Swedish Lapland is a wild region dominated by cold. There are breathtaking mountains and crystal-clear lakes. They are preserved by the absence of human action. There are many things to see in Abisko National Park, where one can feel the essence of Sweden at its most natural. The flora and fauna leave breathtaking landscapes. They will not leave anyone who decides to enter this territory indifferent.
If you want to discover remote places, far from humanity, glacial rivers, and unique hiking trails, a trip to Abisko is a unique experience. You can also watch the breathtaking Northern Lights from Mount Nuolja. Also, see the majestic elk that inhabit the region. Today we tell you everything there is to see and do in Abisko.
1. The Abisko Canyon
In the spectacular melting pot of wilderness that is Abisko Park, there is one place to see that particularly stands out. This is Abisko Canyon. Visiting it is a unique experience, which can be enjoyed in different ways depending on the weather and season of the year.
If you approach the isolated Abisko during the summer or periods when the cold is not so strong, you will find a real spectacle where nature will thrill you, with the green tones of the local flora and the agitated animals. Abisko Canyon (or Abiskojåkka) flows into Lake Torneträsk. To get there, it is recommended to take the road along the river. It will allow you to enjoy the unique landscapes that nature has to offer.
It is a route that we recommend to all travelers. It is very easy to do and its access is particularly easy, suitable for all types of hikers. Along the route, many explanations are given about the different types of flora and fauna that can be found along the way. So this is something to add to your list of things to see in Abisko.
2. Road to Lake Rissajaure
Among the other fantastic routes to see Abrisko and its surroundings, the path that leads to Lake Rissajaure stands out. It is a true natural wonder, with winding paths interspersed with rocky landscapes and tributaries of the river flowing out of the Kärkevagge valley.
Although it is truly impressive and worth adding to your list of things to do in Abrisko, the route to the lake is a more difficult hike than that of the Abisko Gorge. It will take you 7-8 hours to complete the entire route, which is approximately 12 kilometers. The route begins near the railway tracks, where huge freight trains carrying iron ore from Kiruna often pass.
All along the road to Rissajaure, you will find vestiges of Sami civilizations. Also, many animals are part of the ecosystem, including the elusive reindeer that have been raised by the Sami for centuries. In addition, the particular color of the meadows and mountains offers a striking visual spectacle, which culminates upon arrival at Lake Rissajaure, also known as “Troll Lake”.
3. Aurora Sky Station and Mount Nuolja
As you may know, in the Swedish Lapland region where Abisko Sweden is located, it is not uncommon for travelers to venture out to try to witness the spectacular light phenomenon that is the Northern Lights. To this end, there are a few spots created by locals to better appreciate the Northern Lights that can be seen in Abisko, such as the Aurora Sky Station.
The Aurora Sky Station is located on Mount Nuolja, close to the Abisko National Park, where, especially in the summer months, chairlift trips are organized to the top of the mountain, where the Aurora Sky Station is located Sky, a viewpoint perfectly designed to observe the Northern Lights.
It’s a great place not only to admire the Northern Lights (if you’re lucky enough to see them on your trip) but also to marvel at the panoramic views of the entire landscape of Abisko National Park – a truly nuanced natural image of breathtaking mountains and vegetation.
4. Winter Excursions in Abisko Park
If you venture into the secluded Abisko Park during the winter season, you will discover a very different Sweden, with fewer daylight hours and a temperature that challenges the body and mind. You will also be able to admire some of Abisko’s most breathtaking scenery and enjoy a range of activities that can only be seen at this time of year.
Of course, the most striking attraction to visiting Abisko at this time of year is the Aurora Borealis, which is a unique natural event that can only be witnessed in parts of the regions closest to the polar circles. In addition, when temperatures drop, other characteristic elements of these regions appear, such as the majestic elk, imposing animals that are rarely seen and that is why different tours are organized to observe them.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, a snowmobile tour is a great option. It’s a very pleasant feeling because you can appreciate the white-tinged landscape that characterizes this time of year. You can also rent equipment such as skis or snowshoes, which will allow you to continue enjoying hiking during the cold of winter.