Sonfjället National Park is one of Europe's oldest national parks and one of Sweden's most unique mountain environments. With its mighty mountain massif, untouched wilderness and rich wildlife, it is a place that attracts both hikers and nature lovers all year round.

A mountain of history and wildlife

The national park, which covers 10,400 hectares, was established back in 1909 to protect pristine mountain heaths and create a sanctuary for the bear, which at the time was close to extinction. Today, it is home to one of Sweden's densest bear populations, as well as lynx, wolverine, moose, and birds of prey such as golden eagles and mountain buzzards.

There used to be many mountain farms around Sonfjället, and today there are still living mountain farms such as Nyvallen and Nysätern. Here you can experience the traditional lifestyle of mountain farmers and perhaps see grazing cows and goats in the wild.

Sonfjället's highest peak rises 1,278 meters above sea level and is the first place in Härjedalen to catch the sun's rays in the morning and the last to say goodbye to the evening sun.

Hiking in Sonfjället National Park

There are trails for both short day trips and longer mountain hikes. The national park can be experienced from several different starting points:

• Nyvallen - A popular entrance with a small exhibition on the park's nature and history. Several hiking trails start from here.
• Nysätern - Perfect for those who want to explore the heart of Sonfjället, Sododalen.

Hiking trails from Nyvallen

• Family Trail (2.5 km, approx. 1-2 h) - A short and easy hike for the whole family.
• Lillfjället (4 km, approx. 2-3 h) - A reasonable challenge with a fantastic view.
• Peak tour to Högfjället (11 km, approx. 6-8 h) - A demanding tour to the highest peak of Sonfjället.
• Sonfjället round (15 km, approx. 6-8 h) - A full-day hike that takes you through the park's wilderness.
• Nyvallen to Nysätern, (10 km, about 6-8 hours)

Hiking trails from Nysätern

• Sododalen also called the Heart of Sonfjället, estimated 6-8 hours, 10 km.
• Skavalrännorna on Gråsidan, estimated 4-5 hours, 7 km.

Good to have with you

To get the most out of your hike in Sonfjället, we recommend a detailed hiking map, produced by the County Administrative Board. The map contains information about all the trails, rest huts and terrain in the national park and is available at most service points or in our web shop.

How to get here

Sonfjället National Park is located in the middle of Härjedalen, and the nearest communities are Hedeviken and Hede. The park's main entrances are reached via road 84 and signs show the way to Nyvallen, Nysätern and Dalsvallen.

More to discover in Vemdalen

Vemdalen offers many more opportunities for hiking and nature experiences. Read more about our best hiking trails here or discover our beautiful waterfalls