—formed during the Svecokarelian orogeny, pushed and folded by tectonic forces—understand movement in a way no GPS ever could.

Standing at 295 meters above sea level, this mountain isn't just geography. It's a living record of geological flow, where stone rivers and glacial movements have carved narratives far more complex than any trail segment. When I run here, I'm not conquering terrain. I'm joining a conversation that began long before I was born."

Tommaso

The choice at the base

I stand at the base of Skuleberget on a May morning, my legs already humming with anticipation. Around me, other High Coast Runners gather—all grinning, all of us here for the same reason: to run 25 kilometers, climb 1,500 meters of elevation for the #BIG5 Challenge, and discover something about ourselves on this ancient mountain.

But here's what most people don't understand about Skuleberget: it's not about the summit. It's about the choice.

Every serious runner who arrives at Skuleberget faces the same decision: which path will unlock your deepest flow state today?

Approaching the base of the mountain, this isn't a question about difficulty or distance. It's about consciousness itself.

The Mountain speaks in two languages

Skuleberget is one of the most iconic spots of this Swedish UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a mountain that has stood here for 900 million years, watching the ice ages come and go, witnessing the slow dance of geological time. And it speaks to runners in two distinct voices.

The first voice comes from the Eagle Trail—the direct route. Steep, relentless, demanding. It climbs 300 meters in less than a kilometer. Your heart pounds. Your quads scream. But there's something pure about it: the clarity of effort, the simplicity of suffering and transcendence. This is the path of intensity, of pushing through, of the traditional flow state we've all been taught to chase.

The second voice is the Elk Trail—the lonely long way around. It winds through forests, follows ridgelines, descends into valleys. The elevation gain is spread across the entire route. It's "gentler" on paper, but it demands something different: patience, presence, the ability to sustain effort without drama. This is the ecological flow—the kind that doesn't exhaust you, but deepens you.

Most runners choose one or like the other. But the real secret of Skuleberget is this: both are right. Both teach you something different about consciousness.

The Eagle and the Elk: A tale of two flows

The Marked Path: Performance as Destination

The Eagle Trail seduces with its promise of control. Clear markers. Defined objectives. Predictable challenges. Your GPS tracks every meter. Your watch monitors every heartbeat. The trail is mapped, measured, and manageable.

Neurologically, this represents a high-cognitive load environment. Your prefrontal cortex remains hyperactive, constantly processing performance metrics, route complexity, and competitive benchmarks.

You're thinking about the run instead of being the run.

The Occupier's Rhythm:

• Imposed human pace

• External validation through metrics

• Performance as the primary metric

• Landscape as static backdrop

The Wild Invitation: Presence as Destination

The Elk Trail doesn't appear on most maps. No needle markers guide your way. No crowds validate your effort. Just you, ancient pines, and terrain that demands your complete presence.

When you enter this trail, something profound happens to your nervous system. Your default mode network recalibrates. Your prefrontal cortex downregulates. Interoceptive awareness amplifies. Ecological consciousness emerges.

Your foot doesn't just land; it listens. Your breath doesn't power movement; it synchronizes with the mountain's respiratory rhythm.

You're no longer running on the mountain—you're running with it.

What I've learned running these trails

I don't remember how many times I've run these two segments. Not because I'm chasing a personal record or a Strava crown. But because each run reveals something new about what it means to be present.

On the Eagle path, I learned that flow isn't about speed. It's about surrender to the mountain's pace.

On the Elk path, I discovered that the best runs happen when I stop trying to "run well" and start listening to what my body wants to do.

The Skogspaus G.U.E.S.T. principles in motion on two opposite faces of the mountain

G - GENTLE

• 🦅 segment: Social gentleness

• 🫎 segment: Ecological gentleness

U - UNDERSTANDING

• 🦅 segment: Human systems

• 🫎 segment: Natural ecosystems

E - EMPATHETIC

• 🦅 segment: Runner empathy

• 🫎 segment: Landscape empathy

S - SUSTAINABLE

• 🦅 segment: Social sustainability

• 🫎 segment: Ecological sustainability

T - TRANSFORMATIVE

• 🦅 segment: Performance transformation

• 🫎 segment: Consciousness transformation

The Flow State Revolution

Traditional Flow:

• Overcome resistance

• Individual achievement

• External metrics

• Competitive mindset

Forest Guest Flow:

• Dance with resistance

• Ecological participation

• Internal resonance

• Collaborative mindset

Neurological Evidence

Emerging research in ecological neuroscience suggests that:

• Flow states are not just psychological

• They're complex neurobiological conversations

• Environment actively participates in consciousness modulation

Your next run: An invitation

Tomorrow, when you lace up your trail shoes, you'll face a choice:

Will you run the trail, or will you let the trail run through you?

The Eagle and the Elk are waiting. Both have lessons about:

Performance 👉 vs. Presence

Achievement 👉 vs. Awareness

Occupation 👉 vs. Conversation

When the mountain becomes a mirror

Every year, in late May, something happens here which almost amazes and excites me every time.

Runners arrive—some alone, some with friends, some who've never met before. They come from Finland, Germany, Italy, all over—drawn by word that Skuleberget teaches something you can't learn racing or training elsewhere.

They come because they want to know what it feels like to run with the mountain, not against it.

And when they stand at the base—at that same choice point where I stand every time—something shifts. Segments like the Eagle and the Elk aren't just trails anymore. They're mirrors. Each runner sees themselves in the mountain's two voices.

Some discover they need the clarity of the steep path. Others find their truth in the patient, winding way. Most learn that both kind of paths are sacred.

This is the story behind the #BIG5 Challenge. If you want to understand the full journey—from its origins to the traditions that make it unique— read: The Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge: Where Trail Running Meets Nordic Soul.

The #BIG5 Challenge: Five paths, one mountain

This is why we created the #BIG5 Challenge.

Not as a race. Not as a competition. But as an invitation to meet yourself on the same mountain where thousands of runners have already found something they didn't know they were looking for.

Five animal paths. Five different states of consciousness:

LYNX – The hunter's awareness. Acute, focused, predatory presence.

ELK – The wanderer's rhythm. Steady, sustainable, connected to the herd.

BEAR – The grounded power. Strength meeting earth, rooted and real.

EAGLE – The expansive view. Perspective from altitude, seeing the whole landscape.

FOX – The intelligent adaptation. Cunning, responsive, dancing with terrain.

Each teaches something different. Each reveals a different part of you.

Know all the #BIG5 segments— read: Trail running in the High Coast: The #BIG5 Paths of the Skuleberget Mount

After the run: The real gathering

Here's what I've learned: the challenge at Skuleberget doesn't end at the finish.

It ends when we gather at the marina clubhouse—sweaty, tired, alive. When we share stories over espresso and snacks. When we sit by the sea and remember why we run. When a stranger from Finland becomes a friend because you both discovered something true about yourselves on the same mountain.

This is where you discover that the real magic doesn’t happen on the summit only. In the #HighCoastRunner community. In the collective understanding that we're all here for the same reason: to let the mountain teach us something about presence, flow, and what it means to be fully alive on a trail.

Your invitation

The 6th #BIG5 Challenge is May 30th, 2026: Five uphill segments on Skuleberget, run together. No timing. No podium. No entry fee. But make no mistake: this is a serious mountain day.

It’s recommended for trail runners with a solid training base—people who respect steep terrain, long effort, and changing conditions. Distance and elevation don’t tell the whole story here. The mountain does.

If you feel called, you’re welcome.

Bring a minimal backpack and a light soul. The rest will follow.

We may keep this edition small (around 50 runners) to protect the spirit – we keep it intimate so everyone gets the care, the community, and the real experience.

Ready?

Join the High Coast Runner Club on Strava

Pls. confirm your spot at the 2026 edition of the #BIG5 Challenge: tominthehighcoast@gmail.com | +46 76 3136909

See you on the trails.

Tommaso :)

The Mountain doesn't end at the finish of your path

Skuleberget is one of those places that doesn't care about your plans. You can come here for a technical trail running session, a panoramic hike with a friend, a quiet solo climb when life feels loud—or a hard session on steep ground when you need to remember what you're made of. Either way, the mountain gives you the same kind of honesty: clear air, simple effort, and that calm tiredness that feels like truth.

And if you return often enough, you start to understand something else too: we don't come here only to "train". We come here to meet ourselves—again and again—on the same trail.

Tommaso De Rosa

Co-creator, Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge

For any inquiries about the challenge, feel free to contact me:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)
dockstahavet@gmail.com

P.S. - I'm also the author of SKOGSPAUS: The Forest Guest Bible, a 10-lesson guide to Forest Guest Consciousness. Read it below with 50% OFF.

Want to go deeper into Forest Guest Consciousness?

Entering the forest is more than just a run. Most of our running sessions begin with urgency: lacing shoes, checking watches, setting goals. We treat forests as backdrops for our performance, landscapes to cross rather than conversations to enter. SKOGSPAUS Forest Guest Consciousness and P.A.U.S.E. methodology offer a different approach: your first steps into the forest become a dialogue, bringing mindfulness and flow to every outdoor session, even an intense trail run. SKOGSPAUS isn't a training method. It's a way of being in the forest.

My e-book—a 10-lesson guide to presence, flow, and ecological awareness—shows you how to transform every trail into a conversation with the mountain.

Get 50% OFF with this code:

HIGHCOASTRUNNER

at this link:

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The Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge: Where trail running meets nordic soul

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Save the Date: May 30, 2026

The 6th edition of the Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge is coming. Same trails, same spirit, new stories.

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#BIG5 Challenge: 5 years of trail running magic in Sweden's High Coast

“My journey through five editions of mountain magic, forest friendships, and the authentic spirit that makes the High Coast's most unique trail running event truly special.” _Tom

When a trail fox started telling our stories

It all began in 2019 with a simple idea that Johnny and I shared: what if trail running could be more than just covering distance? What if it could become a story worth telling, a community worth building, and an adventure worth sharing?

That's how 🦊_Skully, our beloved trail fox mascot, was born and became the heart and soul of the Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge. Through the dedicated Instagram profile @skulebergetbig5, Skully doesn't just promote our event – he weaves tales of mountain adventures, forest friendships, and the pure joy of running wild through Sweden's most spectacular landscape.

"Every trail has a story to tell, and every runner has a story to write," Skully often reminds us, embodying the authentic spirit that makes our challenge unlike any other trail running event in Scandinavia.

The birth of something special at Skuleberget

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The Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge emerged from the passion of trail runners who wanted to create something genuine in the High Coast region. Located in Höga Kusten (High Coast), part of the Höga Kusten/Kvarken Archipelago UNESCO World Heritage site, this isn't just another race – it's a celebration of what makes Nordic trail running truly magical and what we love most: authentic outdoor experiences and… adventure!

The vision became reality through the friendship and collaborative efforts of passionate trail runners, with Johnny Forslund (@johnny.forslund) serving as co-creator and bringing essential expertise in Nordic trail running culture. Johnny's understanding of what makes trail running sessions truly special helped us shape the #BIG5 Challenge's unique character from its very beginning.

I've watched Höga Kusten's magic unfold through every season. This stretch along Sweden's Baltic coast, where ancient mountains meet pristine waters, creates a landscape that seems crafted specifically for trail running adventures. The region's unique geology, formed by post-glacial rebound and featuring the world's highest known land uplift, offers runners everything from coastal paths to mountain peaks, all within a compact area that feels like nature's own trail running playground.

At the heart of this natural wonderland stands Skuleberget Mountain, rising 295 meters above the Baltic Sea and offering five distinct trail segments that have become legendary among Nordic trail runners.

Five trails, one epic journey

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The #BIG5 Challenge takes its name from five carefully selected uphill trail segments on Skuleberget that we mapped out together, each with its own character and challenge:

🏃‍♂️ LYNX - The uphill power segment that tests your climbing strength
🦌 ELK - The endurance challenge that demands mental fortitude
🐻 BEAR - The strength section through steep ski slopes
🦅 EAGLE - The most vertical segment, with stunning panoramic view spots
🦊 FOX - The finale that combines wisdom with determination

"Each segment teaches you something different about yourself," Skully explains through our storytelling. "LYNX shows you your power, ELK reveals your endurance, BEAR tests your strength, EAGLE demands your courage, and FOX... well, FOX teaches you that every ending is just a new beginning."

The complete challenge covers approximately 25 kilometers with 1,500 meters of elevation gain, winding through red granite formations, ancient pine forests, and offering breathtaking views of the High Coast archipelago, with it's fjörds and forests, that I wake up to every morning from the piers of the marina.

A community born from authentic passion

High Coast Runners at 5th Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge (May, 2025)

What truly sets our #BIG5 Challenge apart isn't just the stunning location or challenging course – it's the authentic community that has grown around it. The High Coast Runner Strava Club has become a year-round virtual gathering place for trail enthusiasts.

"Johnny and I never set out to create just another race," I often reflect. "We wanted to create something that honored both this incredible landscape and the people who love to explore it."

This philosophy extends to every aspect of our event. There's no entry fee, no formal registration process, and no time limits. Instead, there's a simple requirement: if possible, bring at least one friend, because the best adventures are shared adventures.

Image from the 2025 edition

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Stories that make legends

The 5th edition brought moments that perfectly capture our event's inclusive spirit. My and Mia, two young girls under 10, became the challenge's youngest-ever participants, conquering the demanding EAGLE segment and touching the traditional Skrubban monument at the summit. Watching them achieve this reminded everyone that mountain spirit knows no age limits.

Our event has also fostered unexpected partnerships, like the collaboration with Wild & Berg (@wildandberg), a Finnish company whose protein balls found their way into participant gift bags – not through corporate sponsorship, but through genuine Nordic friendship and shared values that I deeply appreciate.

Local running groups like Skogslöparna have definitely embraced our challenge as part of their annual adventures, while international participants regularly make the journey to experience something they can't find anywhere else.

Beyond the Challenge: A year-round community

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Our #BIG5 Challenge represents just one weekend, but its impact extends throughout the year. The High Coast Runner Strava Club maintains an active community of trail and outdoor enthusiasts who share routes and sessions, organize informal runs, and support each other's outdoor adventures.

Åska, Skully's champagne-colored tabby cat companion (and my real-life feline friend here at the marina @åskailvampiro), has become famous for crafting the colorful fabric gift bags that participants receive – each one hand-sewn and personalized, embodying our commitment to authentic, personal touches over mass production.

"In a world of corporate events and standardized experiences," Åska notes in our storytelling, "we choose to remain small, personal, and genuine. That's not a limitation – it's our greatest strength."

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The Italian trail renaissance

As an Italian living in Sweden, I'm particularly excited about the growing participation of Italian trail runners, drawn to the High Coast's unique combination of mountain challenge and Nordic hospitality. Athletes like @ezio.adventures @rogerolivieri @bepperunandcode and @paolofiacchi have become ambassadors for our #BIG5 Challenge in Italy, sharing their High Coast experiences and inspiring a new wave of Mediterranean mountain enthusiasts to discover Swedish trail magic.

"My fellow Italians are discovering what I've known since moving here," I often tell them. "The High Coast offers something you can't find in the Alps – this perfect blend of technical challenge, pristine nature, and authentic community spirit."

This connection between my Italian heritage and Swedish home creates something special – a bridge between Mediterranean passion and Nordic authenticity that enriches our entire community.

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Sharing our story beyond the trails

The authentic spirit of our #BIG5 Challenge has caught the attention of the broader trail running community, including features in specialized media like the Runner's Tales podcast, where I had the opportunity to share insights into what makes this High Coast event so uniquely compelling. These conversations help me spread awareness of Sweden's hidden trail running gems to international audiences seeking authentic outdoor experiences.

Skuleberget #BIG5challenge Runner’s Tales episode >

The Finnish connection: Marika's magic touch

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One of the most beloved additions of our 5th #BIG5 Challenge has become Marika's post-trail foot massages (@maricken1) – a recovery service that has elite runners and weekend warriors alike singing her praises. This Finnish friend of our High Coast community brings professional sport massage expertise to the after-challenge, providing the perfect end to 25 kilometers of mountain adventure.

"After conquering EAGLE's steep granite and FOX's final push, there's nothing quite like Marika's skilled hands helping your feet recover," laughs elite athlete participant Emil (@korpen_emil83). "It's become one of the most anticipated parts of the entire experience."

Marika's presence exemplifies the international friendship that defines our #BIG5 Challenge – a Nordic network of outdoor enthusiasts who support each other's adventures across borders. Her massage station has become an unofficial gathering point where stories are shared, new friendships are formed, and the day's achievements are properly celebrated.

Åska's legendary lasagne: The perfect “grande finale”

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Starting from the 2024 edition, No #BIG5 Challenge is complete without Åska's famous post-challenge lasagne feast. After 25 kilometers of mountain adventure, participants gather at Docksta Havet Base Camp for what has become our event's most anticipated tradition.

"There's something magical about sharing a meal after conquering the mountain together," I explain, as Åska's homemade lasagne has become legendary among returning participants. "It's not just about refueling – it's about celebrating what we've accomplished as a community."

For the runners, the post-challenge gathering transforms the marina into a storytelling hub where new friendships are forged, epic moments are relived, and plans for next year's adventure begin taking shape. Elite athletes sit alongside first-time challengers, sharing tales of the mountain’s experience or about their own passione.

The magic of handmade traditions

Perhaps nothing captures our event's authentic spirit better than the traditions we've created. Every participant signs a collective poster before the challenge begins – a ritual that has created five years of memories now displayed in my marina's Sailor's Club House.

At 2025 edition, we introduced finisher medals that tell their own story of authenticity. Crafted by 🦡_Mozy the badger (in Skully's storytelling world), these aren't mass-produced awards but handmade wooden pentagons, laser-engraved and fitted with green ribbons that match the forest trails. Each medal represents not just completion, but participation in something genuinely special.

"These aren't just medals," Skully explains in our stories, "they're pieces of our High Coast spirit – crafted with the same care that builds our traditional wooden boats."

Partnership with Höga Kusten Tourism: Sharing the Heritage

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The 2025 edition marked a significant milestone with the Höga Kusten Tourism team (@högakusten) joining as an official partner, recognizing our #BIG5 Challenge's role in promoting authentic outdoor experiences in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Their contribution went beyond simple sponsorship – each challenger received an additional gift bag containing a beautiful guidebook about the High Coast, ensuring that participants could continue exploring the region long after their trail running adventure ended.

"The #BIG5 Challenge perfectly embodies what makes the High Coast special," explains the Höga Kusten Tourism team. "It's not just about athletic achievement – it's about connecting people with our unique landscape and helping them understand why this area earned World Heritage status."

A network of authentic partnerships

High Coast Runner #BIG5 Challenge's growth has attracted partners who share our commitment to authenticity and community. From Wild & Berg's Finnish protein balls to the Höga Kusten Tourism team's educational guidebooks, every partnership enhances the participant experience while maintaining our event's genuine character.

Local partnerships with groups like Skogslöparna orienteering club (@skogslöparna) and TNT TeamNordicTrail Sundsvall ensure our event remains connected to Sweden's broader outdoor community, while international connections through influencers help spread our High Coast story across Nordic borders and the Internet.

"From Marika's healing hands to the Höga Kusten Tourism team's educational support, from Åska's handmade gift bags to Mozy's wooden medals – every detail of our #BIG5 Challenge reflects my belief that the best adventures happen when authentic people create genuine experiences together," I reflect through Skully's voice.

The perfect Base Camp experience

Docksta Havet (@dockstahavetbasecamp) provides more than just accommodation for visiting runners and explorers. With options ranging from the minimalist Boathouse to the glamourous waterfront Dock House and spacious Guest House, participants can choose their perfect recovery environment.

The marina's Sailor's Club House serves as the natural gathering place, offering free espresso, trail maps, local expertise, and the kind of authentic Italian-Swedish hospitality that makes visitors feel like temporary locals rather than tourists.

"We don't just provide beds and moorings," I explain to every guest. "The Base Camp provides the complete High Coast experience – from trail recommendations to weather insights to the best spots for post-run recovery, all filtered through my unique perspective as an Italian who's made this Nordic paradise home."

Looking forward: The future of authentic adventure

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As our #BIG5 Challenge enters its sixth edition, Johnny and I remain focused on preserving what makes it special while welcoming new participants to experience the magic. We actively seek partnerships with organizations that share our values of community and respect for the Mountain with its natural environment.

For potential partners, the Skulegerget #BIG5 Challenge offers something increasingly rare in the sports world: genuine authenticity. This isn't about logo placement or corporate messaging – it's about joining a community that values quality over quantity, experience over exposure, and stories over statistics.

Join our adventure

The Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge happens annually on May, timed to capture the Swedish spring at its most beautiful. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner seeking a unique challenge or someone curious about joining a truly authentic outdoor community, I welcome you to the High Coast.

"The mountain doesn't care about your personal records or your running resume," Skully reminds us in our stories. "It only cares about your willingness to explore, to challenge yourself, and to share the adventure with others."

Follow @skulebergetbig5 for year-round inspiration, join the High Coast Runner Strava Club for community connection, and consider making Docksta Havet your base for exploring one of Sweden's most spectacular trail running destinations.

Because in the end, our #BIG5 Challenge isn't just about running 25 kilometers through beautiful terrain – it's about discovering what happens when authentic passion meets pristine wilderness, when individual challenge becomes shared adventure, and when a simple trail run becomes a story worth telling.

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[ 2026 SPRING EDITION ]

6th Skuleberget #BIG5 Uphills Challenge

•

Read all about the details!
 

WHERE:

SKULEBERGET MOUNTAIN

87396 Docksta, Västernorrland, Sweden
 

WHEN:

30 MAY 2026

 
START:

10:00 a.m.

The runners will meet at the parking area of the Naturum Höga Kusten World Heritage Centre shortly before, around 09:30. Last-minute changes to the start times may occur.

AFTER-CHALLENGE GHATERING:

#BIG5 “THIRD TIME”

As you finish running, we are waiting for you at the #BIG5 after-challenge, where participants and guests are coming to meet together to share and celebrate the experience. The event that take place at the marina club house in Docksta includes snacks and drinks of a frindly fika, parking, and a service house for changing and showering. By car, the marina is just a few minutes from Naturum.

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Ready to write your own High Coast story?

Whether you're inspired by My and Mia's youthful courage, intrigued by the growing Italian trail running connection, or simply drawn to experience Åska's legendary post-challenge lasagne, I invite you to become part of our authentic mountain community.

Contact Information:

• Email: dockstahavet@gmail.com

• Instagram: @skulebergetbig5

• Strava: High Coast Runner Club

The mountain is waiting, and Åska's already planning next year's lasagne... 🦊

"See you on the trails, brave souls!" - Skully

This isn't just trail running – it's a celebration of what makes the Nordic outdoor community so special: friendship, craftsmanship, and the shared belief that the best stories are written on mountain trails.

For partnerships, collaborations, or more information: dockstahavet@gmail.com | @skulebergetbig5 Tommaso De Rosa

Tommaso De Rosa

Co-creator, Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge

For any inquiries about the challenge, feel free to contact me:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)
dockstahavet@gmail.com

Join the epic #BIG5 Challenge: your trail run adventure awaits at Skuleberget

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The "Lynx," "Elk," "Bear," "Eagle," and "Fox" are recognized as the five trails that lead to the magnificent summit of Skuleberget Mountain, overlooking the High Coast World Heritage Site in northern Sweden. As you embark on these trails, you'll encounter some of the most breathtaking scenery the natural area has to offer.

View of the fjords from the summit of Skuleberget.

The Skuleberget #BIG5 Challenge takes you on a journey across all its uphill segments, covering kilometers of rugged terrain far from the usual tourist paths, leading to magical spots and hidden stretches waiting to be discovered.

The challenge involves running across all five uphill segments in a single session, beginning and ending on the same day. The course spans approximately 25 kilometers with a positive elevation gain of around 1500 meters. To validate the challenge, it must be completed by at least two athletes.

The #BIG5 Challenge is open to everyone, with no time limits, flexible intensity, no entry fee, and no formal registration. You are welcome to join us on May 17th, 2025!

Why the Skuleberget #BIG5 Uphills Challenge?

Beyond the dramatic landscapes at every turn of the mountain, this adventure offers a shared, unforgettable outdoor challenge that will stay with you for life. You'll have the chance to meet fellow runners and tackle the mountain with the shared purpose of having fun along its trails.

High Coast Runner “Gang” at the start of the 2024 Challenge.

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A Course for the Brave:

There is no right or wrong timing, nor is there a correct or incorrect pace. You determine the intensity with which you face the challenge. However, be prepared—the #BIG5 paths are demanding. The itinerary requires crossing between 3 and 5 kilometers from one uphill segment to the next, with a total running and hiking time of 4 to 6 hours in a single session. The course is approximately 25 kilometers with a positive elevation gain of 1500 meters.

The Official Path Sequence:

#BIG5pathLYNX uphill -> BEAR downhill -> #BIG5pathELK uphill -> FOX downhill -> #BIG5pathBEAR uphill -> LYNX downhill -> #BIG5pathEAGLE uphill -> ELK downhill -> #BIG5pathFOX uphill -> BEAR downhill

This sequence has been the official track for completing the #BIG5 Challenge since the first edition. Set your personal best: search the #BIG5 segments and record your session with the Strava app. Join the High Coast Runner club on strava.com—you are welcome in the group!

High Coast runners are calling for a new spring edition: the 5th #BIG5 Uphills Challenge is scheduled for Saturday, May 17th, 2025. Are you one of us?

 
Set your #PB:

Search the #BIG5 segments and register your session with the Strava app. Join the High Coast Runner club on strava.com: you are welcome in the group!

[ SPRING EDITION ]

5th Skuleberget #BIG5 Uphills Challenge

•

Read all about the details!
 

WHERE:

SKULEBERGET MOUNTAIN

87396 Docksta, Västernorrland, Sweden
 

WHEN:

17 MAY 2025

 
START:

10:00 a.m.

The runners will meet at the parking area of the Naturum Höga Kusten World Heritage Centre shortly before, around 09:30. Last-minute changes to the start times may occur.

AFTER-CHALLENGE GHATERING:

#BIG5 “THIRD TIME”

As you finish running, we are waiting for you at the #BIG5 after-challenge, where participants and guests are coming to meet together to share and celebrate the experience. The event that take place at the marina club house in Docksta includes snacks and drinks of a frindly fika, parking, and a service house for changing and showering. By car, the marina is just a few minutes from Naturum.

Join us in this epic adventure.

For any inquiries about the challenge, feel free to contact me:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)
dockstahavet@gmail.com

Read more about the Skuleberget Mount, the #BIG5 paths and trailrunning in the High Coast:

4 links to get the best spot in paradise for trail-running Höga Kusten

Read this post if you love running or hiking, and save its links for your next Höga Kusten holiday in nature.

Get practical information on hiking and trail running routes on the paths in the forests of the beautiful mountains surrounding the area of Skule, their summits give exciting panoramic views of the archipelago.

Even if you are only visiting the High Coast for a few days, there are at least six mountains in the area that will provide you with unforgettable hikes, and at least two of them you simply must run: the trails at Skuleberget Mount are located a mere few kilometers away from our piers, whereas Slåttalsberget summit is situated inside Skuleskogen National Park.

Catch the opportunity to run across beautiful forests between the mountain and the Baltic Sea and to get unique "trail" experiences reconnecting the wilderness.

For a few unforgettable outdoor missions into nature during the weekend or for a several-day holiday plan, you can draw your adventure over the breathtaking scenery of the High Coast: set your base camp in Docksta, starting from the marina and exploring new trails and terrains right into the heart of World Heritage.

4 key links to start from: explore endless opportunities for trail runners and hikers in the area of Skuleskogen National Park or Skuleberget Mount nearby Docksta.

The High Coast is a paradise for trail running: it offers the perfect terrain playground for hikers and runners, both for beginners and experts.

Plan ahead of time, get your calendar ready, and organize your runner's holiday, and don't forget to include these locations and best segments:

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Run the Skuleberget Mount's magnificent paths into its natural area

5 trails highlighted by local runners 👉 read more >

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2#

Slåttdalsberget Mount: don't miss a memorable trail to experience the Skuleskogen National Park's top spots and scenery

I wholeheartedly endorse this trek 👉 read more >

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Discover the paths to the most stunning panoramic spots over the archipelago: Vårdkallberget, Getsvedjeberget, Fäberget…

Run steep, get high on the High Coast 👉 read more >

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And if you want to add some adrenaline competition to spice up your vacation, joining a race is a top opportunity to discover new special places to run and to meet people who share your same passion.

Here is the reasonate calendar of trail running events and races on the High Coast: from the autumn or winter edition of the Höga Kusten Trail, to the TrailÖvik or HärnöTrail races, and others appointments.

Run wild, race fast in the Höga Kusten 👉 read more→

I attempted to provide a brief overview of some of the countless options for hiking and running in the outdoors during a trip to the High Coast, even if it's just for a few days, by writing the blog posts that are highlighted at the links above.

From a natural perspective, this part of Sweden is beautiful and has many distinctive features. The Höga Kusten can provide visitors who wish to run or hike with an amazing experience in the forests, islands, mountains, and coastline that define the archipelago, as well as those who just want to relax and enjoy a stay that immerses them in Nordic nature.

Looking for an unusual trail-running experience in the High Coast? 👉 Try this excursion along Rotsidan >

The High Coast in Västernorrland County, Sweden, is also a world heritage site for trail-running enthusiasts!

Set your holiday base camp at a top location.

Based in Docksta for your vacation, you can walk to the trails that lead you to the mountains that I have described, and you will be close to the national park. You can also easily get around by car or by bus, and you will be in the ideal location to start exploring the area. 👉 Take a look at our vacation Airbnb accommodations by the seaside >

#HIGHCOASTRUNNER

”I’m sharing running experiences within the High Coast World Heritage in Sweden”

Feel free to contact me:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)
dockstahavet@gmail.com

P.S. I like to explore new routes with a hiking mindset, especially those on the High Coast. Here below you find what I highlighted in these blog posts.

👇

In the light of the midnight sun, a run on the rocky cliff of Rotsidan

Rotsidan Nature Reserve, located between Barstahamn and Fällsvikshamn, a few kilometers south of Bönhamn, is a unique four-kilometer low-lying "beach" made of smooth, flat, gigantic rocks.

Running these cliffs is going to be one of your most memorable High Coast vacation experiences. For trail runners and hikers, Rotsidan is a fantastic place to be!

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The waves' slow labor continuously buffs the rocks' surface and the route along the long ribbon of stone shoreline offers an incredible evocative spectacle, but the highlight is the truly amazing experience of running on a diabase rock bottom that appears to have been there since the beginning of time.

Come here to run in the springtime, when the sky is clear all night and the light always casts the sea and the coast in a softly toned filter, or when the sun is already far above the sea horizon even if you get here very early in the morning.

You'll probably find yourself exploring alone, free to enjoy all of the sensations that this trail out of the patterns has to offer.

In some parts, the smooth and compact rocks of the cliff interrupt to leave room for large beaches of rocks and rounded, smaller stones. Aside from a few algae, occasionally, you will come across old tree trunks that have been bleached white by the sea.

On the north-south axis, the trail along Rotsidan that is shown on the maps is somewhat longer than 4 kilometers. It extends a little inside, but you can walk the beach off-road without restriction by keeping much closer to the water's edge and “dancing” on the rocks—basically, just staying in the bathtub.

Starting and returning from Barsta or Fällsvikshamnen along the entire distance of Rotsidan, you will cover less than ten kilometers; the difference in altitude of the route is minimal. Running free-style, jumping and improvising from time to time a direction on the rocks will be very fun.

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Bring a light backpack with your supply of liquids and something to stop you making a snack, but nothing heavy or that hinders your freedom of movement. Even shoes do not necessarily have to be lugs; they just have to have a good grip.

“Not just in Rotsidan, but anywhere else on the High Coast too, running in the late evening or at night under the midnight sun is an unforgettable experience”.

In addition, I enjoy doing it in two other very special locations: Mount Skuleberget, where my favorite trails to run in these conditions are "the Elk" descent trail and "the Lynx" and "the Eagle" paths for climbing to the summit. The second excursion that I suggest running "in the night" between June and July is a ring route that stretches just over 10 kilometers and travels through some of Skuleskogen National Park's most picturesque trails and thought-provoking spots.

#HIGHCOASTRUNNER

”I’m sharing running experiences within the High Coast World Heritage site in Sweden”

Feel free to contact me:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)

dockstahavet@gmail.com

Looking for a base camp by the seaside to start for your High Coast excursions?

The Airbnbs at Docksta Havet are located close to the National Park and the Skuleberget trails. Choosing a seaside lodging will set your vacation apart from the others.

Highlighting the best, selected trailrunning races in the Höga Kusten

Do you ever miss the opportunity to experience a run in the stunning wildness of the North?

Many runners, particularly those from abroad, have the dream of being able to run in the great outdoors while visiting this region of Sweden, which is renowned for its exceptional natural heritage.

There are several appointments throughout the year that offer the opportunity to take a few days of vacation and to participate in some truly unique races.

For all lovers of running, and trail-running in particular, I created this basic calendar, collecting some info and video, which highlights the best spots to compete along some of the most breathtaking routes on the High Coast.

You should put at least one of these amazing races in Sweden on your bucket list! :)

Trail running competitions in the High Coast World Heritage to add to your racing season

CALENDAR 2026

(in progress)

Reccommended by #HighCoastRunner

[ SPRING ]

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Sundsvall, 14-15 may 2026

SUNDSVALL TRAIL

Video @DavidHolmberg on Vimeo

This trail along the magnificent Sundsvall coastline paths is one of the highlights. The race, which brings together athletes and teams, kicks off the Höga Kusten racing season in the spring.

Distances: 24, 10, 3 kilometres

Info: sundsvalltrail.se

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Örnsköldsvik, May/June 2026

HÄGGLUNDS JOGGEN

Unmiss this weekly appointment in Örnsköldsvik to run around Lake Höglandsjön! There are five dates every Wednesday, from the first week of May to the first of June. The course is 4 km long, which you can run in a race or freestyle without timing.

Distance: 4 km

Info: Hägglundsjoggen

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Docksta, 30 May 2026

SKULEBERGET #BIG5 UPHILLS CHALLENGE

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For a few years, when the snow melt on the Skuleberget, the collective run on the five uphill paths of the mountain was renewed. It's not a race, it's a challenge between brave athletes.

Distance: ~25Km, approximately D+1.500m

Info: the #BIG5 Uphills Challenge

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Höga Kusten, 27/28 June 2025

HIGH COAST ULTRA

There is also an ultra race that crosses the entire High Coast from south to north, and that follows, in part, the famous Höga Kusten Leden track.

Distances: 130 km, start at Höga Kusten Hotell; 58 km, start in Docksta

Info: highcoastultra.se

[ SUMMER ]

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Örnsköldsvik, Sunday, 28 juni 2026

ATEA TRAILÖVIK

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To mark the start of the Swedish holiday season, there is the most anticipated trailrunning race with the best technical content along the gorgeous trails on the mountains that overflow Själevad at the gates of Ö-vik. Thanks to the expert organization of the Skogslöparna team, which designs the path in the woods, the fun is ensured. It's the next "A-race" to include in your international racing calendar!

From this year on, the TrailÖvik 22k race is part of the Outnorth Trailtour 2024 Championship calendar.

Distances: 22, 12, 6, 2 kilometres

Info: trailovik.se

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Info: skogsloparna.se

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Örnsköldsvik, 24 August 2024

HÄGGLUNDS TRAIL

It's a quick, exciting, and challenging race. It set off in the evening, following a very entertaining route that crosses amazing woodland sections as well as paths with rocks, roots, and—occasionally—a lot of mud.

Distances: 6.7 and 2.4 kilometres

Info: hagglundsskiteam.se

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Docksta, 28/29 August 2026

HÖGA KUSTEN TRAIL

There is a race that will take you to cross long and wide the Skuleskogen National Park and then, along paths in the woods, to reach the foot of the Skuleberget mountain. From there, it will push you to climb up to the top and back down from the opposite side before climbing back to the summit again for your arrival. After the summer and early fall, but also in February, when snow and ice cover the trails, hundreds of runners from everywhere meet in Docksta to participate in the two seasonal editions of this trail that are unmatched in the Scandinavian running landscape.

Distances: 43, 25, 15 kilometres

Info: hogakustentrail.se

[ AUTUMN ]

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Härnösand, 3 October 2026

HÄRNÖ TRAIL 2025

The race travels through expansive natural and coastal landscapes before finishing at the summit of the mountain above Härnösand. Traveling through the protected natural area, down to the sea, and then to the beach at Smitingen is an unforgettable experience. Every year, an increasing number of competitors take on this demanding test. This race is becoming more and more well-known in the Swedish trailrunning scene.

Distances: 21 km, 14 km, 7 km

Info: harnotrail.se

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Örnsköldsvik, Tuedday, 8 october 2024

NIGHT EDITION TRAILÖVIK

The race's nighttime version, which follows the well-known TrailÖvik routes, is unbeatable—every competitor races with their front lights on! Arriving, coming from the forest, the last peak and the finish line lighted by the fires creates an experience that will never be forgotten.

Distances: 12, 6 kilometres

Info: trailovik.se

Info: skogsloparna.se

[ WINTER ]

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Docksta, February 2025

HÖGA KUSTEN WINTER TRAIL

Distances: 50, 35, 25 kilometres

Info: hogakustenwintertrail.se

#highcoastrunner

”I’m sharing running experiences within the High Coast World Heritage in Sweden”

Feel free to contact me:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)
dockstahavet@gmail.com

Set your trail-running base camP:

Your holiday accommodation at these Airbnb is just a step from the trails at Skuleskogen National Park and Skuleberget mountain in Docksta. They are seaside and perfectly located to explore the top spots in the paradise for trail running Höga Kusten.

READ MORE ABOUT #TRAILRUNNING IN THE HIGH COAST:

Trail running in the High Coast: recommended paths around Docksta

If you love to combine hiking, running, and the passion for the great outdoors, what better way to do it than into the heart of the Höga Kusten UNESCO world heritage in Sweden?

Any trailrunning enthusiast is captivated by the long sunny spring/summer days and enchanting by varied hilly paths through breathtaking landscapes between the mountains and the Baltic Sea.

Reconnecting with nature and recharging your body, mind, and soul in peaceful natural environments makes you feel like you've stepped into a whole other universe.

Docksta is the homeland of the outdoors, and for runners, there is no exception: each path winds through forests and hills and combines breathtaking sea views with a perfectly Nordic setting.

The village is located in the center of all of this, a step from the famous Skuleberget mountain and the trails of Skuleskogen National Park.

A run here is definitely a unique experience, and there is pure joy in discovering the scenic beauty of the High Coast!

Did you know that there are at least five great trails you can run or hike to reach the top of Skuleberget Mount?

These trails are very popular in the runner community; you run all year round, and all the paths lead to the summit, rising from different sides. High Coast runners name them “Lynx, Eagle, Bear, Elk, and the Fox”; they are “the #BIG5”.

The Lynx, the Fox and the Bear will bring you uphill and downhill on the final segments of the “Höga Kusten Trail” race course, too.

On the Skuleberget, a challenge arose that led the runner to run all five paths in a single session: the #BIG5 Challenge is not a race, it's a call for a bunch of bold athletes.

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For trailrunners, the playground is not only Skuleberget Mount. Docksta is surrounded by beautiful paths: on the seafront, on the hills, or in the countryside. Many of them will lead you to the heights of the mountains that surround the land.

You will experience the thrill of running through natural scenery: real nordic forests, red Nordingrå granite rocks covered by lichen, and stunning mountain trails.

Vårdkallberget, Getsvedjeberget, Skovedsberget, Herrestaberget, Fäberget, and Skuleberget summits offer extraordinary views over the High Coast Archipelago to hikers and trail runners.

The Vårdkallberget Mount has one of the most breathtaking views of the High Coast

One of the most amazing locations for trailrunning is the magnificent Skuleskogen National Park.

All the Skuleskogen trails are extraordinary and are a few minutes' drive from the village (during the summer, there is also a free bus to reach the national park).

Even with a session of a couple of hours of trailrunning, you will be able to reach its most interesting sights: the summit of the Slåttalsberget Mount, the Slåttdalsskrevan cracks, the beautiful Tvärnättevattnen lakes, an amazing path in the forest by the seaside, and the beaches along Kälaviken Bay.

You will love trail running connected with nature on the trails of the High Coast World Heritage

“Nature running” has been shown to combine the benefit of physical exercise with the restorative effects of being immersed in natural environments.

Running a natural trail is mindful: you constantly have to find your balance, control your steps, and adapt your speed and pace to the variety in terrain and elevation.

Take a deep breath in the woods; it will clear your mind. Running or walking outdoors in nature—in Japan, it’s called ”forest bathing"—is an experience that boosts your wellbeing. You must try.

High Coast landscapes are not flat, you will likely encounter significantly more hills on the trails than you are used to on urban routes.

This is a fun opportunity to add to your standard training. Running hills will make you a stronger runner and improve your breathing efficiency.

Slow down, and just walk. Pair your breathing with your pace: inhale counting 2, 3,... 4 steps, and exhale counting 4, 5,... 6 steps. Slow, nasal breathing will fill the lungs and power your body with fresh energy. Here, the air is clean, and it’s easier to oxygenate the muscles and to have more energy to tackle the hills.

On a trail, it doesn’t matter how fast you're running. Enjoy the beautiful place you travel and the moment you’re living. High Coast runners are lucky runners, and now can be your time, too.

On the physical side, this kind of run will develop fitness, power, endurance, and strengthen different muscles. Trail running will change you into a faster and happier runner.

Before you start your run or hike, have a good dynamic warm-up and give your training a boost with 5–10' of basic bodyweight exercises: it is the best to prepare your body for trail and hill running.

Here below, you find a list of selected (and tested!) trail running paths around Docksta and Skuleberget Mount. We focus on where the local trail runners train or race, and particularly the spots where they have fun.

More than 100 kilometres of snaking trails to run, hike, or walk are highlighted, starting seaside from the pier of the marina in Docksta.

Each path has its meaning: you should definitely give them a try!

Looking for a base camp to explore the High Coast?

Get ready to explore some of the most fun trail hotspot for beginners & expert runners around Docksta and the Skule area:

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Trail 12km - D+294m

Trailrun to the summit of Vårdkallberget

starting from Docksta Havet, Höga Kusten

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Trail 7.4KM - D+224m

Trailrun in the forest to reach Skovedsberget, a lookout point over Dockstafjärden

starting from Docksta Havet, Höga Kusten

The short segment along the Höga Kusten Leden from Docksta to the wind shelter at Skovedsberget pays you back with stunning views of Dockstafjärden. Here you have a free map >

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Trail 11.5km - D+420m

Höga Kusten Trail race segment: running North Skuleberget uphill (12.1%↗️) and Höga Kusten Stigen downhill

starting from Docksta Havet, Höga Kusten

This route takes you past the Naturum museum & High Coast Visitor’s Center, goes up along the #BIG5 path named “LYNX” to the “Toppstugan” and down to the south side of the hill along the #BIG5 path named “FOX” (Höga Kusten Stigen) to the “outdoor village”, FriluftsByn.

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Trail 9.3Km - D+332m

#BIG5 path BEAR: vertical running on “Skulebacken” (ski tracks) uphill & downhill

starting from Docksta Havet, Höga Kusten

This is the final steep segment that leads to the finish line at the peak of Skuleberget Mountain during the 43k of the “Höga Kusten Trail” race.

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Trail 9.1Km

Vertical runs: extreme (31.5%↗️) uphill to Skuleberget from Naturum museum and downhill via “Skulebacken” ski slopes

starting from Docksta Havet, Höga Kusten

The #BIG5 EAGLE (Grottanstigen) is really a very steep “climb” but it's the shortest path to go up to the hill and the #BIG5 BEAR (on ski slopes) is the fastest to go down. Going up, you can take a short detour to reach the cave (the Kungsgrottan or Rövargrottan is famous for being visited by Linné in 1732).

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TRAIL 10.3km - D+457m

Trailrunning up to the summit of Skuleberget (11.3%↗️) via Höga Kusten Stigen uphill & downhill

starting from Docksta Havet, Höga Kusten

Relive '🇸🇪 Run | Docksta Havet - Höga Kusten Stigen - Docksta Havet'

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Run 7.3KM - D+142M

Warm-up run around the lake Gällstasjön: clockwise round.

starting from Docksta Havet, Höga Kusten

The full loop around the lake on is perfect for an easy and hilly run. It offers Skuleberget south side views nearly the whole run and passes through the Church, the Linbana and Friluftsbyn.

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TRAILRun 12.2km - D+313m

>10k around Herrestaberget hill training from Docksta to... Docksta!

starting from Docksta Havet, Höga Kusten

Relive '🇸🇪 Run Around Herrestaberget'

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On the High Coast, there is a trailrunning race that will take you across the Skuleskogen national park long and wide and then reach, along the Höga Kusten Leden, the foot of the Skuleberget mountain, and from there it will push you to climb to its top, back down the other side, before climbing back to the summit again until the finish line.

After the summer, in early autumn and in February, when snow and ice cover the trails, hundreds of runners meet in Docksta to participate in the two editions of this prestigious trail run that has no equal in the Scandinavian landscape.

Enjoy in Docksta the Höga Kusten Trail race

Visit hogakustentrail.se >

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Join the "High Coast Runner" club on Strava

#highcoastrunner

Sharing running experiences within the High Coast World Heritage in Sweden.

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TRAIL RUNNING RESOURCES:

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A SELECTION OF OUR FAVORITE VIDEOS:

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your boat safely moored

to experience the best trail runs aronud Docksta & Skuleberget

DOCKSTA HAVET BASE CAMP >

The Skuleberget's #BIG5 uphill challenge boosts trailrunners' souls

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Racing alongside someone in a natural environment elevates the beauty of trailrunning. However, when the experience is connected to a mountain like the Skuleberget, a sort of trace left by the paths remains in the runner’s soul.

One of the most suggestive places for hikers in Sweden is the summit of Mount Skuleberget, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Höga Kusten, or the High Coast. This place is a collection of unforgettable experiences and sensations for runners who enjoy being into the wild.

All year round, hundreds passionates get epic trailrunning sessions in its natural reserve.

The #HighCoastRunner group named the five trails and their steep segments that bring to the summit of the mountain “ELK, FOX, BEAR, EAGLE and LYNX”.

They are the “BIG5 uphill paths” of the Skuleberget.

Every run on these uphills will push you out of your comfort zone.

Know all the #BIG5 segments

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The mountain stands proudly next to the village of Docksta, facing the fjords and the Skuleskogen National Park.

The peak at 296 m above sea level is paradoxically not the most significant point: at a just lower altitude, at 286 meters, there is the highest coastline in the world, which, due to the melting of the ice after the last glacial period, has risen from the sea level and continues to do so today, about 6/8mm per year.

This is where a challenge arose. It’s for athletes, not between athletes.

The #BIG5 Uphills Challenge is a call to gather a handful of daring runners with the goal of completing all five trails—the respective ascending segments, in particular, leading up to the top of the Skuleberget.

How the #BIG5 uphill paths were born

The #BIG5 segments names (and their challenge!) born in the 2019 summer, when two “brave” trailrunners - Johnny and me - wanted to complete one time all of the five uphills up to the peak of the Skuleberget. For the first time in one single long running session.

The first #BIG5 uphills Challenge (2019/07/09)

Johnny and Tom ran the 1st challenge of the 5 uphill segments in the evening, enjoying the summer light, estimating a course of ~20km and 4 hours long. Then, start and finish had been set from the sea level, at the marina in Docksta.

They have completed every uphill by touching the "Skrubban", the bronze sculpture at the summit. That starts to be a tradition when a trailrunner ends the segments by reaching the top.

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Here you see how they ran the sequence of all the #BIG5 paths, in a course of 25km and ~ D+1.414m.

#BIG5pathLYNX uphill -> BEAR downhill -> #BIG5pathELK uphill -> FOX downhill -> #BIG5pathBEAR uphill -> LYNX downhill -> #BIG5pathEAGLE uphill -> ELK downhill -> #BIG5pathFOX uphill -> BEAR downhill

A little history about the #BIG5

Before this trail, we already had considered how difficult is to agree on the names of the segments... people used different names, or not at all, Strava highlights segments with very fancy nicknames, historical paths have lost fame and walkers risk losing them...

The increase in people running on the mountain in recent years was not accompanied by the knowledge of all paths. Many runner didn't even know how to call them, between Swedish definitions and fantasy strava segments.

The mountain fortunately remained largely wild, especially between autumn and spring but the western and northern sides experienced few opportunities to be mentioned and discovered by new runners and hikers. The two editions, in September and February, of the famous race "Höga Kusten Trail," which crosses and ends at the Skuleberget, are carrying competitors only on some of the most popular, the new "Höga Kusten Stigen" and the steep path on the ski slopes.

The “Gula Stigen”, one of the trails historically used to reach the summit from the western side of the mountain, running in the woods to the left of the ski slopes, was entering into oblivion.

It was then that Johnny and me invented the names to make all five ascending trails memorable and we decided to run and highlight them all during a single trailrunning session.

Johnny suggested connecting the five paths to the wild animals that live in these parts and also thought of a name for all the paths: "the BIG5".

That's the simple story of how this adventure began. Then, as soon as it was feasible, we tried to replicate the experience by growing the group, and other runners began to think about it as well. We arranged the second and third iterations of the #BIG5 uphill Challenge in 2022 and 2023.

So, the High Coast Runners did it again. The last two challenges have been held in early “Spring” editions. The runners attacked the steep paths when some of them were still presenting wide, snowy stretches. Definitely a couple of a bit crazy trails, from a weather point of view, with a mountain that gifted its best (sun, wind, snow, mud, icy rocks, and flowing water).

In the three editions to date, there are 10 athletes who have completed the challange: one woman and eight men, from Sweden, Italy, Switzerland and the Netherlands.

#BIG5 UPHILL CHALLENGE - 2022 SPRING EDITION

2022 EDITION of the #BIG5 uphill CHALLENGE

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#BIG5 UPHILL CHALLENGE - 2023 SPRING EDITION

2023 EDITION of the #BIG5 uphill CHALLENGE

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The rules of the #BIG5 uphill Challenge

We set it with very few rules: the challenge is open to everyone; you choose the intensity according to your abilities; there are no time limits; but it must be started and completed within the same 24 hours. To be codified, it must require the participation of at least two athletes to complete it. There's no cash fee and no formal registration. But High Coast Runners always start together :)

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Roots, mud, rocks and stones, branches and trees, berries, lichens and flowers, leaves and pine needles, ice, snow, water, wind, the sound of your steps and the rhythm of your breathing… face the challenge by running or walking on Elk, Fox, Lynx, Beat, and Eagle uphills (for experience, not speed :)

Every walk or run—fast or slow—up to the summit following one of these trails has a proper meaning and will leave emotions in your memory.

Through the year, anyone can challenge themselves on the mountain climbing segments

All the 5 trails at the Skule have their dedicated #stravasegments and the ranks of the runners that completed them.

Set your #PB on the #BIG5 segments registering your running session with the STRAVA app.

Search the segments and join the High Coast Runner club on STRAVA.COM: you are welcome in the group!

Elite runners show impressive Personal Best on these uphills:

#BIG5 ELK segment

#BIG5 EAGLE segment

#BIG5 FOX segment

#BIG5 BEAR segment

#BIG5 LYNX segment

SKULEBERGET MAP

Enjoy the experience to set your new PB!

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The MAP-POSTER above can be customized with your notes to record your #PB on the #BIG5 upphills.

You find it on the E-SHOP: the collections of map posters tailored for trailrunning in the Höga Kusten >

The High Coast Runner group is sharing running experiences within the High Coast World Heritage in Sweden: join the group on Strava.com!

Are you looking for information regarding the Skule #BIG5 and the #HighCoastRunner group?

CONTACT ME:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)
dockstahavet@gmail.com

SHARE YOUR #HighCoastRunner PASSION:

HANG YOUR #HÖGAKUSTEN PASSION ON A WALL:

Trailrunning in the High Coast: the #BIG5 paths of the Skuleberget Mount

The summit of the Skuleberget mountain in Docksta is one of the top destinations for people visiting in Sweden the High Coast UNESCO world heritage.

In every season of the year, a trip at the Skuleberget is a phenomenal opportunity for people and families aiming to have fun spending an exciting day in the Nature.

People running within this natural reserve collect unique sensations and long-lasting memories of epic trailrunning sessions.

The Skuleberget stands proud on its surrounding area and has bagged itself a mountain status even topping out at “only” 296 m above sea level.

It has the character of a real mountain and encompasses its characteristics:

• at 286m a.s.l. on its summit, the world’s highest point of land to have been uplifted by a postglacial isostatic rebound

• natural reserve

• breathtaking views over the fjords and the islands of the archipelago, and over the surrounding mountains and forests

• paths in the woods, walkable safely, and segments on large rocks of red Nordingrå granite

• wide natural areas still wild and parts that became an astonishing playground for hikers, runners, climbers, and skiers

• hosting ski slopes - with an unique seaview! - and a brand new chairlift on the sunny side of the mountain and, at its steep eastern slope, the climbing routes of the "Via Ferrata"

• at its summit, few well positioned shelters and the Toppstugan

• at its feet, the museum Höga Kusten Naturum and the Tourist Center, the Via Ferrata, campsites and accommodation areas, and opportunities for organized outdoor activities (climbing, kayaking, cycling, classes of fitness outdoor).

Trailrunning passionates found at Skuleberget an unique playground because there are at least five different path to follow to run up and down on the mountain.

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The #HighCoastRunner group named these five steep segments: “ELK, FOX, BEAR, EAGLE and LYNX”.

They are the “BIG5 uphill paths” of the Skuleberget.

Every walk or run - fast or slow - up to the summit following one of these trails have a proper meaning and will leave emotions in your memory.

Every run on these uphills will push you out of your comfort zone.

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Know all the #BIG5 segments

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The FOX path at the Skuleberget

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This is the youngest path: it was born in 2017 and it is known as the “Höga Kusten Stigen”.

Facing to southwest, the segment starts strong from the first hundreds of meters in the wood, where it engages you on steeps stairs, roots and stones.

When you're just out of the woods, your track will be an imaginary line drawn on the large rocks that brings you up-up-up to the first peak at the Litoberget.

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From there, it will be a never-ending up and down in the wood again, over rocks and terrain paths of stones and roots before to restart again to firmly climb up to the last technical segment that will slow you to see the Toppstugan at the summit of the Skuleberget.

Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET FOX path [ BIG5™ uphills ]

SHARE YOUR #HIGHCOASTRUNNER PASSION:

Celebrate your session up on the FOX path!

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"SKULEBERGET FOX PATH"

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[ SKULE BIG5 #TAGMUG ]

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The EAGLE path at the Skuleberget

This is the shortest and steepest segment to reach the summit following an almost vertical route on the east face of the mountain.

Starting from the museum, the path takes you directly to the top in just 800 meters, climbing big stones and steep steps of stairs fixed into the rocks.

On this segment, vertical runners and climbers are in their playground, but everyone will really enjoy this mission out of the comfort zone. Remember to have charged your camera: there are breathtaking views from up there that you can’t miss.

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This is a one-way segment, from down to up: to walk it downhill is not recommended. Also wet conditions should have to be avoided, since this hike can become very difficult.

Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET EAGLE path [ BIG5™ uphills ]

SHARE YOUR #HIGHCOASTRUNNER PASSION:

Celebrate your vertical run on the EAGLE path!

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"SKULEBERGET EAGLE PATH"

Sale Price: €20.00 Original Price: €20.00

[ SKULE BIG5 #TAGMUG ]

Color:

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The ELK path at the Skuleberget

You'll love to run or walk this segment because the “old yellow" is probably the most preserved path.

It is one of the historic trails leading to the top of the mountain but now very few hikers know it and is rare to meet people up there even during the summer.

It's marked with yellow dots, on trees & stones and few remaining wooden poles.

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The late afternoon and the evening in the summer is the best moment of the day to be there: the light that filters through the trees from west is magical. It's a wonderful segment if you like trailrunning in the real nordic nature.

Downhill it is very technical: a mix of steep segments and challenging trails into the wood. Rocks and roots to "manage" and continue changes of direction. It's 100% pure fun.

During raining days, a lot of water flows downstream on the trail. It happens also to have to jump over a tree, even large ones, that obstructed the path blown down by the wind. It's impossible to lose the flow during this sort of mindful running…

Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET ELK path [ BIG5™ uphills ]

SHARE YOUR #HIGHCOASTRUNNER PASSION:

Celebrate your exploring the ELK path!

Sale

"SKULEBERGET ELK PATH"

Sale Price: €20.00 Original Price: €20.00

[ SKULE BIG5 #TAGMUG ]

Color:

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The BEAR path at the Skuleberget

The final meters of this segment reaching the summit at the Toppstugan are definitely challenging

Here you are on the ski slopes at the westerly side of the mountain.

The BEAR segment follows the steep terrain road that runs up to the summit from the start of the chairlift (Skulebergets Linbana). It is steep: it starts steep, continues steep, and finishes eve steeper at the summit by reaching the Toppstugan.

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Runners that raced the 43k of Höga Kusten Trail remember this uphill: it represents the shocking final vertical segment that brings them to the finish line (and the second ascend to the peak of the mountain that the competitors run in the last 5k of this fantastic ultra trail).

Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET BEAR PATH [ BIG5™ UPHILLS ]

SHARE YOUR #HIGHCOASTRUNNER PASSION:

Celebrate your steep run on the BEAR path!

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"SKULEBERGET BEAR PATH"

Sale Price: €20.00 Original Price: €20.00

[ SKULE BIG5 #TAGMUG ]

Color:

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The LYNX path at the Skuleberget

If you are in Docksta, don't miss to run this segment, following the northerly path that starts from the east side of the mountain.

If you pass the High Coast tourist center and the museum "Naturum" following the Höga Kusten Leden to North, you find where the LYNX starts: it's a challenging, very steep segment that is shaped on rocks and roots and climbs up in the woods.

It is marked with blue dots of paint on trees and stones. To dominate it, you have to run, walk and also climb, keeping on changing the pace.

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If it's raining hard, you find a lot of mud and water on the trail. In winter, if the snow is deep, it can be really challenging to find the track (check if someone that really knows it have been there marking with his steps the route in the snow before to venture alone up there).

High Coast runners like this two kilometers uphill trail because there is a sort of tension that brings you up despite the rocks, roots and stones. Nevertheless, in summer it is unusual to find many people there: the trail is very technical and to keep effective your proceeding uphill you need to adapt fast your running to approach the different ground surfaces until the last meters of the segment at the peak.

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Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET LYNX PATH [ BIG5™ UPHILLS ]

SHARE YOUR #HIGHCOASTRUNNER PASSION:

Celebrate your hiking the LYNX path!

Sale

"SKULEBERGET LYNX PATH"

Sale Price: €20.00 Original Price: €20.00

[ SKULE BIG5 #TAGMUG ]

Color:

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The #BIG5uphills are calling your name and are waiting for you in Docksta!

If you're based in Docksta, the trails of the Skuleberget are one step away from your front door (and from the piers of the Marina, too).

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All the segments start at a distance that you can cover by running (or walking) during your warm-up.

If you overnight in Docksta or if your boat is moored at the gästhamn, the feet of the mountain are less than 2km from the village.

Trailrunning the #BIG5

High Coast Runner’s tips to get the most of the Skuleberget Mount

Roots, mud, rocks and stones, branches and trees, berries, lichens and flowers, leaves and pine needles, ice, snow, water, wind, the sound of your steps and the rhythm of your breathing.

Take your time to walk or run at the Skule: every path is different, with nuances that you can grasp by opening your real senses. Enjoy the outdoors.

• DRINKING WATER: you don’t need to carry large supplies to hydrate yourself because at the summit you can stock up on drinking water at the sink which is available to the hikers you find at the back of the Toppstugan cabin.

• TOILETS: at the Visitor Center and in the large parking area at the feet of the mountain close to the E4 road. At the summit, close to the Toppstugan and the chairlift's station.

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SHOES: the paths are rough: wear a pair with the necessary grip (you will need it a lot, particularly on the downhill or with wet and icy conditions). You will run on ever-changing surfaces, over rocks and stones, encountering roots almost everywhere but also dirt and mud. On the snow, specific outsoles with deep lugs or metallic studs and a good pair of gaiters are reccommended.

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Be in tune with the mountain

#BIG5 trailrunning ETIQUETTE

• keep the curves and the steps in the trails (or limit your go off trail), to avoid to contribute to the erosion of the path

• leave nothing but footprints (don't litter)

• keep it wild

• say hello to those you meet

• share the experience with other runners

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The MAP-POSTER above can be customized with your notes to record your #PB on the #BIG5 upphills.

You find it on the E-SHOP: the collections of map posters tailored for trailrunning in the Höga Kusten >

How to sequence the #BiG5

Do you have 3 trailrunning sessions to spend in Docksta?

Here we would suggest you how to mix the experiences of these paths at Skuleberget:

DAY 1#

LYNX path UPHILL

FOX path DOWNHILL

DAY 2#

EAGLE (or BEAR) path UPHILL

ELK path DOWNHILL

DAY 3#

FOX path UPHILL

LYNX path DOWNHILL

The High Coast Runner group is sharing running experiences within the High Coast World Heritage in Sweden: join the group on Strava.com!

Do you need info about the Skuleberget #BIG5 and the #HighCoastRunner group?

CONTACT ME:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)
dockstahavet@gmail.com

HÖGA KUSTEN SOUVENIRS

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HÖGA KUSTEN SOUVENIRS 🧭

HANG YOUR #HÖGAKUSTEN PASSION ON A WALL: