Experience the nature with snowshoes

 

For many, the High Coast is a place to go hiking. And it’s true – a lot of people come here for the fantastic scenery and the rich outdoor life. But hiking isn’t only a summer activity; hiking with or without snowshoes in the winter is an experience in itself. Winter hiking in Skuleskogen National Park is a fantastic option when the desire to go for a hike hits you hard in the colder months of the year. You can rent snowshoes if you want to make things a bit easier and so you can explore places far from the marked trails.

But remember to have a little extra safety margins when you go on a winter hike and that you have to take greater personal responsibility to navigate the trails. The hiking trails in the High Coast are laid out with bare ground in mind, which means that trail markings can be difficult to see and in some cases covered with snow up on the treeless mountain tops. This is especially true in Skuleskogen National Park, where many people also find it in the winter. Do not go out where it is unpaved and unmarked without a map and compass (which you should know how to use). If you become unsure - follow your own tracks back.

Things to consider when hiking in winter

At this time of year, hiking can offer fantastic experiences of nature. However, it is important to be aware that conditions are different now, and there are a few things to know and consider before setting out on a hike. Here are three useful tips to keep in mind.

 

1. Allow for a little extra safety margin

In winter, it can be quicker to end up in a serious situation if something unexpected happens. If you injure yourself, it won't take long to get cold. Always base your decisions on your own abilities and knowledge. Also bear in mind that you cannot rely on your phone, as mobile coverage is poor in parts of the High Coast.

2. Most trails are designed for summer

Trail markings are designed with bare ground in mind. In the forest, the dots painted on trees may be covered by snow, and on treeless mountains, snow often covers the dots and small cairns that show the way in summer. This means that in winter, you must take greater responsibility for finding your way. Do not venture out where the terrain is uncharted and unmarked without a map and compass (which you should know how to use). If you become unsure, follow your own tracks back.

3. Snowshoe hiking or cross-country skiing

The trails in Höga Kusten are designed for hiking, but with skis on your feet, they can feel steep and difficult. The best skiing is often found off the trails and in the high, marshy areas of, for example, Nätra mountain forest, Skuleskogen National Park and around Hallstaberget.

Suggested locations for snowshoe hiking

 

Skuleskogens Nationl Park

Skuleskogen National Park is perhaps the most popular hiking destination in the High Coast, both in summer and winter. Keep in mind that there is often a lot of snow at higher elevations in the national park and that the trail markings are not adapted for winter conditions. Hike with caution and take greater responsibility for finding your way.

Skuleberget

Skuleberget Nature Reserve is another popular place for hiking. In summer, there are several different trails to choose from to get to the top. But in winter, we recommend Östra Bergsstigen, which starts at Naturum Höga Kusten, or Höga Kusten Stigen, which starts at FriluftsByn.

Balesuddens nature reserve

Balesudden is an iconic landmark from the sea. You can start your hike from Hålviken. Keep in mind that the trail markings can be difficult to see at the far end of the headland where it is bare rock.

Lilla Högakustenleden

The trail is maintained by Hotell Höga Kusten, which also rents out snowshoes. Along the trail there are beautiful viewpoints and rest areas.

Själandsklinten

Excellent if you want to go on a short snowshoe hike in the middle of the World Heritage Site.

Rotsidan

From here, you can start from Barsta and hike the World Heritage Trail to Rotsidan (about 1.5 km). You can rent snowshoes from Skutskepparn in Barsta.

Vårdkasberget and Härnöleden

Vårdkasberget in Härnösand is a popular outdoor recreation area. In addition to downhill skiing and cross-country skiing, there are lovely areas for walking that are perfect for snowshoeing. The Härnö Trail passes Vårdkasberget and stretches all the way to Smitingen-Härnöklubb , where there are also many beautiful trails suitable for snowshoeing.

Fälle friluftsområde

Multråberget

Ögeltjärnsberget

Open nature areas in winter

We have compiled a list of nature areas that are open and accessible in winter.

 

See the list here  

 

Rent snowshoes

 

Snowshoes can be rented from the following places in the High Coast: 

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