The best walks and hikes around Stora Blåsjön

Stora Blåsjön is home to several unique natural features. You can discover the fascinating Bjurälven, known as "the invisible river," where water has carved out sluices, siphons, and caves in the limestone. A 3 km hike through a lush forest leads to the river, with a total loop of about 10 km for exploration. The region also boasts Sweden's longest cave, Korallgrottan, which offers guided tours during summer.

Yes, the Stora Blåsjön area features several beautiful waterfalls. You can hike to Lejarfallet Waterfall, an easy 4 km hike from Ankarede. Another option is Brakkåfallet, located along the Vildmarksvägen, where you can see both lower falls with a natural swimming pool and the upper falls with views over the Blåsjön area. Gaustafallet, a turquoise waterfall, is also a recommended stop just off the Vildmarksvägen.

Near the hiking trails, you can visit Ankarede Church Town. This "living church town" is a significant cultural and historical site, featuring a chapel, church huts, Sami huts, a summer café, and a museum, offering insights into Sami culture. It also serves as a starting point for several trails.

Yes, there are easy routes perfect for beginners and families. An excellent option is the Ankarede Church – Lejarfallet Waterfall loop from Stora Blåsjön. This easy 6.7 km trail takes approximately 1 hour 43 minutes to complete and leads to the picturesque Lejarfallet Waterfall and the cultural site of Ankarede Church.

The best time for hiking in Stora Blåsjön is generally from early June to mid-October, especially if you plan to explore areas along the Vildmarksvägen, such as the section over Stekenjokk, which is only open during these months. This period offers clear air, vast mountain vistas, and accessible trails above the tree line.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the region offers moderate routes with significant elevation gain. The Small Mountain Lake loop from Stora Blåsjön is a moderate 10.8 km path with notable elevation, offering rewarding views. Another moderate option is the Path to Korallgrottan – View of the River loop from Korallgrottan, which covers 14.0 km and takes about 4 hours 14 minutes.

The hiking routes in Stora Blåsjön are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers often praise the expansive wilderness, clear lakes, and unique geological formations. Many appreciate the diverse terrain and options available for different ability levels.

Yes, Stora Blåsjön offers several circular hiking routes. Examples include the easy Ankarede Church – Lejarfallet Waterfall loop and the moderate Small Mountain Lake loop. Another option is the View of the River – Path to Korallgrottan loop, which takes you through varied terrain near the Korallgrottan.

Yes, the region provides opportunities to hike above the tree line. The Vildmarksvägen, Sweden's highest paved road, offers access to vast mountain heaths where the air is clear and the silence profound. The section over Stekenjokk, open from early June to mid-October, allows visitors to experience the bare mountainside and vistas of mountain peaks in every direction.

The Vildmarksvägen (The Wilderness Road) is a 360-kilometer scenic road that bypasses Stora Blåsjön. It's considered Sweden's highest paved road and offers a unique 'hiking by car' experience. It provides access to various hiking opportunities, particularly to areas above the tree line, with stunning views of mountain peaks. The section over Stekenjokk is a prime example, open seasonally from early June to mid-October.

Many trails in Stora Blåsjön offer rewarding views. The Small Mountain Lake loop from Stora Blåsjön leads to a mountain lake with views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, hiking on Mesklumpen Mountain, a prominent feature near the village, can offer panoramic views, and the upper Brakkåfallet provides vistas over the Blåsjön area.