×

Sweden🇸🇪 | national parksSöderåsen National ParkRavines, beech forest, panoramic viewpoints | things to do and best time to go

Explore Tresticklan National ParkExplore Store Mosse National Park

Backpacking in Söderåsen
👍 Recommendednational park ranked #10
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 3, 2026

Your first real fork in the road at Söderåsen is simple but important: do you treat it as a quick day trip from Malmö/Lund, or do you slow down and stay a night nearby? That choice decides whether you just skim the viewpoints or actually feel the place. Söderåsen National Park sits in northwest Skåne, southern Sweden, an easy reach by car or regional bus. It’s a compact canyon-and-ridge park: steep beech forests, rocky viewpoints, calm streams, good marked trails, no entrance fee, and usually plenty of families on weekends. Wildlife is subtle, not dramatic. Wild camping is restricted, so budget travelers end up in nearby campsites or guesthouses. Compared with Skåneleden stretches or Stenshuvud National Park, Söderåsen feels smaller but more dramatic underfoot, less coastal, more about deep green walls and short, honest climbs.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Sweden Travel Guide.


Get your Sweden guide
119 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (446 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL

✨ Why go?
Ranked #10 national park in Sweden
What makes this national park worth exploring

Backpackers flock to Söderåsen National Park for its independent exploration opportunities. The park’s varied trails cater to all skill levels, making it perfect for both novices and seasoned hikers. Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the camping options and nearby hostels, allowing for affordable stays without sacrificing comfort. This park shines for self-guided travelers; you can easily navigate the paths without the need for organized tours. Plus, the natural beauty and tranquility offer a refreshing escape, ensuring you can recharge without the crowds. Just remember to pack enough food and water; amenities are limited once you’re on the trails.
Want to include Söderåsen National Park in your Sweden route?
Create a personalized Sweden itinerary that includes Söderåsen National Park and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsMust-see experiences and standout moments

  • Kopparhatten viewpoint: A classic jaw-dropper — steep cliffs give you sweeping views over the Skäralid valley. Great spot for sunrise or just to sit and watch mists lift off the forest; the short climb up is worth it for the panorama alone.
  • Skäralid gorge: A dramatic ravine carved into the ridge with steep rock walls, shady trails and a burbling stream. Feels wild and primeval compared to the rolling farmland outside the park — excellent for short hikes and photos.
  • Nackarpsdalen and Nackarpssjön: A bowl-like valley with a small, peaceful lake tucked into the bottom. The walk around the lake and the shelter spots make it an ideal lunch or overnight bivvy spot if you’re packing light.
  • Odensjön (the “Odin” lake): A quiet forest lake framed by cliffs and beech trees — very photogenic and
read more 👉
  • Kopparhatten viewpoint: A classic jaw-dropper — steep cliffs give you sweeping views over the Skäralid valley. Great spot for sunrise or just to sit and watch mists lift off the forest; the short climb up is worth it for the panorama alone.
  • Skäralid gorge: A dramatic ravine carved into the ridge with steep rock walls, shady trails and a burbling stream. Feels wild and primeval compared to the rolling farmland outside the park — excellent for short hikes and photos.
  • Nackarpsdalen and Nackarpssjön: A bowl-like valley with a small, peaceful lake tucked into the bottom. The walk around the lake and the shelter spots make it an ideal lunch or overnight bivvy spot if you’re packing light.
  • Odensjön (the “Odin” lake): A quiet forest lake framed by cliffs and beech trees — very photogenic and surprisingly secluded. Good for reflective moments (and cool swims in summer if you dare).
  • Ancient beech forests and spring flora: The park’s old-growth beech stands are lush and layered, especially spectacular in spring when the forest floor bursts with flowers and in autumn when the canopy turns color. Great for slow, immersive walks.
  • Ridge and long-distance trails: The ridge walk gives a different perspective — you move from cliff-top views to deep, forested valleys. Trails are well-marked and range from quick loops to full-day hikes, so you can pick your pace.
  • Birdlife and woodland creatures: Keep an eye and ear out for woodpeckers, owls and deer; the mixed deciduous forest supports a surprising variety of birds and insects. Dawn and dusk are the best times to spot wildlife without the crowds.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do near Söderåsen National Park

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience


  • Weather: Spring and early autumn offer mild, stable weather. Summers can be warm but occasionally rainy, which might dampen plans. Winters are cold, often below freezing, limiting trail access.

  • Temperature: From May to September, expect 15–22°C (59–72°F). Winter months drop to -5 to 0°C (23–32°F), making backpacking less comfortable without proper gear.

  • Daylight Hours: Summer brings long days, with up to 17 hours of daylight in June, maximizing hiking time. Winter days shrink to about 7 hours, restricting outdoor activity.

  • Crowds: Peak season is June to August, when the park sees the most visitors. For solitude, aim for late spring or early autumn, when trails are quieter but still accessible.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring and summer allow for hiking, birdwatching, and swimming in
read more 👉

  • Weather: Spring and early autumn offer mild, stable weather. Summers can be warm but occasionally rainy, which might dampen plans. Winters are cold, often below freezing, limiting trail access.

  • Temperature: From May to September, expect 15–22°C (59–72°F). Winter months drop to -5 to 0°C (23–32°F), making backpacking less comfortable without proper gear.

  • Daylight Hours: Summer brings long days, with up to 17 hours of daylight in June, maximizing hiking time. Winter days shrink to about 7 hours, restricting outdoor activity.

  • Crowds: Peak season is June to August, when the park sees the most visitors. For solitude, aim for late spring or early autumn, when trails are quieter but still accessible.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring and summer allow for hiking, birdwatching, and swimming in lakes. Autumn colors add a visual bonus. Winter is mostly for experienced hikers prepared for snow and ice.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs rise in summer. Booking outside peak months can save money and avoid sold-out options.


Pro-tip: Visit in late May or early September to balance pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better prices—perfect for a focused, enjoyable backpacking trip.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: below average for travelingFEBFebruary: below average for travelingMARMarch: fair for travelingAPRApril: good for travelingMAYMay: excellent for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: highly recommended for travelingAUGAugust: good for travelingSEPSeptember: excellent for travelingOCTOctober: highly recommended for travelingNOVNovember: fair for travelingDECDecember: below average for traveling
when-to-go

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutSweden Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Sweden
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Sweden
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Sweden
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Sweden
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Sweden
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Sweden
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Sweden
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Sweden
The digital guide (446 pages) contains:
119 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
Optimized 5, 10 & 15-day travel routes
Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
How to get around
Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
Month by month travel advice
Festivals & national holidays
Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
Honest pros & cons of destinations
Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
Lesser-known places most travelers miss
Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
Best areas to stay
Transport systems explained simply
Common scams & safety advice
SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
Culture & traditions
52 Essential phrases & customs
Festivals worth planning around
Traveler-friendly historical context
Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
Fully downloadable PDF
Works completely offline
Optimized for phone use
Useful in remote areas & buses
Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.


By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Sweden

Söderåsen National Park doesn’t have accommodations within its borders, but nearby towns offer solid options. In the village of Ljungbyhed, you’ll find cozy hostels and guesthouses that cater to backpackers. If you prefer a bit more charm, head to the town of Åstorp, where you can find budget-friendly hotels and B&Bs.

Consider camping if you want to immerse yourself in nature. There are designated camping areas just outside the park. Always check for any fees or permits required. This way, you preserve your energy and budget for the trails and views that truly matter.

👛 Costs (as of 12 August 2025)What things cost and how to budget

Söderåsen National Park in Sweden is a fantastic destination, but knowing the costs can save you from unexpected surprises.

Entry to the park is free, which is a great start. However, if you plan to park your vehicle, expect to pay around €5 to €10 per day for parking. This fee can vary based on the season and specific parking areas, so keep an eye out for signs.

If you’re looking to stay overnight, there are a few options. Campsites in the area typically charge between €15 and €30 per night. For those preferring a cabin or more comfortable lodging, prices can range from €70 to €150 per night, depending on the amenities and time of year.

Food costs can also add up. If you’re dining at local eateries, budget around €10 to €20 for a meal. Grocery stores are available if you prefer to cook, … read more 👉
Söderåsen National Park in Sweden is a fantastic destination, but knowing the costs can save you from unexpected surprises.

Entry to the park is free, which is a great start. However, if you plan to park your vehicle, expect to pay around €5 to €10 per day for parking. This fee can vary based on the season and specific parking areas, so keep an eye out for signs.

If you’re looking to stay overnight, there are a few options. Campsites in the area typically charge between €15 and €30 per night. For those preferring a cabin or more comfortable lodging, prices can range from €70 to €150 per night, depending on the amenities and time of year.

Food costs can also add up. If you’re dining at local eateries, budget around €10 to €20 for a meal. Grocery stores are available if you prefer to cook, which can help keep your expenses down.

Lastly, consider any guided tours or activities. These can range from €20 to €100, depending on the experience.

Being aware of these costs will help you manage your budget effectively, allowing you to focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes and trails without financial stress.
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🥾 TrailsBest hikes in Söderåsen national park

Söderåsen National Park is a hidden gem in Sweden, offering a mix of lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and serene lakes. The terrain is varied, with everything from gentle slopes to steeper sections that will get your heart pumping. As you wander through, keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of birds—it’s a wildlife lover’s paradise. The trails here are well-marked, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

One of the standout trails is Röda Stigen. Here’s the lowdown:
  • Length: 5 km
  • Estimated Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Key Features: Scenic viewpoints, old oak trees, and
read more 👉
Söderåsen National Park is a hidden gem in Sweden, offering a mix of lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and serene lakes. The terrain is varied, with everything from gentle slopes to steeper sections that will get your heart pumping. As you wander through, keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of birds—it’s a wildlife lover’s paradise. The trails here are well-marked, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

One of the standout trails is Röda Stigen. Here’s the lowdown:
  • Length: 5 km
  • Estimated Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Key Features: Scenic viewpoints, old oak trees, and beautiful streams
  • Terrain: Mixed, with some rocky and steep sections

For those looking for a bit more challenge, the Grå Stigen trail is also worth checking out:
  • Length: 8 km
  • Estimated Duration: 3-4 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
  • Key Features: Stunning cliffs and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
  • Terrain: Varied, with steep climbs and descents

Getting to Söderåsen is pretty straightforward. You can hop on a train to nearby Höganäs and then take a bus or bike the rest of the way. It’s not overly crowded, especially if you visit during weekdays or off-peak seasons, so you can enjoy the tranquility of nature. As for entrance fees, the park is free to enter, which is always a bonus for budget travelers. Just pack some snacks, lace up those hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure!
⚠️ 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

Söderåsen National Park is generally straightforward for hikers, but a few practical considerations can enhance your experience. Weather can shift quickly, so pack layers and a reliable rain jacket. The terrain is varied, with some steep sections and roots that can trip you up, so watch your footing.

Wildlife is present, including deer and boars; keep a respectful distance and don’t feed them. Lastly, be mindful of trail etiquette—yield to those climbing uphill and keep noise to a minimum. With these tips, you’ll preserve your energy and budget for the moments that truly matter.

Other Swedish national parks near Söderåsen

Explore more nearby:


💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Sweden including Söderåsen and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all national parks

Or checkout all Sweden has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Country photo of Sweden

We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

Söderåsen National Park is a treasure for its lush beech forests and stunning ravines. But be prepared: the trails can get muddy, especially after rain. Bring sturdy boots to keep your feet happy. It’s all about enjoying the wild without the hassle.

✈️ 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.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

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.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Get full Sweden guide •
Instant download • 119 highlights • Full Offline guide