Practical information
The Nordkalottleden, or Arctic Trail, stretches about 750 km through the wild landscapes of Northern Finland, Norway, and Sweden. It’s remote, quiet, and far from daily life. It’s not a hard trail, but it demands self-reliance. If you crave wilderness and solitude, this is the trail for you.
My journey
In the summer of 2024, I set out on one of Europe’s most remote long-distance hikes: the Nordkalottleden. This 750 km trail weaves through the stunning Arctic wilderness of Norway, Sweden, and Finland, offering solitude, raw nature, and a powerful sense of freedom. My journey, spread over several weeks, was a mix of wild beauty, unexpected challenges, and unforgettable encounters.
I began in Sulitjelma, Norway, climbing steep gravel roads and crossing icy rivers toward the first hut. The early section followed Sweden’s Padjelantaleden, offering sunny Arctic weather, beautiful lakes, and scenic mountain passes. The trail was quiet, and I often walked alone for hours, soaking in the peaceful landscapes. Days blurred into a rhythm: hike, eat, camp, repeat.
As I moved from Ritsem to Abisko, the trail became wilder and tougher—long stretches without clear paths, constant rain, and powerful winds tested my mental and physical endurance. At times, I relied solely on GPS and cairns to navigate. I slept in my tent or in huts run by Norway’s DNT and Sweden’s STF, meeting a few other hikers who brought moments of connection in the solitude. The final days on the famous Kungsleden were easier and well-marked.
From Abisko, I continued toward Kilpisjärvi via a mix of the Nordkalottleden and the scenic E1 trail. Storms, wet gear, and wind-battered nights made for intense experiences, but the moments of sunshine, reindeer sightings, and breathtaking landscapes made it all worthwhile.
The final section led me across Finland’s golden autumn hills toward Halti, the highest point in the country. I crossed rivers, passed waterfalls, and trekked through the stunning Reisa National Park. One magical night, I camped near a lake and was rewarded with Northern Lights dancing above my tent—an unforgettable reward after days of hard hiking. The landscapes changed constantly—from rocky highlands to dense forests, wild rivers, and tundra. As I neared Kautokeino, I met modern-day reindeer herders. After 35 days of hiking, I reached Kautokeino, tired but proud!
Read my full travel journey and tips on Polarsteps: