Padjelantaleden

Padjelantaleden (Padjelanta Trail) is a 140 km long-distance hike through Swedish Lapland, running through Padjelanta National Park. The standard point-to-point route links Kvikkjokk in the south with Ritsem in the north and can be done in either direction.

Expect a 9–10 day through-hike with gentle terrain and limited daily elevation compared with many Nordic fjäll routes, making it a good first long trek for hikers with camping experience in remote areas.

Logistically, the route is built around mountain cabins and occasional resupply stops rather than frequent services. The trail passes streams for water, and cabins are spaced along the route so you can plan stages around overnight stays.

A practical way to pace the trip is in 6–23 km day lengths (roughly 2–8 hours walking, depending on your stage plan). Typical staging uses the STF/BLT cabin network along the route rather than long unsupported days.

The path moves between forested sections near the southern approach and open mountain heath above treeline as you work deeper into the park. Boardwalks and bridges are used in wetter ground areas, and some stages include climbs/descents between valleys and higher terrain.

Getting onto and off the trail generally requires local transport plus boat links at the endpoints/major water crossings (Kvikkjokk access, and the Ritsem side). Plan your start and finish around the boat/ferry timetables for the summer season.

More information: Wikipedia, Padjelanta trail - Swedish Tourist Association, Padjelantaleden — Journal Dusty Doddridge Photography