In Abisko National Park, birch forests, open heathland and meadows meet rugged, sparsely vegetated mountain areas. Its plant life is among the richest in species in the Swedish mountains. When planning your stay, consider whether you mainly want to explore trails and landscapes or include seasonal excursions on Nuolja.
Hiking trails between the canyon, lake and mountains
The Kungsleden passes through the area, running south between Lapporten (Čuonjavággi) and Mount Njullá (Nuolja). For a different perspective, visit the Abiskoeatnu Canyon, a striking gorge near Naturum Abisko and the tourist station. An accessible trail runs along the canyon. The Hälsoslingan Fågelkullen passes the deep canyon; from the wind shelter on Fågelkullen, you can enjoy wide-ranging views.
For a trip to the water, the trail to the shore of Torneträsk is about 1.2 kilometres one way. In the surrounding birch heath, you may spot western yellow wagtails and bluethroats along the way; sightings are not guaranteed. There is also an accessible fireplace with benches and information about Torneträsk on the shore.
Two similarly named trails lead to different discoveries. The Njakajaure Nature Trail follows the orange-marked trail and the Kungsleden for just under three kilometres to Marmorbrottet. Some marble was quarried there in the 19th century. The Hälsoslingan Njakajauristigen offers insights into several of the park’s habitat types and views of the Abiskojokk and Lapporten. In summer, flowers such as the alpine pasqueflower and Lapland rosebay may bloom along the trail.
Naturum and Samevistet
Naturum Abisko’s permanent exhibition showcases the national park’s plant and animal life, geology and history. In summer, the visitor centre offers guided tours and other activities; check the dates before your trip. Samevistet is a reconstruction of life in a settlement used in autumn and spring. You can see storage buildings, kåtas and drying racks. STF Abisko sells guided tours there; availability may vary.
Summer hikes and winter excursions
Several hiking trails start from the STF Aurora Sky Station. The guided Midnight Sun hike goes from the station at 900 metres to the summit of Nuolja at 1,164 metres; a return cable car ticket is included in the tour. This seasonal offer may vary, so it is worth checking the latest dates. In summer, the cable car reaches an altitude of 900 metres above sea level in about 20 minutes.
In winter, you can go ski touring from the Aurora Sky Station and take in views of the Abisko Alps and Torneträsk. The Glidaren route heads south on a gentle descent for a short distance towards Kårsavagge; snow and safety conditions vary. Abisko Adventure offers guided ski tours for beginners and for guests looking for guided off-piste skiing. Booking is required, and conditions may vary.
The Northern Lights may also be a focus of your trip: the Abisko National Park often has clear skies between the surrounding mountains, even when neighbouring areas are cloudy. This makes it one of Sweden’s most reliable places for Northern Lights viewing. However, sightings are not guaranteed, as they also depend on the weather and solar activity.
Getting around and staying in the area
Abisko turist railway station is in the national park, about 800 metres from STF Abisko Turiststation and Naturum Abisko. Local trails may change, so bear this in mind when finding your way around. A wood-fired sauna is located on the shore of Torneträsk, about one kilometre from the tourist station; check the booking information in advance.
At STF Abisko Turiststation, the Kungsleden restaurant uses local ingredients whenever possible. The station shop sells and rents outdoor clothing and equipment. In Abisko, Fjällinformationen offers tips for excursions in the surrounding area from experienced guides. Together with the range of hiking and winter activities, these resources can help you tailor your stay to the season and your planned activities.
Discover more destinations: Vittangi, Lannavaara, Riksgränsen, Karesuando, Björkliden, Kiruna.
Go to the main travel overview: Kiruna.
