Hiking in Riksgränsen during summer is an unforgettable experience. Here, you’re met with majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and the magical midnight sun that never quite sets. Whether you choose a short walk or a full-day hike, nature offers peace, breathtaking views, and a sense of freedom that only the mountains can provide.
EXPLORE RIKSGRÄNSEN ON YOUR OWN
Dates: June – September.
Things to keep in mind: Weather can change quickly – make sure to bring appropriate clothing (rain jacket, hat, gloves, extra layers), packed lunch, and snacks.
Good things to pack: First aid kit / Compass / Map of the area / Knife or multitool / Seat pad / Alpine flora guide / Binoculars
Hiking for Everyone
Hiking in and around Riksgränsen is something truly special – for both beginners and seasoned mountain adventurers. There are several shorter trails starting directly from the resort, offering a mountain experience without needing to head out on a multi-day expedition. One example is the hike up Riksgränsfjället – a classic with sweeping views over the entire valley and Lake Vassijaure. Expect some serious leg burn going up the summer trail, but it’s worth every step! For something more relaxed, there’s the Katterjåkk trail, which runs from Nordalsfjället to Lake Katterjaure – and for the brave, a refreshing alpine swim awaits. More experienced hikers can head to “Trollsjön” (Rissájávri), explore the areas around Katterjåkk, or even hike over the mountain into Norway.
Midnight sun hiking
Hiking under the midnight sun in Riksgränsen feels like stepping into another world. Here, above the Arctic Circle, the sun doesn’t set at all for several weeks around midsummer – meaning you can set off into the mountains in the middle of the night and still have full daylight. The air is crisp, the silence almost complete, and the soft, golden light makes the peaks glow.
The views become surreal, and your sense of time disappears. Walk when you feel like it, rest when you need to, and let nature guide your rhythm. Midnight sun hiking is an excellent option for longer adventures.
Katterjokk – Katterjaure
This hike follows the creek and is around 8 km round trip. It’s an easy trail with expansive views of Nordalsfjället, Norway, and finally Lake Katterjaure. Enjoy a snack by the lake and take in the views before heading back. Maybe even take a dip in the crystal-clear and freezing cold water?
Bjørnfjell station – Brudeslørvatnet
A beautiful hike through grand nature, about 10 km round trip.
Start at Bjørnfjell Station and initially follow the marked “Rallarvegen.” When the path splits, take the left fork toward “Stora Ölrundan,” passing several Norwegian cabins. As the trail narrows and splits again near the top, take the right fork to reach a small mountain lake – perfect for a swim.
Those wanting to go further can continue to the edge of the lake, where the water flows into a magical waterfall. With views over the Rombaksfjord and the Ofoten railway, this is a trip we highly recommend.
Rallar Trail (Rallarleden)
In the late 1800s, railway workers (rallare) transported materials for the railway between Kiruna and Narvik. The trail offers stunning nature and rich history.
Hiking along the Rallar Trail can be done in sections and ranges from 2-hour walks to 2–3-day hikes. The closest section to Riksgränsen is the 15 km route to Rombaksbotn.
Riksgränsen – Rombaksbotn, about 15 km.
Start in Riksgränsen and head to Bjørnfjell Station. From the station, the path continues through open mountain terrain, west through the Bjørnfjell cabin area, and down towards Nordalsbrua and Fagerlia. The landscape is wild and dramatic. After a few kilometers, the trail begins to descend toward the fjord, and after 15 km you arrive at Rombaksbotn, surrounded by majestic mountains – a perfect full-day hike.
Riksgränsen – Björkliden, about 30 km.
NOTE: Parts of this trail can be challenging and lack boardwalks, with risk of slipping. Always check weather and water levels, as stream crossings may require wading during high water.
This hike offers unbeatable views – from crystal-clear mountain lakes and birch forests to historical sites, bridges, and streams. Some parts of the trail run alongside the E10 road.
Begin the hike from Riksgränsen on the Rallar Trail and follow it for about 7 km until you reach the turn-off to Trollsjön, a crystal-clear lake in the Kärkevagge valley. This stretch is considered one of the most enchanting along the trail.
Continue toward Låktatjåkka train station, and then to the historic Rallare Cemetery (Rallarkyrkogården). From there, it’s about 4 km of easy hiking through lush birch forest to Björkliden, with views of Lake Torneträsk and Lapporten.
For those seeking a multi-day adventure, the full hike from Björkliden to Rombaksbotn is approximately 44 km long.
