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Sweden🇸🇪 | hikesUpplandsledenmeadow paths, medieval ruins, bird wetlands | things to do and best time to go

Explore BohusledenExplore Blekingeleden

Backpacking in Upplandsleden
👀 For curious travelershike ranked #9
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 16, 2026

You have to choose on Upplandsleden: do you commit to a multi-day thru-hike, or cherry-pick a day section and sleep in your own bed in Stockholm? That decision shapes everything—your pack weight, your pace, even how much you notice the quiet beauty instead of just grinding miles. Upplandsleden runs through Uppland, just north of Stockholm, threading forests, lakes, and farmland in a long, orange-marked ribbon. It’s easy to reach by commuter train or bus, which makes it far more accessible than wilder Swedish trails like Jämtlandstriangeln, but also less dramatic: think gentle pine woods, bog boards, rune stones, and bird calls instead of big mountain panoramas. The walking is mostly easy, sometimes muddy, occasionally monotonous—but when you hit a wind shelter by a mirror-flat lake, coffee steaming in your hand, it absolutely earns its keep.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Sweden Travel Guide.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 30 days
Distance: 400 kilometers
Total ascent: 5,000 meters


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✨ Why go?
Ranked #9 hike in SwedenWhat makes it a must-see hike

The Upplandsleden trail in Sweden is a magnet for backpackers craving a mix of challenge and reward. Picture this: you’re striding through lush forests, the scent of pine filling the air, while the trail weaves alongside shimmering lakes. The scenery-to-effort ratio is unbeatable; you’ll sweat, but the views are worth every drop.

Access is a breeze with public transport options that drop you right at the trailhead. You can customize your journey with flexible distances, making it perfect for both weekend warriors and seasoned trekkers. Whether you tackle a day hike or stretch it into a multi-day adventure, the trail fits seamlessly into a longer backpacking route across Sweden.

And let’s not forget the low cost—no fancy permits or pricey lodges here. Just you, your pack, and the thrill … read more 👉
The Upplandsleden trail in Sweden is a magnet for backpackers craving a mix of challenge and reward. Picture this: you’re striding through lush forests, the scent of pine filling the air, while the trail weaves alongside shimmering lakes. The scenery-to-effort ratio is unbeatable; you’ll sweat, but the views are worth every drop.

Access is a breeze with public transport options that drop you right at the trailhead. You can customize your journey with flexible distances, making it perfect for both weekend warriors and seasoned trekkers. Whether you tackle a day hike or stretch it into a multi-day adventure, the trail fits seamlessly into a longer backpacking route across Sweden.

And let’s not forget the low cost—no fancy permits or pricey lodges here. Just you, your pack, and the thrill of the wild. After a long day, nothing beats that first cold beer at a local pub, celebrating the grit of the trail and the beauty of the journey.
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💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while hiking the Upplandsleden

  1. Gamla Uppsala mounds — Huge Bronze/Iron-Age burial mounds that hit you with real history vibes; standing next to them makes the Viking-era archaeology feel immediate, and the surrounding ridge gives a surprisingly panoramic view compared with the otherwise low-lying landscape.
  2. Sigtuna and the Mälaren shoreline — Sweden’s oldest town with cobbled streets, rune stones and coffee stops right on the lake; the town + shoreline sections contrast the forested interior with open water, great light for sunset and easy resupply if you’re multi-day hiking.
  3. Esker ridges — Long, sandy glacial ridges that run like natural boardwalks above the forests; they give uncommon long sightlines, varied underfoot (sand, heather, pine) and small micro-landscapes you don’t get on flatter trails.
  4. Lake and archipelago
… read more 👉
  1. Gamla Uppsala mounds — Huge Bronze/Iron-Age burial mounds that hit you with real history vibes; standing next to them makes the Viking-era archaeology feel immediate, and the surrounding ridge gives a surprisingly panoramic view compared with the otherwise low-lying landscape.
  2. Sigtuna and the Mälaren shoreline — Sweden’s oldest town with cobbled streets, rune stones and coffee stops right on the lake; the town + shoreline sections contrast the forested interior with open water, great light for sunset and easy resupply if you’re multi-day hiking.
  3. Esker ridges — Long, sandy glacial ridges that run like natural boardwalks above the forests; they give uncommon long sightlines, varied underfoot (sand, heather, pine) and small micro-landscapes you don’t get on flatter trails.
  4. Lake and archipelago stretches — Where the trail meets Mälaren and coastal waterways you get islands, rocky bangs, and seabird action; these sections mix cliffy paddling-friendly shoreline with calm bays and instant day-hike payoff for photographers.
  5. Quiet pine forests, mires and wildlife — Long, uncluttered boreal sections where moose, beaver signs and a thick chorus of birds are the main company; the sense of solitude and seasonal shifts (spring migration, autumn color) is what turns a walk into a proper wilderness escape.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do near Upplandsleden

Cube of Art Uppsala Museum of Interactive Art

Cube of Art Uppsala Museum of Interactive Art

4.7(78) 1h
✓ Free cancellation
From €17.54
per personViator
Roofwalking on the worlds greatest pink castle!

Roofwalking on the worlds greatest pink castle!

4.8(16) 1h 30m
From €65
per personViator
The Best of Uppsala: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

The Best of Uppsala: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

4.9(9)
✓ Free cancellation
From €13.41
per personViator
Uppsala Must See 2h city walk - 2h tour of all big attractions!

Uppsala Must See 2h city walk - 2h tour of all big attractions!

5.0(6) 2h
✓ Free cancellation
From €92
per personViator
Guided tour 90min at Old Uppsala mounds and old Uppsala church

Guided tour 90min at Old Uppsala mounds and old Uppsala church

4.7(6) 1h 30m
✓ Free cancellation
From €93
per personViator
Uppsala bloody history 1h- racial biology, 18th century plague, 19th century prostitution etc.

Uppsala bloody history 1h- racial biology, 18th century plague, 19th century prostitution etc.

5.0(5) 1h
✓ Free cancellation
From €32
per personViator
Uppsala Self-Guided City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt

Uppsala Self-Guided City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt

5.0(4) 2h
✓ Free cancellation
From €5
per personViator
Adventure parc

Adventure parc

4.7(3) 1h 30m
From €46
per personViator
Uppsala Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

Uppsala Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

3.8(4) 2h
✓ Free cancellation
From €19.95
per personViator
Uppsala's biggest attractions - 1h city walk in Uppsala city.

Uppsala's biggest attractions - 1h city walk in Uppsala city.

4.3(3) 1h
✓ Free cancellation
From €80
per personViator

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🌤️ When to go?Best time to hike the Upplandsleden


  • Weather: Spring and early autumn bring crisp air and fewer bugs, but expect rain and muddy trails. Summer offers dry, stable conditions, perfect for pounding the dirt without slipping.

  • Temperature: From May to September, temperatures hover between 10°C and 22°C (50°F to 72°F), ideal for sweating it out without overheating or freezing your fingers off.

  • Daylight Hours: Summer floods the trail with up to 18 hours of light, giving you freedom to push hard or savor slow moments. Winter’s short days limit hiking time drastically.

  • Crowds: July and August see the most hikers, especially on weekends. For solitude, aim for late May or early September when the trail thins out but the weather still cooperates.

  • Seasonal Activities: Summer opens up swimming spots and fishing along the route,
… read more 👉

  • Weather: Spring and early autumn bring crisp air and fewer bugs, but expect rain and muddy trails. Summer offers dry, stable conditions, perfect for pounding the dirt without slipping.

  • Temperature: From May to September, temperatures hover between 10°C and 22°C (50°F to 72°F), ideal for sweating it out without overheating or freezing your fingers off.

  • Daylight Hours: Summer floods the trail with up to 18 hours of light, giving you freedom to push hard or savor slow moments. Winter’s short days limit hiking time drastically.

  • Crowds: July and August see the most hikers, especially on weekends. For solitude, aim for late May or early September when the trail thins out but the weather still cooperates.

  • Seasonal Activities: Summer opens up swimming spots and fishing along the route, while autumn paints the forest in fiery colors, adding a visual punch to every step.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs spike in high summer. Booking outside peak months can save you cash and hassle.


Pro-tip: Start your hike early in the season to dodge crowds, enjoy cooler temps, and catch the trail waking up after winter’s grip.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: below average for travelingFEBFebruary: below average for travelingMARMarch: fair for travelingAPRApril: good for travelingMAYMay: highly recommended for travelingJUNJune: excellent for travelingJULJuly: highly recommended for travelingAUGAugust: highly recommended for travelingSEPSeptember: highly recommended for travelingOCTOctober: good for travelingNOVNovember: fair for travelingDECDecember: below average for traveling
sweden-hike-upplandsleden
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🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option.

Best hostels in Sweden


Best quality hotels in Sweden

🥾 Hike detailsRoute, distance, and difficulty explained

Total Distance: The Upplandsleden trail stretches about 440 kilometers (around 273 miles) in total, but you can hike it in sections if you’re not up for the whole thing.

Estimated Duration: Depending on how fast you hike and how many breaks you take, completing a section could take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Most folks tackle it in segments, averaging about 15-20 kilometers (9-12 miles) a day.

Difficulty Level: The trail is generally considered moderate. You’ll encounter some rocky paths and a few steep inclines, but nothing too crazy if you’re used to hiking. Just be prepared … read more 👉
Total Distance: The Upplandsleden trail stretches about 440 kilometers (around 273 miles) in total, but you can hike it in sections if you’re not up for the whole thing.

Estimated Duration: Depending on how fast you hike and how many breaks you take, completing a section could take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Most folks tackle it in segments, averaging about 15-20 kilometers (9-12 miles) a day.

Difficulty Level: The trail is generally considered moderate. You’ll encounter some rocky paths and a few steep inclines, but nothing too crazy if you’re used to hiking. Just be prepared for some uneven terrain.

Starting Point: A popular starting point is Uppsala. You can easily reach it by taking a train from Stockholm, which takes about 40 minutes. Once in Uppsala, you can hop on local buses or head to the trailhead at Uppsala University.

Major Landmarks Along the Route:
  • Uppsala Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral that’s worth a quick detour.
  • Gamla Uppsala: Historical burial mounds and remnants of an ancient royal site.
  • Lake Mälaren: Beautiful views and great spots for a swim or a picnic.
  • Örsundsbro: A charming village with cafes and shops for resupplying.

Type of Terrain and Scenery: The trail features a mix of forest paths, rocky outcrops, and lakeside trails. You’ll wander through lush woodlands, open fields, and occasionally get some breathtaking views from higher ground. It’s a real treat for nature lovers.

Typical Vegetation and Wildlife: Expect to see a variety of trees like birch, pine, and oak. In terms of wildlife, you might catch glimpses of deer, moose, and a variety of birds. Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional fox or hare, too. Just remember, they’re probably more scared of you than you are of them!
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

The Upplandsleden trail offers a straightforward yet invigorating experience, perfect for both newbies and seasoned hikers. Expect variable weather; it can shift from sunny to rainy in a heartbeat. Dress in layers and pack a reliable rain jacket.

The terrain is mostly well-marked, but watch for rocky sections and occasional muddy patches. Navigation is generally easy, but a map or GPS can save you from unnecessary detours. River crossings are manageable, just take your time and choose stable rocks.

Wildlife is part of the charm. You might spot moose or deer; keep your distance and don’t feed them. Respect the trail etiquette—leave no trace and be courteous to fellow hikers. With the right preparation, you’ll find the journey rewarding, culminating in breathtaking views and the satisfaction of conquering the trail.
Check Country Safety

Other Swedish hikes near Upplandsleden

Explore more nearby:

  • Sörmlandsleden—lakeside trails, mixed forests, Bronze Age sites| 76 km away
  • Vasaloppsleden—historic route, spruce forest, open moorland| 281 km away
  • Bohusleden—granite outcrops, deep forests, freshwater lakes| 362 km away

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We 💚 feedbackKey takeaways before you go

Upplandsleden is a true playground for the senses. The crisp air and the crunch of pine needles underfoot create a rhythm that pulls you deeper into the wild. But be ready for the mud—some sections can be a slog, especially after rain. Embrace the grit, though; the reward is a panoramic view from the ridges that makes every step worth it. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s absolutely invigorating.

✈️ When did I visit Sweden?
Having played floorball (famous sport in Sweden, known as innebandy) for many years, I have visited Sweden many times too in the years between 1999 and 2012.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Sweden, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

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