Under the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights: Walking Abisko’s Wild Threshold
A compact Arctic wildland where the Kungsleden begins and the heavens stage the aurora
At 68.35° north, the air has a thinner, clearer quality—clean enough that the sky feels like an event rather than a backdrop. You step off the train at Abisko and the world opens in cold, geometric planes: a glass-still lake, a crescent of birch forest, and a knife-edge of mountains that rise like the spine of the Arctic. The wind here isn’t merely a meteorological note; it pushes at you, negotiates your pace, and at night will steal the heat from your face and reveal the aurora undimmed.
Trail Wisdom
Start early on ridgelines
Morning light makes navigation easier and reduces afternoon wind exposure on exposed ridges like Nuolja.
Bring gaiters for boggy sections
Boardwalks cross many wet patches, but trails between huts can still be muddy—gaiters keep feet dry and warm.
Respect reindeer routes
Keep dogs leashed and avoid corrals; seasonal grazing lanes are active and protected.
Plan an aurora night with a guide
Local guides know microclimates and can pick clear corridors away from low cloud or light pollution.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hike the lesser-known valley trails around Abisko Östra for quiet views of Torneträsk
- •Walk the shorelines west of the Turiststation at dusk for intimate aurora viewing away from lights
Wildlife
Reindeer, Ptarmigan
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to stick to trails and huts, avoid disturbing grazing routes, and carry out all non-biodegradable waste; local land managers coordinate with Sami communities to protect reindeer migration.
Abisko’s Turiststation dates to early 20th-century exploration and scientific study; the park has long been a base for Arctic research and long-distance trekking.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Early-season skiing, Snowshoe day trips, Watching ice break-up on Torneträsk
Challenges: Variable snowpack, Cold overnight temps
Late spring still favors winter transport modes; snow can persist in high places while lowlands begin to green.
summer
Best for: Day hikes and multi-day Kungsleden sections, Midnight sun photography, Fishing and canoeing nearby
Challenges: Mosquitoes in lowland areas, Rapid weather shifts
Long daylight and mild temperatures make this the prime season for walking and camping; expect boggy ground in valley bottoms.
fall
Best for: Autumn color and first auroras, Short, crisp hikes, Reduced crowds
Challenges: Shortening daylight, Early snow at higher elevations
September and early October offer sharp light and cooling nights—great for aurora but bring warm layers.
winter
Best for: Aurora viewing, Cross-country skiing and dog sledding, Snowshoe expeditions
Challenges: Extremely cold temperatures, Limited daylight hours
Deep winter transforms Abisko into a silent, snowy landscape ideal for cold-weather activities and northern lights.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof hardshell jacketEssential
Protects against sudden rain, wind, and the sharp coastal-style storms common in Lapland.
Sturdy waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Good tread and ankle support are essential for rocky ridgelines and boggy boardwalk approaches.
Warm insulated midlayerEssential
Lightweight down or synthetic for cool evenings and higher-altitude wind exposure.
Headlamp with spare batteries
Useful for pre-dawn starts, hut chores, or aurora photography set-ups during darker months.
Common Questions
How do I get to Abisko?
Abisko is accessible by overnight or daytime train from Stockholm to Abisko Östra (or Abisko Turiststation) and by road from Kiruna; trains are comfortable and scenic and are the common choice for international visitors.
Do I need a guide to hike in Abisko?
No—many day hikes and sections of Kungsleden are well marked—but guided trips are recommended for winter travel, river crossings, and multi-day treks if you lack backcountry experience.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
Aurora season runs roughly from late August to April; clear, dark nights with low cloud cover and minimal light pollution give the best chances.
Are there places to stay in the park?
Yes—STF Abisko Turiststation offers rooms and cabins; there are also campsites and private cabins along Kungsleden and in nearby settlements.
Is water available on the trail?
Water sources are plentiful but should be treated if you are unsure—use a filter, purification tablets, or boil before drinking during uncertain seasons.
Can I see wildlife in Abisko?
Yes; reindeer are common, and you may also spot ptarmigan or Arctic foxes—maintain distance and avoid disturbing animals, especially during calving season.
What to Pack
Warm insulating layer (for cold nights), waterproof shell (sudden storms), sturdy waterproof boots (bogs and rocks), headlamp (short days or night photography)
Did You Know
Abisko is renowned for having one of the highest numbers of clear nights in Swedish Lapland—its microclimate and location in a rain shadow make it a top spot for aurora viewing.
Quick Travel Tips
Book STF accommodation early in summer; bring insect repellent for July–August; carry cash for small local purchases though cards are widely accepted; check train schedules in advance as services are less frequent in winter.
Local Flavor
Sami culture threads through the region—look for locally made handicrafts, try Arctic char on menus at the Turiststation, and read up on reindeer herding practices to better understand community rhythms.
Logistics Snapshot
Nearest major town: Kiruna (road/train); access: overnight train recommended; accommodation: STF Abisko Turiststation, cabins and campsites; permits: none for day use; emergency: limited cell—carry a map and tell someone your plan.
Sustainability Note
Stick to marked trails, use established huts and campsites, pack out all non-biodegradable waste, and respect Sami grazing areas—small choices protect fragile tundra and support local communities.