THE KUNGSLEDEN — A GOOD INTRODUCTION TO THE WILD

Stretching over 400 kilometres through Lapland, the Kungsleden (King’s Trail) leads from Abisko south across vast glacial valleys and silent peaks. Here, the air is pure, the water drinkable straight from the streams, and the horizon unbroken for miles.

Travelling this route with teenagers transforms the hike into something more than a walk — it becomes a shared rite of passage. Together, you learn to read the sky, pitch rhythm against the landscape, and find joy in the simplicity of movement. STF cabins offer rest, warmth, and sometimes even a sauna — a well-earned comfort after long days on the trail.

The section between Abisko and Nikkaluokta, about 110 kilometres, is ideal for families seeking a real yet safe wilderness experience. Demanding enough to test endurance, generous enough to reward curiosity — the Kungsleden is where young hikers discover the wild and, perhaps, a new sense of self.

Preparation is key: this is a remote landscape where conditions change quickly. Even in summer, storms can roll in within minutes. Good, tested equipment and experience in hiking are essential, especially for the adults. With the right mindset and preparation, though, this trail offers one of the purest, most memorable outdoor experiences in Europe.