Top 13 Lakes around Härjedalen

Härjedalen's lakes are set amidst a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and rivers. You can find tranquil forest lakes like Swan Lake, Hamra National Park, which is ideal for birdwatching, or vast mountain lakes such as Rogen, known for its old pine forests and diverse wildlife. The unique Issjödalen area, part of the Vålådalen Nature Reserve, features emerald green meres and impressive moraine ridges formed by the last Ice Age.

Yes, Härjedalen is a prime destination for fishing. Lofssjön (Lake Lofsen) is particularly renowned for brown trout, with the broader Lofsdalen-Glöte fishing area offering varied experiences for trout, perch, and char in numerous lakes and streams. The Ljusnan River system is excellent for fly fishing for grayling and trout, especially around Hede and Långå. Rogen also offers excellent fishing for trout, char, grayling, perch, pike, and burbot.

Several lakes in Härjedalen are great for families. Swan Lake, Hamra National Park, offers relaxing hikes and birdwatching. The Sonfjällscampen Campsite, located directly on the Ljusnan River, provides opportunities for canoeing, SUP, and fishing. Byxtjärn, near Åre, is a shallow mountain lake accessible via an easy trail, popular for day trips and swimming with children.

Absolutely. The region offers extensive hiking opportunities. The area around Lofsdalen has 150 km of hiking trails, many leading to lakes with fishing spots. The unique Issjödalen area provides a magical hiking experience among glacial formations. For more hiking options, explore routes like 'Ponds and wind shelter – Ryvalens Shelter loop from Hede' or 'Hälinvinding Rock Paintings – Evagraven Gorge loop from Ruvallen' in the Hiking around Härjedalen guide.

Yes, there are options for easier access and beginner-friendly routes. Byxtjärn, for example, is reached via an easy and scenic hiking trail. For general hiking, the 'Hälinvinding Rock Paintings – Evagraven Gorge loop from Ruvallen' is an easy route available in the Hiking around Härjedalen guide. Many lakes also have accessible shorelines for gentle strolls.

Beyond fishing, many lakes offer water sports. Lofssjön is suitable for swimming and cycling around its perimeter. The Ljusnan River system provides opportunities for canoeing, especially near Sonfjällscampen Campsite, which also offers SUP rentals. Rogen is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking. The clear, turquoise waters in Issjödalen offer a refreshing, albeit chilly, swimming experience for hikers.

The best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June-August) is ideal for hiking, swimming, canoeing, and general outdoor enjoyment. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage for hiking. Winter provides opportunities for ice fishing, particularly at Järpbäcksdammen near Vemdalen, and other snow-based activities in the surrounding areas.

You'll find several convenient rest stops. Lofssjön has various shelters and barbecue spots along its shoreline. Lakeside Shelter at Hamra Nature Reserve is a beautiful hut with wood supplies and a barbecue area. Another Lakeside Shelter offers protection from rain and storm with a fire pit and outhouse.

Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Lofssjön is suitable for cycling around its perimeter. You can find various cycling routes in the region, such as 'Funäsdalssjön loop from Funäsdalen' or 'Picnic Spot by the Lake loop from Hede' in the Cycling around Härjedalen guide. For mountain biking, consider routes like 'Lofssjön Lake – Våffelstugan loop from Lofsdalen' from the MTB Trails around Härjedalen guide.

Härjedalen's lakes are rich in wildlife. Swan Lake, Hamra National Park, is excellent for birdwatching, especially waterfowl. The Rogen nature reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including golden eagles, rough-legged buzzards, ospreys, and bears. The Ljusnan River system is also important for local wildlife.

The Issjödalen area, within the Vålådalen Nature Reserve, is a unique geological site featuring impressive moraine ridges known as the Pyramids, formed by glacial ice 9,000 years ago. While not directly historical, the Fröå mine near Byxtjärn offers a glimpse into the region's past, with a scenic trail leading to the lake.