Walking trails in Sorsele run alongside the Vindelälven, and Sorsele kyrka also stands on its banks. From this riverside landscape, discoveries range from the church’s architectural history to the story of the Inlandsbanan. A circular trail, a rapid and two museums each offer something different.
Walking along the Vindelälven
The Hälsans stig circular trail is approximately five kilometres long, with signs marking every kilometre. Trail conditions can change seasonally, so check the latest conditions before setting out. A hiking trail also starts at the tourist information centre in the centre of Sorsele.
Stensundsforsen is a rapid on the Vindelälven known for grayling fishing. It is just a short walk from the centre of Sorsele.
Sorsele kyrka and its preserved heritage
Sorsele kyrka was built in seven months in 1859 and inaugurated in 1860. It is one of the best-preserved Neoclassical churches in Upper Norrland. Its location on the banks of the Vindelälven links its architectural history with the riverside landscape that the town’s walking trails also follow.
Much of the original interior is preserved, including the altarpiece, altar rail, altar table, pulpit and gallery. The cemetery also preserves historical details: it contains hand-carved stone memorials, as well as Anders Fjellner’s memorial stone and memorial tree.
Railway and local heritage
The Inlandsbanemuseet is housed in the old freight shed of Sorsele railway station. Visitors can learn how the Inlandsbanan railway was built. The museum connects a specific chapter in the region’s transport history with a historic railway building.
The Sorsele Local Heritage Museum is housed in another building. The original Älvkungen is on display there; the new Älvkungen was completed in 2004. The museum has a café that sells home-baked bread. Local heritage thus encompasses railway history, museum objects and an amenity for visitors.
More places to visit and practical information
The swimming pool in Sorsele offers lane swimming, water aerobics and swimming for the whole family. Opening times may change, so check the latest information before visiting.
About 3.5 kilometres from Sorsele is Benstampen, an old mill and bone-crushing mill built in the late 19th century. It has cultural-historical value and is open to visitors. Access arrangements may vary by season, so it is advisable to check before visiting.
Gimegolts is a 1.5-kilometre-long gorge with vertical walls up to 25 metres high. The Gimegolts Nature Reserve is about 15 kilometres outside Sorsele. Another landscape destination is the Nalovardo Fjäll forest reserve, about 15 kilometres from the centre of Sorsele. Conditions there vary depending on the season.
For practical information, free public Wi-Fi is available at the Sorsele visitor centre at the Inlandsbanan railway station. Service availability may change. With riverside trails, cultural history, a swimming pool and natural attractions, there are several options to consider when planning a stay in Sorsele.
Discover more destinations: Råstrand, Sorsele, Ammarnäs, Blattnicksele, Gargnäs, Vännäs, Nordmaling, Umeå.
Back to the main travel overview: Västerbotten.
