Hiking the High Coast Trail

In the northeast of Sweden stretches the UNESCO world heritage site, the High Coast. Unfolding over 100 km from north to south the High Coast has a unique and scenic land and seascape worth exploring. 

It is no wonder that the High Coast, or Höga kusten- as it is called in Swedish- has the country's second most popular hiking trail. With its dark and ancient forests, coastal mountains, steep granite cliffs and rocky islands rising from the sea, the hike has much to offer for any explorer. From the mountain Hornöberget in the south to the city Örnsköldsvik in the north, the hike is 128,6 kilometers long and extends through the entire world heritage site.

The regions’ wild and unsettled landscape was formed in the last ice age when a 3 KM thick layer of ice crushed the site. When the ice started to melt 9 600 years ago, the land began to rise. Even today, the archipelago is still gradually evolving and emerging from the sea. In 2000, UNESCO declared the High Coast of Sweden a world heritage site.

What to expect

128 kilometers might sound very long and extensive for a hike. That is why the trail is divided into 13 different sections, that can all be reached by car. The entire route takes five to seven days, depending on your level of fitness. Not only hikers are found along the trail, as the diverse land and seascape offers opportunities for activities, such as rock climbing and kayaking. 

While hiking the trail, you will meet people from all over the world, walking alone or in groups. As each of the 13 sections varies in distance, some are easier to hike than others. The scenic route is popular with the young and athletic as well as families. People take their time to enjoy the scenery and often stop for a “fika,” which means coffee and cake. 

There are several detours from the tracks worth seeing, such as the Valkallen, Fäberget, and Skuleberget. The view from these three mountains is extraordinary. Getting back to the route is often easy as the entire hike is marked with either orange dots on the trees or signs in blue and white.

There are cabins and shelters along the High Coast. All of these are free to use by anyone, and they are open all year long. But as they cannot be booked in advance, it is also recommended to bring your own gear to set up camp or book one of the several B&Bs, hostels or hotels in the area. 

Summertime is the most popular time to visit, when the days are long and the nights are short. A visit to the High Coast during this time of year will leave you with memorable experiences.