Snowshoeing 3-days in northern Jämtland
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3 Days | Jämtland Sweden
Rustic cabin stay in the mountains
Explore the untouched wilderness of Northern Jämtland with the help of snowshoes and a local guide. A highly affordable adventure in the mountains with overnights in a rustic cabin surrounded by the mountains.
Snowshoeing in Northern Jämtland, Sweden
Entering the city of Östersund on the transport of your choice, you are struck by the sudden drop in temperature. Here, the guide picks you up for another two hours by car into the deep forests, in the middle of the Scandinavian peninsula. As you get closer to your destination, the walls of snow on either side of the road gets higher and higher and this is the area of your two days on snowshoes. One would think the trees could hardly handle the pressure of such a load, but they are used to it. Hotagen Nature Reserve is fairly unknown to outsiders but it is said to be receiving a lot of precipitation during the winter months. Perfect for a snowshoe retreat!
A quick introduction to snowshoeing and then we are on our way and the warmth comes almost instantly. The goal is to reach Almdalens Mountain Farm that lies in a valley surrounded by dramatic mountains. On the way we will stop to make a fire and some lunch in the outdoors while enjoying the scenery and tranquility of the nature. The snowshoe hike to the farm is about 9 kilometers (5,6 miles) and we follow the terrain to avoid most uphills areas. When we arrive there is the possibility to try and reach the summit overlooking the area, a suitable mission before dinner, but an afternoon in the sauna is another well deserved option. The accommodation is fairly simple, a few rustic houses that get the warmth from the wood stoves, but there is some electricity so you can charge your phone if you like. There is no need to be afraid of sleeping in the cold, most people instead fire it up too hot! For the three course dinner, we may be served something local such as reindeer filets and rhubarb creme brulee made by Håkan and Randi that runs the farm and is there to make sure we feel welcome. Not to forget is the breakfast where you will find Håkan’s renowned moose meatballs.
So, if you are looking for an easy paced snowshoeing adventure in the beautiful wilderness, with almost everything taken care of, with a guide to help you along the way, and food to make you want to stay forever – this is the getaway for you.
Preliminary program
Day 1
The first day of our snowshoeing adventure takes us across lakes and by a river bank towards the mountains. Already the terrain around us magnificent but it gets better the further we go. The walking is generally easy and in a slow pace. We try to keep it this way to maintain a relaxed conversation about the surroundings. When the hunger sets in, we stop for some lunch by a fire. If you wish, you will get the chance to try and make your own fire using a firestriker, it can be quite tricky but usually works with the help of the guide.
When we reach Almdalen Mountain Farm we are usually greeted by Håkan or Randi. Randi has lived here since 1965 and Håkan has been working as a park ranger in the area a long time. Most of the time they will already have made a fire to warm our cabin for our arrival.
Day 2
A day trip around the area where we focus on feeling good, and find the best lunch spot. Perhaps we go looking for tracks and wildlife. In the area are moose, and reindeer but also golden eagle and wolverine amongst others.
Day 3
A match strikes against the box and soon the wood stove is lit up and fills the room with light and warmth as a new morning dawns. Few things feel so homely as the warmth of a fire as you prepare for a day of snowshoeing. However, the 50 meters distance between the cabin and the restaurant is a battle against the wind and snow as you make your way to the breakfast table. During breakfast, you also prepare your lunch and are briefed of the plan of the day. Facing the weather, we make our way down towards the lakes and into more sheltered terrain. Ultimately, we will end up where we started for our transportation back towards Östersund, usually matching the sleeper train to Stockholm Arlanda.
Included in the price
Guide and Safety Equipment
Snowshoes, poles and gaiters
More equipment and clothing can be provided upon request, please ask well in advance.
Transfer to/from Östersund Railway Station
Accommodation in a shared cabin
All meals from lunch day 1 to lunch day 3
Starting location:
The starting location is in Östersund which is the main city in the Jämtland region of Sweden. We will meet up in the morning around 8.30 and on the second day we will finish around 17.00
Some flexibility is allowed to accommodate transportation with flights and/or the sleeper train to Stockholm.
Difficulty and prerequisites:
This trip is generally easy and requires no previous experience, however, it is necessary that you are prepared for long days and cold weather and bring suitable clothing. A normal fitness helps but almost anyone can do it as we ill adjust the tour depending on the weather and the participants.
Packing list:
A list of what you need to bring will be provided well in advance. Special equipment is provided by the guide or can be rented. If you have any questions, please ask.
Good to know:
Please mention if you are allergic to something, have special dietary needs, or take medication for anything on a regular basis when booking. Also make sure your insurance covers this activity and that your equipment is in good condition.
