Hiking in Sweden Near Stockholm: 6 Best Places to Explore Sweden’s Natural Beauty
Sweden is perfect for hiking. There are plenty of dense forests, clear lakes, and marked trails come together to create a world of natural peace and beauty. And the best part? You don’t have to travel far from the capital to experience it. In this article, we will talk about hiking in Sweden near Stockholm and what to expect. Within a few hours of Stockholm, you can find some of the country’s most scenic hiking trails, national parks, and nature reserves.
Whether you’re looking for a short forest walk, a weekend hike around a lake, or a multi-day trek through wild landscapes, Sweden offers something for every type of hiker.
Here are some of the best places to hike near Stockholm. Each one easily accessible yet beautifully remote once you set foot on the trail.
Practical Hiking Tips
Getting Around: Most trails are accessible by public transport, so no car required.
Gear: Wear waterproof boots, bring layers, and take a picture of the map at the trail’s entrance.
Fika Stops: Many trails have rest shelters with benches or fire pits. Bring coffee and cinnamon buns for the perfect Swedish hiking break!
Sörmlandsleden – The famous one
One of Sweden’s most famous long-distance hiking routes, the Sörmlandsleden Trail begins right outside Stockholm and stretches around 1,000 kilometers through forests, lakes, and nature reserves mostly in the Sörmland region.
The trail is divided into over 90 sections, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. You can walk for a few hours or embark on multi-day journeys, staying in farm stays along the way.
Highlights include:
-Peaceful pine forests and spectacular rock formations.
-Crystal clear lakes, ideal for swimming in summer.
-Cozy rest areas with shelters and fire pits, where you can stop for a Swedish fika (coffee break).
How to get there: Several trailheads are accessible by commuter train or bus from Stockholm, including starting points at Haninge, Södertälje, and Nyköping.
Tyresta National Park – Closest National park
Just 20 kilometers south of central Stockholm, Tyresta National Park feels like another world. This 50 square kilometer park protects one of the largest areas of ancient forest in southern Sweden, with massive pines, moss covered boulders, and calm lakes.
Tyresta has around 55 kilometers of marked hiking trails, ranging from short family-friendly loops to full-day treks that cross deep forest valleys and circle lakes such as Stensjön and Årsjön.
Highlights include:
-The Urskogsstigen Trail (2.5 km) is a short route through untouched old-growth forest.
-The Stensjön Loop (9 km) is ideal for a half-day hike with lakeside picnic spots.
-The visitor center at Tyresta By, where you can learn about the park’s wildlife and history.
Best for: Nature lovers who want to experience wild Swedish forest without leaving the Stockholm area.
Roslagsleden Trail – Coastal charm
North of Stockholm lies the Roslagen region, home to the scenic Roslagsleden Trail. Stretching roughly 190 kilometers from Danderyd, just north of Stockholm city, to Grisslehamn on the coast, this trail offers a mix of lush forests, deep meadows, and sea views across the Baltic archipelago.
Highlights include:
-The Domarudden Nature Reserve, a peaceful area with lakeside trails and an open air farm. They also have a traditional Swedish sauna, however, check beforehand as it may be closed.
-The charming town of Norrtälje, known for its cafés, harbors, and colorful wooden houses.
-Seaside stretches where you can spot birds, seals, and even swim during summer months.
-Many hikers choose to explore Roslagsleden in sections over weekends, combining hiking with cozy stays at nearby bed & breakfasts or farmhouses.
Getting there: Take a commuter train to Danderyd and follow trail signs from Roslagsleden Etapp 1 toward Karby Gård.
Image: Jens Mohr
Upplandsleden Trail – Lakes, forests, and historic sites near Uppsala
For those who love hiking with a touch of history, Upplandsleden is a perfect choice. This trail system north of Stockholm, close to Uppsala, stretches over 450 kilometers, with several sections easily accessible.
One of the most beautiful routes runs between Bålsta and Skokloster, passing through dense woodlands, quiet lakes, and ancient ruins. Skokloster castle is a 17th-century baroque castle with a lake and landscaped park.
Highlights:
-Skokloster Castle, a 17th-century well-preserved masterpiece overlooking Lake Ekoln.
-Peaceful forest trails and wildlife sightings, deer and foxes are common.
-Lakeside rest spots for swimming and picnicking.
Getting there: Take a train to Bålsta, which is about 30 minutes from Stockholm city.
Bogesundslandet Nature Reserve – Hidden gem near the city
Located just 40 minutes by car or bus from Stockholm, Bogesundslandet is a large peninsula surrounded by the waters of the Stockholm archipelago. It is a hidden gem for day hikers who want wilderness close to the city.
Top trails:
-Blå leden is the longest of the trails of 35 km, 12 km of which are in the Bogesund Nature Reserve. It stretches all the way from the quay in Vaxholm to the Domarudden outdoor recreation center in Österåker Municipality.
-Nässeldalsrundan is a 5.5 km hike on a narrow trail in hilly terrain. The trail takes you through areas with rich biodiversity, dense forests, peaceful lakes and past the open sea.
-You can also visit Bogesund Castle, a 17th-century manor, or enjoy lunch at a local café in Vaxholm, known as the “Capital of the Archipelago.”
Paradiset Nature Reserve – For peace and quiet
Located near Huddinge, about 25 kilometers south of Stockholm city, Paradiset Nature Reserve lives up to its name, which is “Paradise.” It is part of the Sörmlandsleden network and offers peaceful trails surrounded by lakes, wetlands, and wild forests.
-You will find rustic wind shelters, picnic tables, and a seasonal cabin that sells food, snacks, and such. In winter, Paradiset becomes a magical snowy forest perfect for snowshoeing and winter hiking.
Trail tip: The Sameslingan Loop (5 km) is an easy, scenic circuit around Lake Trehörningen.