A 24-kilometre stretch of the Ljusnan, free from dams and other development, defines the Mellanljusnan Nature Reserve between Laforsen and Korskrogen. Free-flowing rapids, surrounding woodland and landforms shaped by the river and inland ice characterise the area. Its rich flora and fauna are also part of this natural environment. As you explore, you’ll encounter a landscape whose features are closely connected to the course of the river.
Trails along the Ljusnan and views across the valley
Marked hiking trails run along both sides of the river in the nature reserve. Six access points have information boards and parking; rest areas, a campsite and shelters are also available. After significant weather events, it’s worth checking local conditions.
The Flottarstigen runs from Färila to Laforsen along the southern bank of the Ljusnan, follows the same route as the Helgonleden and passes mostly through the Mellanljusnan Nature Reserve. The Helgonleden is a pilgrimage route from Uppland towards Nidaros (Trondheim); from Färila, it too follows the southern bank. Here, a trail with a clearly defined section meets a longer pilgrimage route. Near Hoppströmmen, a wooden boardwalk runs alongside the Flottarstigen and is also suitable for wheelchair users.
For a different view across the valley, head to Järvsöklack. From the nature reserve car park, a 1,350-metre trail leads to the summit, with 200 metres of elevation gain. At the top, the view stretches far across the Ljusnan valley. These figures give you a clear idea of the trail and climb, while the view brings the landscape into focus.
Farmsteads, mining and living culture
Fågelsjö Gammelgård, also known as Bortom Åa, is one of the seven Hälsingland farmhouses added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on 1 July 2012. On guided tours, you can see preserved historic buildings, including the old gunsmith’s workshop, the servants’ quarters and the storehouse with its seven locks. Exploring the individual rooms and buildings brings the farmstead to life beyond its designation. Visits are guided; check current tour dates before your visit.
Loos Koboltgruva combines a working-life museum with guided tours offered in various formats throughout the year. The two wings of the mine building house a historical exhibition and a mineral collection. Available tours may vary by season. A visit to the museum thus combines a look at working life and history with a collection focused on minerals.
Stenegård is a historic farmstead where culture, gardens, food and people come together. Experiences, events and creative activities are available throughout the year. Historical and garden tours are seasonal; group tours can be booked year-round. At Stenegård, the Lill-Babs Museum offers insight into the artist’s life and work through texts, pictures and objects.
Ljusdalsbygdens Museum offers a wide-ranging exhibition programme with a strong educational focus. A weaving room and the “Slöjdverkstan” are also part of the offer; the workshop provides educational craft activities for children and young people. Dates and opportunities to take part may vary. Public art offers another perspective beyond the museum: murals in the area around Bagargränd shape the local street-art scene, and there are also numerous public artworks in Slotteområdet and the Gärdeåsen residential area.
Activities and practical information
For cycling, Cykla Järvsö has more than 30 kilometres of safely and sustainably designed mountain-bike trails in the forest. There are 42 routes in total for different experience levels. As the trail network may change, check current trail conditions before setting out.
In snow-reliable Harsa, there are up to 85 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails, provided the entire trail system is open. Check the current opening status when planning a winter visit. Vildriket is also easy to reach on foot: it’s just under one kilometre from Järvsö station. At Vildriket, a wooden boardwalk winds through a natural woodland landscape.
Naturkartan can help you find nature reserves, hiking trails, cycling routes and national parks in Ljusdal Municipality. The municipal tourist information centre provides information about the entire municipality year-round and is located in the old station building in Järvsö. You can organise your discoveries around your own interests, from river landscapes and cultural sites to trails and outdoor activities.
Discover more destinations: Färila, Järvsö, Ljusdal, Hamra, Korskrogen, Ockelbo, Hudiksvall and Nordanstig.
Go to the main travel overview: Gävleborg.
