The summer solstice is celebrated in June over a long weekend, and is known as "Mittsommar" in Sweden. It honors the longest day of the year.
But since the High Coast is above 60° North latitude, both June and July celebrate endless summer days that have 24 hours of daylight to enjoy!
Spending time outside right now is ideal to explore the Höga Kusten Unesco World Heritage.
During one of these bright "nights" and when the sun just dips a few degrees below the horizon, can you image yourself traversing the Slåttdalsskrevan cracks and hiking the Skuleskogen trails?
This is specifically the subject matter I wish to cover on the summers excursion in Skuleskogen, (and there could be no better base in Docksta where to leave for an unforgettable outdoor experience at the national park ;)
Step by step, along the nicest paths in the Skuleskogen in summertime.
This trek rocks.
MAP: hike the best trails at the Skuleskogen national park
🧭
~11.4KM, D+321m, ~4/6Hrs
(medium difficulty)
🔵 Leave your car at the Southern Entrance of the park (Entré Syd);
🟡 start heading to “Näskebodarna” on the beautiful path between the forest and the sea that follows the coastline;
🟠 then, hike up along the trail (blue markings) to reach the "Tärnättvattnen" lakes and packed dinner there;
⚫ next, in the midnight summer light and with a certain "Lord of the Rings" suggestion, traverse the 7 meters wide, 30 meters deep “Slåttdals” crevice (“Slåttdalsskrevan”) from north to south.
🔴 from there, up on the short segment that climbs on the "Slottdalsberget" hill summit for coffee and chat with an overview of the whole archipelago;
🟣 downhill from the summit, and slow walk back in the forest along the path marked with orange dots (boardwalks on about half of the segment);
🔵 ending greeting of the day and the reborn sun with breakfast or a packed snack on the beach at “Kälaviken”, before to return to the parking of the Southern Entrance.
Tips and recommendations for your overnight hike
Pack lightly because the trail is tough. Only bring what is necessary to ensure that your hike is safe and pleasant enough in your backpack.
There are no shops or bars nearby! Carry your own food and water, including coffee or te. Stay hydrated and consider that you'll burn a lot of calories.
Even in the summer, the weather might quickly change. Be sure you are dressed appropriately. The paths are rough and some sections are challenging, with many rocks and roots: a pair of shoes with a good grip is highly recommended (you will need it a lot, particularly on the downhill or with wet conditions). Even a light pair of gloves to keep your hands safe when resting against the rocks might be helpful.
To orient yourself, stay on the indicated paths and follow the signs. Don't rely exclusively on your smartphone, which might not have reception or have a low charge, and instead bring a map of the national park with you. The permitted fireplaces and restrooms that are located along the trail are highlighted on the maps.
Beautiful spots are available to pause for a late dip at Kälaviken's sandy beach and the fresh waters of the lakes. Be mindful that while you could be hot after your hike, water is typically cold.
WHERE YOU FIND TOILETS: Entré Syd, Näskebodarna, Tärnättvattnen, Kälaviken.
There are alternative trails and routes, of course, but I advise taking this trek at Skuleskogen* (during the summer) because it's balanced to give you a memorable experience of the national park's top locations and scenery.
(*) It's a hike that I have tested and wholeheartedly endorse. @Tominthehighcoast :)
BE IN TUNE WITH THE PARK
#SKULESKOGEN 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 hikers
See also: safety and rules within Skuleskogen National Park >
Recommended places to overnight nearby the Skuleskogen National Park:
