Explore Höga Kusten

Hike at the Skuleberget Mount along the Höga Kusten Stigen

This excursion covers the most breathtaking spots, making it ideal for those who love to explore Skuleberget Mount. You will find described two manageable few-hour walk that will take you to the summit and allow you to visit the Naturum Museum about the High Coast World Heritage site.

They accomplish this by following some of the most well-known pathways inside the unique mountain environment and its natural reserve, enjoying a leisurely stroll around the top, and including the panoramic descent down the Höga Kusten Stigen segment into each itinerary.

The foot of the mountain can be reached in less than two kilometers from the marina in Docksta.

The paths of the excursion allow you to visit the museum if you so choose, which is located on the eastern side of the mountain (if you go there riding, you can leave the bike at the museum before starting the hike).

Turn right toward the gas station after crossing the bridge heading toward the school, and then continue on the road next to the E4. Continue on the route that retains the mountain to your left after a few hundred meters by staying to the right.

The relief you see from Docksta is the southern portion of the Skuleberget, called the Litoberget (224m a.s.l.). You will pass it on the way back as you descend from the top of the Skuleberget along the Höga Kusten Stigen trail.

To reach the museum by arriving from Docksta, there is a pleasant terrain road between the mountain and the highway, which is less than two kilometers from the end of the village and quite flat.

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Naturum is where you begin your journey to the summit.

About Naturum

The museum was built in 2007 right under the vertical walls on the eastern side of Skuleberget. Here are also the 5 slopes on the equipped wall of “Via Ferrata”, which attracts climbing enthusiasts from all over Europe.

The Naturum Höga Kusten Museum serves as the starting point for anybody interested in learning more about the history of the High Coast and the network of nature heritage sites that crisscross the coast. The elevation of the terrain served as the rationale for the site's designation as a World Heritage Site. There are always both temporary and permanent exhibitions, along with additional events throughout the spring and summer. With unique information bars that provide visitors with information on the many themes, the show, which looks at land uplift, geology, and living on the High Coast, adopts a contemporary and lighthearted approach.

 

Reaching the top of the Skuleberget is an enjoyable excursion, and it is within reach of everyone. Simply appreciate the pathways and ascend in a relaxed manner. There are plenty of indicators, and the paths are clearly marked.

 

What’s the recommended route?

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Hike the “Eagle” path or the “Lynx” path uphill to the summit of Skuleberget and then follow the “Höga Kusten Stigen” path to return down.

I suggest you have two options of routes to climb: the first (in GREEN on my map), along the path that leads right next to the museum. The second (in LIGHT BLUE) slides from the east side to the north side of the mountain, offering panoramic views and really fascinating areas in the forest.

The difference in altitude on these pathways is less than 300 meters (EAGLE segment D+213m; LYNX segment D+227m), but you don't have to think of the experience as a straightforward stroll. The Skuleberget has all the characteristics of a mountain, despite its height, which should lead us to classify it as a hill. Even the most seasoned hikers should give their paths due thought and respect.

 

Option #A:

up along the EAGLE segment

This steep trail takes you to the summit in a little more than 800 m, overcoming almost 250m of dislevels along a rather vertical route that also leads, with a short indicated deviation, to visit the cave.

The cave is known as Kungsgrottan or Rövar Grottan, is a round cave formed from erosion by sea waves thousands years ago.

This path is indicated on the sign as “Grottsstigen”. Mountain riding enthusiasts have nicknamed it “Eagle”, and it is one of the most challenging segments of the five trails that lead to the summit.

You won't have really “to climb” along this path, but you will need appropriate footwear and a little climbing attitude! You will walk on stones, rocks, and roots; some points are challenging but absolutely safe; and with iron steps, you will run to overcome the most vertical sections.

The stunning scenery, which includes the national park to the west and the Norrfjärden and archipelago to the east, will make the effort well worth it. You'll be glad you made the journey when you reach the peak.

A couple of tips related to the EAGLE segment 👉 when it's raining or the ground is wet, take an alternate path to ascend instead of facing down the Grottanstigen. This is not the road for your dog if he is with you.

 

Option #B:

up along the LYNX segment

The second track climbs to the top following the “Blå stigen / Östra bergsstigen” trail. You can catch it by continuing from the museum to the north along the route of the Höga Kusten Leden in just over 800 meters. On the left, after the paths leading to the trails of the Via Ferrata, starts the “LYNX” segment, which on the signs you will see indicated as Stigen/Norra Stigen.

It is a beautiful route and probably the most suggestive to walk. You can see, especially in the first part, the high vertical walls on the side of the railway roads, which fall into the most impervious forest of the trail, and the characteristic subforest of these woods, with moss on the rocks, the roots appearing, and the remains of tree trunks.

A tip related to the LYNX segment 👉 in the warmer summer days (sometimes they are damp even at these latitudes), this is the route to climb that offers the most cooling. In the morning, in particular, this is the side of the mountain to choose, and then descend instead from the side exposed to the south, which is super-panoramic and sunny.

 

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Finally, you are on top.

Right next to the Toppstugan, there is a panoramic wooden platform where you can find the bronze sculpture “Skrubban” by Hans Hedberg, a tribute to the small island of the same name that lies south of Trysunda and to the Höga Kusten UNESCO heritage. At the end of the climb, it is tradition to pass by the Skrubban and touch it.

You are about 286m above sea level, at a height that ideally outlines what more or less 10,000 years ago was the coastline of a small, nine-meters-high island (the peak of the Skuleberget, that's now is 295 meters above the sea level) that emerged from the surface of the sea, completely surrounded by ice during the last glacial period.

Today, there is a path marked with red signs on rocks and trees that runs on this hill on a circular path around the summit of Skuleberget. The “Kalottstigen” is a fairly flat walk, a little more than a kilometer long, offering unforgettable panoramic views. I suggest you take this trail; maybe stop for a break with your breakfast in the bag before starting the return route.

 

A panoramic route back:

Go down the Höga Kusten Stigen trail enjoying the sea views.

The sunny path with views of the sea, called “Höga Kusten Stigen”, was opened in 2017 on the south-facing side of Skuleberget to welcome new hikers to the world's highest shoreline at 295 meters above sea level, connecting Friluftbyn to the summit of the mount.

It is a very panoramic trail (in BLUE on the map) that offers views of the two fjords, Norrfjärden and Dockstafjärden, and the main mountains that divert the area: Getsvedjeberget to the East, the Vårdkallberget peninsula (🧭S-E), the particular duck form of Fäberget (🧭S), where the Ullångersfjärden is forced, and Herrestaberget westward (visible from the top of the Skuleberget, on the opposite side of the Gällstsjön lake).

The path begins a hundred meters from Toppstugan, on the left, at the beginning of the ski slopes. You'll see the signs indicating it. It slides down on the southern slope, along a forested crinale that reconnects to Litoberget, and then turns a little east, opening up towards the beautiful view of the fjords and Docksta.

The Södra Stigen continues to descend steeper along endless red granite walls, down to the valley before twisting. On the left, you return to the woods towards the museum; on the right, you turn around the mountainside and descend to Friluftbyn.

Ah! Walking the Höga Kusten Stigen, you descended from the segment nicknamed "FOX,", another of the five paths, along with BEAR and ELK, of the Skuleberget Mountain.

Whatever route you choose to ascend Skuleberget, I'm sure the trail will be etched in the memories you carry from Höga Kusten. I am familiar with all of this mountain's pathways; each has a unique personality and the capacity to evoke strong feelings and memories in you.

🔎 LYNX, EAGLE, FOX, ELK, and BEAR: know more about the five paths that brings you to the summit of Skuleberget Mount >

 

SET YOUR #HIKING BASE CAMP TO EXPLORE THE HÖGA KUSTEN WORLD HERITAGE SITE:

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These waterfront Airbnbs are situated just a step away from the Skuleberget Mount and close to Skuleskogen National Park.

Based in Docksta for your vacation, you can walk to the trails that lead you to the summit of Skuleberget Mount that I have described, and you will be close to the national park Skuleskogen. You can also easily get around by car or by bus, and you will be in the ideal location to start exploring the area. 👉 Take a look at our vacation Airbnb accommodations by the seaside >

 

Tommaso De Rosa

See my host profile and contact me on Airbnb

If you would like assistance planning your stay in one of our waterfront accommodations at the marina, need hiking advice at Skyleskogen Park or Mount Skuleberget, or have any other questions regarding things to do on the High Coast during the summer, please contact me via the Airbnb chat. You are welcome :)

_Tommaso

Please write me by email or WhatsApp at +46.763136909

 

P.S. I’m a trail runner passionate. I like to explore new routes with a hiking mindset, especially those on the High Coast. Here below you find what I highlighted in these blog posts.

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Basic tips to get ready for your day hike (or run) on High Coast paths

The great outdoors is calling: a walk's quality need not be determined by its duration or level of difficulty, nor does it have to be an intense hike.

Being on the High Coast represents an opportunity to move in nature in an unparalleled way.

It's a good idea to keep in mind a few recommendations to ensure the success of any excursion you have planned that may be completed in four or five hours, even if it's only a few kilometers on paper.

 

6 suggestions to prepare you for your outdoor walks on the Höga Kusten

1. You need suitable footwear. With few exceptions, all the paths that lead you to climb or descend on the reliefs are very technical, you will also walk on rocks, roots and pebbles. You do not need heavy or rigid shoes, good shoes are enough, for example for hiking or trail running, that are comfortable, with a good grip and possibly tasselled.

2. Move with a light backpack, always carry a reservoir of water with you and something to eat to replenish your energies. Remember that you won't be able to easily access stores to "supply" or just stop for a drink when you're in the woods or on the national park's trails.

3. Check the weather forecast, bringing appropriate clothing (to stay warm and dry, particularly).

The applications YR.no and SMHI.se are excellent for puntual locality forecasting.

4. Plan your route. The paths within the national park or protected natural areas, and the Höga Kusten Leden are average well marked, you will generally find signs with the indications that are needed or more easily than signs made with colored paint on rocks and trees.

Taking a look at a map, to know the territory where you are moving, is always a good idea. Tourist information points can in most cases provide you with a useful one.

👉 You can find many maps even downloadable online, (below, you can free download our info-maps, too), or use apps (like Kamoot, Outdoorsactive...), when you have network coverage. A good resource are naturkartan.se website and app.

👉 Have a look also at our outdoor MAP-POSTERS >

If you're adventuring on trails that you don't think are popular, let someone know about your route and your excursion plans.

5. Bring a cell phone with the batteries charged but remember that you will not always have the coverage guaranteed, especially if you are in roaming with a non-Swedish telephone contract.

6. Carrying hiking or Nordic walking poles in your backpack could be an excellent alternative if they are foldable. Although they are helpful equipment, many of the rough and rooty pathways you may come upon are not suitable for them.

 

Little etiquette guidelines

Additionally, you will find here a few basic etiquette rules for a more environmentally conscious outdoor experience.

📍Keep it wild.

Just remember that the natural environment you are moving into is unique and delicate.

Stay on the existing paths (do not venture off the trails creating new ones or cutting switchbacks). Remain on it to avoid harming the natural spaces around it. With so many visitors enjoying natural areas for their outdoor recreational activities, a simple shortcut through a dune, around a wet trail, or across a meadow can have long-lasting negative impacts.

📍Do not disturb wildlife.

Your surroundings are home to many plants and animals: you are the visitor.

📍Do not litter.

Take all of your belongings home with you :)

 

Set your #hiking BASE CAMP to explore the Höga Kusten World Heritage site:

These coastal Airbnbs are located at the marina in Docksta, along the Höga Kusten Leden (Etapp 5: Ullånger–Skuleberget) and just a step away from the Skuleskogen National Park and the Skuleberget Mount. The accommodations are seaside and perfectly located to explore the Höga Kusten World Heritage.

 


Tommaso De Rosa

See my host profile and contact me on Airbnb

If you would like assistance planning your stay in one of our waterfront accommodations at the marina, need hiking advice at Skyleskogen Park or Mount Skuleberget, or have any other questions regarding things to do on the High Coast during the summer, please contact me via the Airbnb chat. You are welcome :)

_Tommaso

Please write me by email or WhatsApp at +46.763136909

 

P.S. I’m a trail runner. I like to explore new routes with a hiking mindset, especially those on the High Coast. Here below you find what I highlighted in these blog posts.

👇

Vårdkallberget Mount offers the taste of a wild hike on the High Coast

This mount remains in your heart.

The trail to Vårdkallberget (or Värnsberget, as someone started to nickname it) is a well-balanced hike, with only one rugged path along the hilltop leading to the summit at 265m a.s.l.

The name "Vårdkallberget" means "beacon mountain”, and it evokes memories of the old signal fires. In the past centuries, big signal fires in the High Coast Mountains alerted the locals to impending enemy attacks. The beacon chain extended all the way along the coastline so that the armies could be gathered.

Overview from the summit toward south: on the right, the Fäberget Mount at the entrance of the Docksta fjord.

Rising from the sea, the mountain forms a peninsula, never more than a couple of kilometers wide, that divides the Docksta fjord from the Norrfjärden.

Between the North fjord and the Dockstafjäerden, the peninsula with Vårdkallberget Mount (panoramic view from the summit of Skuleberget)

On the right of the panorama, the summit of the Vårdkallberget Mount from the overview point at Getsvedjeberget.

From the Per Olsbo’s shelter, near the Höga Kusten Leden, view of the Vårdkallberget Mount. From its height, it overlooks the smaller Valabergen Mount, characterizing the shape of the promontory overlooking the fjord “Ullångerfjärden” to the south.

Along the coast, there aren't many houses, and the mountain retain its amazing natural features.

The trail that leads to the top of Vårdkallberget is mostly known by locals and, fortunately, little visited, so it will be much easier to meet some wild animals, though you will probably only see traces of them in the summer.

The Vårdkallberget Mount from the pier at Docksta Havet.

From the village of Docksta, looking south-east, you can see the mountain dominate the landscape at the beginning of the fjord. It is curious to think that it is only thirty meters lower than the top of the most famous Skuleberget.

 

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Trail to Vårdallberget Mount: back and forward from the Antenna in Myre:

4.6KM, D+180M, ~2HRS

(for hikers of all levels)

From the marina, it's easy to get to the beginning of the path by foot, bicycle, or by parking your car in Myre.

The trail climbs steeply along the short terrain road to the antenna in Myre, then crosses over a short stretch of recently cleared forest before entering the breathtaking wild area. This section of the woods is distinguished by its openness and exposure to the sun.

These particular forested areas, precious to biodiversity for flora and fauna, are called "rocky pine forests". You will understand what it means to cross a natural and undirsturbed old-growth wood in the High Coast.

The rocky pine forests are still dominated by natural dynamics and low human impact since they are considered low productive due to the low tree density (lack of water and rocky and nutrient-poor hilltops may contribute to it).

These are structurally diverse and heterogeneous forests and valuable habitats for organisms connected to sun-exposed dead woods; both snags and logs can be present for several centuries after death.

During your excursion, you will see very old pines (Pinus Sylvestris, particularly) that have been twisted by wind and snow, and you will likely need to climb or surround some storm-fallen trees, whose exposed roots will show you how almost everything here clings to a small layer of soil and to bare bedrock to survive.

 
 

At Vårdkallberget Mountain, you get a real taste of what hiking Nordic trails in areas with low human impact looks like

 

By walking a narrow single track surrounded by blueberry bushes, you will pass portions of thicker forest, passing next to a wet area, and walk a few tens of meters next to a beautiful lake but invisible from the path if you don't start looking for it.

Finding the lake on the map and orienting yourself to get there should be fairly simple if you have a smartphone and a trekking app (like Komoot or Outdoorsctive). Just be cautious when approaching the wet area that is surrounded by a frequently occurring layer of moss under the surface of which there is water.

You will also cross a couple of the typical cobble fields whose pebbles have been rounded by the work of the waves because they were once at sea level around 10.000 years ago.

The final stretch of the trail has sparser vegetation, making it easy to jump over some broad, rocky reliefs of typical red granite that are covered in moss and lichen.

You will be able to identify the southern summit of the mountain by the stacked stones that accentuate some of the 360-degree panoramic points over the archipelago.

If you start exploring the surroundings a little from there, you will discover charming views to the Ullånger’s fjord and, just below the top, on the north side, a particular wind shelter.

Photo ©: courtesy by ArkNat

It's name is “He”, and it was built in 2019 within the ArkNat project by students from different Scandinavian schools of architecture. Because of the shelter's two-sided architecture, guests can tilt the main body for shade, or wind protection, or a gorgeously framed view of the Norrfjärden, toward the Skuleberget and the Skuleskogen National Park.

The whole route to the summit of Vårdkallberget, back and forth from the antenna, is roughly five kilometers long and has a level of difficulty that most people can handle.

Naturally, it is advised to wear a good pair of trekking shoes and a pair of long trousers (the single track path narrows between bushes at certain segments). You won't be disappointed when blueberries are in season, but don't forget to pack a water bottle and possibly some snacks.

When windy, the summit is typically fairly exposed. At Vårdkallberget, however, the sun will shine through the trees for a good chunk of your journey if the weather is good. Have fun!

 
 

Tommaso De Rosa

See my host profile and contact me on Airbnb

If you would like assistance planning your stay in one of our waterfront accommodations at the marina, need hiking advice at Skyleskogen Park or Mount Skuleberget, or have any other questions regarding things to do on the High Coast during the summer, please contact me via the Airbnb chat. You are welcome :)

_Tommaso

Please write me by email or WhatsApp at +46.763136909

 

Superior panoramic views of the High Coast World Heritage archipelago

If you are planning a vacation on the High Coast and you love hiking, Docksta is a great place to start, making it your base camp to explore some of the most stunning trails on the World Heritage site.

Which destinations would I suggest? First, the Skuleskogen National Park and the Skuleberget Mountain Nature Area.

The list of summits is as follows: Skuleberget, Slåttdalsberget at Skuleskogen, Getsvedjeberget, Vårdkallberget, Fäberget, and Herrestaberget. From these mountains, the sweeping views of the archipelago are breathtaking.

They're all well worth the effort, but you'll probably have to decide which to focus on during your excursions. So, the following information may be helpful to you :)

 

Hiking to the best 6 viewpoints offering sweeping views of the Höga Kusten archipelago

All of these are a few-hour excursions, except for the one to the national park Skuleskogen where you will do well to devote an entire day.

Generally speaking, I advise you to leave the car parked and point out a few of these stunning mountains' peaks, which you can even reach on foot, starting from Docksta.

 

Skuleberget

296m above sea level

You can absolutely not miss the Skuleberget mountain; there are five gorgeous trails to reach its summit.

At the top, the circular path marked with red dots and named Kalottstigen allows you to walk, at 286m a.s.l., along the anchient coastline (it is the world’s highest point of land to have been uplifted by a postglacial isostatic rebound). Here you will enjoy some of the best overview points of the High Coast World Heritage.

It is a short walk or bike ride from the Docksta marina to the base of the mountain, which is less than two kilometers away.

I suggest you go up the east side, where there are the Naturum Museum and the Via Ferrata, because from there two unforgettable paths start: the "Eagle" (Grottstigen) and the "Lynx" (Östra Bergstigen).

  • The first begins just besides the museum; it is the steepest and takes you on top in just over 800m. The view towards the sea is incredible. It is a challenging path; at some points you will find iron steps in the rock, you will have to walk on large massifs, and you will also have to use your hands. It's not a climb, of course, but I don't recommend it if the ground is wet, just as I'd avoid going through it to get down.

  • The second option starts just under a kilometer north of the museum, following the Höga Kusten Leden. It climbs up the mountain through the beautiful forests of the natural area and, turning around the north side, offers a couple of truly unique sights, eastward and then towards the national park.

To return, I recommend following downhill the Höga Kusten Stigen / Södra Bergstigen Stigen (the #BIG5 path named “FOX”).

This panoramic path is facing south and 2.5 km long; crossing the summit of Litoberget Mountain brings you back to the valley along the sunny side of the mountain and its stunning panoramas over the Dockstafjärden and Norrfjärden.

Here you find more detailed descriptions of all the trails of the Skuleberget mountain, and the history of the path nicknames inspired by the wild animals of the area.

 

Slåttdalsberget

at 276m a.s.l, spanning between the archipelago and the horizons on the National Park

Since 2023, an unprecedented perspective has been opened towards the archipelago from the top of the mountain Slåttdalsberget. Its top, a basically flat “terrace” of red granite rock, where the vegetation is very scarce, can now be traveled along the path from both sides of the mountain that is split in half by the Slåttdalsskrevan, a 200-meter-long and 30-meter-high fissure.

 

Getsvedjeberget

Overlooking the Norrfjärden

The one that leads to the top of Getsvedjeberget mountain is a short excursion marked by satisfaction, although a bit challenging.

The segment that leads up begins steep and continues to be, but the effort is abundantly rewarded by the beauty it offers on the landscape of the fjord and the surrounding mountains. If you go there on a sunny, windy day, your jaw will drop in astonishment.

From Docksta, you can go there walking or biking (~3km); there is a pleasant road that leads to the Norrfjärden, avoiding crossing the highway. The path starts right inside the campsite.

 

Vårdkallberget

360 degrees views over the wild + the joy to walk the 2.5Km single track segment to the peak

Hiking in the stunning scenery of the High Coast can be experienced firsthand on this delightful and simple trail.

No component is left out. The path, almost a single track between blueberry bushes, slides quietly along the back of the mountain, crossing a beautiful rocky pine forest, where light easily penetrates. The contact with the sky is constant.

From the antenna, in Myre, you reach the summit at 265m a.s.l. in less than 3 kilometers, crossing wet areas, stretched on rocks covered with lichens and surrounded by very ancient pines, contoured by the wind. The path runs through a hidden and almost "secret" lake and crosses in a couple of points some of the typical cobble fields with round stones formed by the waves and sea ice around 10.000 years ago.

From the village, you can walk or bike to Myre to the “Antenna”, and start there your trail to Vårdkallberget: here you can download a free info-map about >

 

Herrestaberget

A special and privileged observation spot

This mountain protects Docksta and the northern part of the fjord from strong western winds coming from Norway.

From the main street of the village, you can hardly see but the Herrestaberget Mountain is there, at less than 1km; it rises in all its natural beauty, enclosing the precious treasure of a small natural area that preserves a portion of its oldest forest heritage from woodcuts.

The trail begins along the southwestern shore of Lake Gällstasjön; in this case, the track does not lead to the summit of the mountain but reaches a beautiful promontory overlooking the southeast. An observation point over Docksta, its fjords, and mountain reliefs will easily stay in your heart.

From the road that coasts the lake, you get there by a steep path in the woods, a little more than 500 meters and an oscillating divide of 129 meters.

From this panoramic point, the trail descends back and forth by taking a wide anti-clock tour around the mountain, leading to Sätra, with the wonderful old 1400 church of the village and the charming fields overlooking the south towards the fjord.

 

Fäberget

At the top of the mountain carved by ice and the sea

From its summit, there is an observation point with an incredible perspective. The mountain sits on the water at the intersection between Dockstafjärden and Ullångerfjärden. It is a cult deviation for all hikers walking along Stage No. 5 of the Höga Kusten Leden.

From the old church in Docksta, the trail crosses the Sätra meadows and enters, after a few hundred meters, into the forest. It is a really suitable walk for everyone, along a beautiful segment of the Höga Kusten Leden. At Skoved, you can safely cross the highway and walk the road toward the mountain and its shelter, facing east over the sea. Make time to explore the few small tracks around the summit toward the north, too. The peak has large, flat rocks covered by lychens and small trees.

 

During your walk to Fäberget, the short deviation to the shelter of “Per Olsbo” is unmissable.

This spot is a magical place, with a spectacular peak view of the fjord and Vårdkallberget, towards Docksta and the Skuleberget mountain.

Along the Höga Kusten Leden, it is marked with the "Utsight" sign approximately a few kilometers south of the church. Remember to sign the guestbook :)

 
 

Some tips to prepare your excursions

  • Move with a light backpack, always carry a reservoir of water with you and something to eat to replenish your energies.

  • With few exceptions, all the paths that lead you to climb or descend on the reliefs are very technical, you will also walk on rocks, roots and pebbles, you need suitable shoes. You do not need heavy or rigid shoes, good shoes are enough, for example for hiking or trail running, that are comfortable, with a good grip and possibly tasselled.

  • The paths that I have described are average well marked, you will generally find signs with the indications that are needed or more easily than signs made with colored paint on rocks and trees.

  • Bring a cell phone with the batteries charged but remember that you will not always have the coverage guaranteed, especially if you are in roaming with a non-Swedish telephone contract.

 
 

Tommaso De Rosa

See my host profile and contact me on Airbnb

If you would like assistance planning your stay in one of our waterfront accommodations at the marina, need hiking advice at Skyleskogen Park or Mount Skuleberget, or have any other questions regarding things to do on the High Coast during the summer, please contact me via the Airbnb chat. You are welcome :)

_Tommaso

Please write me by email or WhatsApp at +46.763136909

 

Hiking in Skuleskogen National Park during enchanted summer nights

 

The summer solstice is celebrated in June over a long weekend, and is known as "Mittsommar" in Sweden. It honors the longest day of the year.

But since the High Coast is above 60° North latitude, both June and July celebrate endless summer days that have 24 hours of daylight to enjoy!

Spending time outside right now is ideal to explore the Höga Kusten Unesco World Heritage.

During one of these bright "nights" and when the sun just dips a few degrees below the horizon, can you image yourself traversing the Slåttdalsskrevan cracks and hiking the Skuleskogen trails?

This is specifically the subject matter I wish to cover on the summers excursion in Skuleskogen, (and there could be no better base in Docksta where to leave for an unforgettable outdoor experience at the national park ;)

 
 

Step by step, along the nicest paths in the Skuleskogen in summertime.
This trek rocks.

 

MAP: hike the best trails at the Skuleskogen national park

🧭

~11.4KM, D+321m, ~4/6Hrs

(medium difficulty)

 
  • 🔵 Leave your car at the Southern Entrance of the park (Entré Syd);

  • 🟡 start heading to “Näskebodarna” on the beautiful path between the forest and the sea that follows the coastline;

  • 🟠 then, hike up along the trail (blue markings) to reach the "Tärnättvattnen" lakes and packed dinner there;

  • ⚫ next, in the midnight summer light and with a certain "Lord of the Rings" suggestion, traverse the 7 meters wide, 30 meters deep “Slåttdals” crevice (“Slåttdalsskrevan”) from north to south.

  • 🔴 from there, up on the short segment that climbs on the "Slottdalsberget" hill summit for coffee and chat with an overview of the whole archipelago;

  • 🟣 downhill from the summit, and slow walk back in the forest along the path marked with orange dots (boardwalks on about half of the segment);

  • 🔵 ending greeting of the day and the reborn sun with breakfast or a packed snack on the beach at “Kälaviken”, before to return to the parking of the Southern Entrance.

 

Tips and recommendations for your overnight hike

  • Pack lightly because the trail is tough. Only bring what is necessary to ensure that your hike is safe and pleasant enough in your backpack.

  • There are no shops or bars nearby! Carry your own food and water, including coffee or te. Stay hydrated and consider that you'll burn a lot of calories.

  • Even in the summer, the weather might quickly change. Be sure you are dressed appropriately. The paths are rough and some sections are challenging, with many rocks and roots: a pair of shoes with a good grip is highly recommended (you will need it a lot, particularly on the downhill or with wet conditions). Even a light pair of gloves to keep your hands safe when resting against the rocks might be helpful.

  • To orient yourself, stay on the indicated paths and follow the signs. Don't rely exclusively on your smartphone, which might not have reception or have a low charge, and instead bring a map of the national park with you. The permitted fireplaces and restrooms that are located along the trail are highlighted on the maps.

  • Beautiful spots are available to pause for a late dip at Kälaviken's sandy beach and the fresh waters of the lakes. Be mindful that while you could be hot after your hike, water is typically cold.

    WHERE YOU FIND TOILETS: Entré Syd, Näskebodarna, Tärnättvattnen, Kälaviken.

 

There are alternative trails and routes, of course, but I advise taking this trek at Skuleskogen* (during the summer) because it's balanced to give you a memorable experience of the national park's top locations and scenery.

(*) It's a hike that I have tested and wholeheartedly endorse. @Tominthehighcoast :)


BE IN TUNE WITH THE PARK

#SKULESKOGEN ETIQUETTE

  • keep the curves and the steps in the trails (or limit your go off trail), to avoid to contribute to the erosion of the path

  • leave nothing but footprints (don't litter)

  • keep it wild

  • say hello to those you meet

  • share the experience with other hikers

See also: safety and rules within Skuleskogen National Park >


Recommended places to overnight nearby the Skuleskogen National Park:

 
 

Trailrunning in the High Coast: the #BIG5 paths of the Skuleberget Mount

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The summit of the Skuleberget mountain in Docksta is one of the top destinations for people visiting in Sweden the High Coast UNESCO world heritage.

In every season of the year, a trip at the Skuleberget is a phenomenal opportunity for people and families aiming to have fun spending an exciting day in the Nature.

People running within this natural reserve collect unique sensations and long-lasting memories of epic trailrunning sessions.

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The Skuleberget stands proud on its surrounding area and has bagged itself a mountain status even topping out at “only” 296 m above sea level.

It has the character of a real mountain and encompasses its characteristics:

  • at 286m a.s.l. on its summit, the world’s highest point of land to have been uplifted by a postglacial isostatic rebound

  • natural reserve

  • breathtaking views over the fjords and the islands of the archipelago, and over the surrounding mountains and forests

  • paths in the woods, walkable safely, and segments on large rocks of red Nordingrå granite

  • wide natural areas still wild and parts that became an astonishing playground for hikers, runners, climbers, and skiers

  • hosting ski slopes - with an unique seaview! - and a brand new chairlift on the sunny side of the mountain and, at its steep eastern slope, the climbing routes of the "Via Ferrata"

  • at its summit, few well positioned shelters and the Toppstugan

  • at its feet, the museum Höga Kusten Naturum and the Tourist Center, the Via Ferrata, campsites and accommodation areas, and opportunities for organized outdoor activities (climbing, kayaking, cycling, classes of fitness outdoor).

 
 
 

Trailrunning passionates found at Skuleberget an unique playground because there are at least five different path to follow to run up and down on the mountain.

 
 
 

The #HighCoastRunner group named these five steep segments: “ELK, FOX, BEAR, EAGLE and LYNX”.

They are the “BIG5 uphill paths” of the Skuleberget.

Every walk or run - fast or slow - up to the summit following one of these trails have a proper meaning and will leave emotions in your memory.

Every run on these uphills will push you out of your comfort zone.

 
 
 
 
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Know all the #BIG5 segments

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The FOX path at the Skuleberget

This is the youngest path: it was born in 2017 and it is known as the “Höga Kusten Stigen”.

Facing to southwest, the segment starts strong from the first hundreds of meters in the wood, where it engages you on steeps stairs, roots and stones.

When you're just out of the woods, your track will be an imaginary line drawn on the large rocks that brings you up-up-up to the first peak at the Litoberget.

From there, it will be a never-ending up and down in the wood again, over rocks and terrain paths of stones and roots before to restart again to firmly climb up to the last technical segment that will slow you to see the Toppstugan at the summit of the Skuleberget.

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Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET FOX path [ BIG5™ uphills ]

 

SHARE YOUR #HIGHCOASTRUNNER PASSION:

Celebrate your session up on the FOX path!

 
"SKULEBERGET FOX PATH"
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The EAGLE path at the Skuleberget

This is the shortest and steepest segment to reach the summit following an almost vertical route on the east face of the mountain.

Starting from the museum, the path takes you directly to the top in just 800 meters, climbing big stones and steep steps of stairs fixed into the rocks.

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On this segment, vertical runners and climbers are in their playground, but everyone will really enjoy this mission out of the comfort zone. Remember to have charged your camera: there are breathtaking views from up there that you can’t miss.

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This is a one-way segment, from down to up: to walk it downhill is not recommended. Also wet conditions should have to be avoided, since this hike can become very difficult.

Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET EAGLE path [ BIG5™ uphills ]

 

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Celebrate your vertical run on the EAGLE path!

 
"SKULEBERGET EAGLE PATH"
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The ELK path at the Skuleberget

You'll love to run or walk this segment because the “old yellow" is probably the most preserved path.

It is one of the historic trails leading to the top of the mountain but now very few hikers know it and is rare to meet people up there even during the summer.

It's marked with yellow dots, on trees & stones and few remaining wooden poles.

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The late afternoon and the evening in the summer is the best moment of the day to be there: the light that filters through the trees from west is magical. It's a wonderful segment if you like trailrunning in the real nordic nature.

Downhill it is very technical: a mix of steep segments and challenging trails into the wood. Rocks and roots to "manage" and continue changes of direction. It's 100% pure fun.

During raining days, a lot of water flows downstream on the trail. It happens also to have to jump over a tree, even large ones, that obstructed the path blown down by the wind. It's impossible to lose the flow during this sort of mindful running…

Skuleberget-uphill-path-ELK-BIG5-strava-segment.jpg

Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET ELK path [ BIG5™ uphills ]

 

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Celebrate your exploring the ELK path!

 
"SKULEBERGET ELK PATH"
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The BEAR path at the Skuleberget

The final meters of this segment reaching the summit at the Toppstugan are definitely challenging

The final meters of this segment reaching the summit at the Toppstugan are definitely challenging

Here you are on the ski slopes at the westerly side of the mountain.

The BEAR segment follows the steep terrain road that runs up to the summit from the start of the chairlift (Skulebergets Linbana). It is steep: it starts steep, continues steep, and finishes eve steeper at the summit by reaching the Toppstugan.

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Runners that raced the 43k of Höga Kusten Trail remember this uphill: it represents the shocking final vertical segment that brings them to the finish line (and the second ascend to the peak of the mountain that the competitors run in the last 5k of this fantastic ultra trail).

Skuleberget-uphill-path-BEAR-BIG5-strava-segment.jpg

Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET BEAR PATH [ BIG5™ UPHILLS ]

 

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Celebrate your steep run on the BEAR path!

 
"SKULEBERGET BEAR PATH"
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BIG5-LYNX-PATH-docksta-skuleberget-icon-1.jpg


The LYNX path at the Skuleberget

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If you are in Docksta, don't miss to run this segment, following the northerly path that starts from the east side of the mountain.

If you pass the High Coast tourist center and the museum "Naturum" following the Höga Kusten Leden to North, you find where the LYNX starts: it's a challenging, very steep segment that is shaped on rocks and roots and climbs up in the woods.

It is marked with blue dots of paint on trees and stones. To dominate it, you have to run, walk and also climb, keeping on changing the pace.

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If it's raining hard, you find a lot of mud and water on the trail. In winter, if the snow is deep, it can be really challenging to find the track (check if someone that really knows it have been there marking with his steps the route in the snow before to venture alone up there).

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High Coast runners like this two kilometers uphill trail because there is a sort of tension that brings you up despite the rocks, roots and stones. Nevertheless, in summer it is unusual to find many people there: the trail is very technical and to keep effective your proceeding uphill you need to adapt fast your running to approach the different ground surfaces until the last meters of the segment at the peak.

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seaview-from-the-LYNX-big5-trail-skuleberget-hoga-kusten-lopning-.jpg

Find on Strava.com the segment:

SKULEBERGET LYNX PATH [ BIG5™ UPHILLS ]

 

SHARE YOUR #HIGHCOASTRUNNER PASSION:

Celebrate your hiking the LYNX path!

 
 
"SKULEBERGET LYNX PATH"
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skuleberget-profile-approaching-the-mountain-from-docksta.jpg

The #BIG5uphills are calling your name and are waiting for you in Docksta!


If you're based in Docksta, the trails of the Skuleberget are one step away from your front door (and from the piers of the Marina, too).

All the segments start at a distance that you can cover by running (or walking) during your warm-up.

If you overnight in Docksta or if your boat is moored at the gästhamn, the feet of the mountain are less than 2km from the village.

 
 
 
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Trailrunning the #BIG5

 

High Coast Runner’s tips to get the most of the Skuleberget Mount

 
 
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Roots, mud, rocks and stones, branches and trees, berries, lichens and flowers, leaves and pine needles, ice, snow, water, wind, the sound of your steps and the rhythm of your breathing.

Take your time to walk or run at the Skule: every path is different, with nuances that you can grasp by opening your real senses. Enjoy the outdoors.

 
  • DRINKING WATER: you don’t need to carry large supplies to hydrate yourself because at the summit you can stock up on drinking water at the sink which is available to the hikers you find at the back of the Toppstugan cabin.

  • TOILETS: at the Visitor Center and in the large parking area at the feet of the mountain close to the E4 road. At the summit, close to the Toppstugan and the chairlift's station.

SHOES: the paths are rough: wear a pair with the necessary grip (you will need it a lot, particularly on the downhill or with wet and icy conditions). You will run on ever-changing surfaces, over rocks and stones, encountering roots almost everywhere but also dirt and mud. On the snow, specific outsoles with deep lugs or metallic studs and a good pair of gaiters are reccommended.


Be in tune with the mountain

#BIG5 trailrunning ETIQUETTE

  • keep the curves and the steps in the trails (or limit your go off trail), to avoid to contribute to the erosion of the path

  • leave nothing but footprints (don't litter)

  • keep it wild

  • say hello to those you meet

  • share the experience with other runners


The MAP-POSTER above can be customized with your notes to record your #PB on the #BIG5 upphills.

You find it on the E-SHOP: the collections of map posters tailored for trailrunning in the Höga Kusten >


How to sequence the #BiG5

Do you have 3 trailrunning sessions to spend in Docksta?

Here we would suggest you how to mix the experiences of these paths at Skuleberget:

DAY 1#

LYNX path UPHILL

FOX
path DOWNHILL

DAY 2#

EAGLE (or BEAR) path UPHILL

ELK
path DOWNHILL

DAY 3#

FOX path UPHILL

LYNX
path DOWNHILL

 
The High Coast Runner group is sharing running experiences within the High Coast World Heritage in Sweden: join the group on Strava.com!

The High Coast Runner group is sharing running experiences within the High Coast World Heritage in Sweden: join the group on Strava.com!

 
 
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Do you need info about the Skuleberget #BIG5 and the #HighCoastRunner group?

CONTACT ME:

Tommaso De Rosa

@tominthehighcoast

+46 (0)76.3136909

or +39.335.1309207 (WhatsApp too)
dockstahavet@gmail.com

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HÖGA KUSTEN SOUVENIRS

🧭

HÖGA KUSTEN SOUVENIRS 🧭

HANG YOUR #HÖGAKUSTEN PASSION ON A WALL:

3 days in Docksta: discovering its classic day tours (without a car or a boat)

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If you are lucky to spend your holiday in the High Coast, the Skuleskogen national park, the Ulvön island, and the Skuleberget mountain have to keep a priority place into your summer’s bucket list.

In Docksta, you find the perfect “base camp” to start visit them.



You can even leave your personal means of transport at rest - your own car or boat is not essential to discover the surroundings of Docksta.

Here you have some transportation alternatives:

  • by free bus service, you can reach the nearest entrances of the park;

  • by ferry from Docksta, you can reach the typical fishing village of Ulvön;

  • by walking you can conquer the summit of the Skuleberget just following its beautiful paths or taking the chairlift (if you are not confident with hiking uphill).

 

DAY 1#

Hiking the Skuleskogen best trails

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The National Park is the target of a full day spent hiking and enjoying the beauty of the Höga Kusten world heritage outdoors.

The bus starts from Kustlådan campsite 2km south of the village and stops at Docksta Marina on the E4 (just 50 meters from our piers), then it picks up people at the campsites on the southwest side of the Skuleberget and at the museum & Tourist High Coast Center on the east side, and has a last stop to the campsite at Veåsand before to leave you at the southern entrance of the park. From there, you enter some of the best trails and the most popular spots.

This bus service operates during the summer: here you find more info about how to easily reach the park from Docksta with the summer bus >

One spot recommended:

Start visiting the beaches at the Kälaviken bay and walk the suggestive path in the forest alongside the coastline and step on its beautiful spots seaside. In the morning particularly, it’s an amazing walk with the rays of the low sun entering in the wood from the sea.

 

DAY 2#

Cruising to the charming Ulvön

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It is the ideal trip to discover the beauty of the archipelago and the magic of a renowned fishing village: for its traditional houses and docks and for the delicacy of its fermented fish, the surströmming.

During the summer, the ferry M/S Kusttrafik starts from the harbor in Docksta every morning at 10am. The cruise along the Docksta and Ullångersfjärden covers the nautical miles to Ulvön in one hour while people enjoy the view of the natural coastline from the deck.

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One spot recommended:

Don't miss the short walk to the step up at the Lotsberget hill to the high viewpoint over the village and the harbor or an incursion on the coastline close to the bay of Flågstängsberget that faces toward the open sea to east.

 

DAY 3#

Up-up-up to the Skuleberget

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Walking its trails or taking the chairlift to reach the summit, from the top of the mountain the views over the surroundings are always astonishing.

If you're based in Docksta, the slopes of the mountain are one step away from your front door (and from the piers of the Marina, too). But you can also have an enjoyable ride, lock your bike and start hiking, taking the chairlift, or visiting the museum about the High Coast World Heritage, or… climbing up a route of the Via Ferrata!

ONE SPOT RECOMMENDED:

The Naturum Höga Kusten Museum lies at the foot of the Skuleberget mountain about 3 km walking or biking north of the village: if you want to know more about the highest uplift of the land in the world, and geology & landscapes of the High Coast, start there!

 

Staying in Docksta even few days during your holiday, you will notice that there is no shortage of things to discover and do around here outdoor.

If using your car isn't in your plan or you decided to safely dock your boat, start from here to discover the coastline and inland beauty of the High Coast, where the heart of the world heritage beats even stronger.

 

FREE HIGH COAST INFO MAPS:

HANG YOUR #HÖGAKUSTEN PASSION ON A WALL:

 

We suggest you these readings:

How to reach the Skuleskogen National Park by bus from Docksta

Skuleskogen National Park: overview of the High Coast archipelago from Slåttdalsberget hill.

Skuleskogen National Park: overview of the High Coast archipelago from Slåttdalsberget hill.

It is easier to reach the Skuleskogen from the marina in Docksta. If your are cruising the Höga Kusten, leave your boat safely moored, take the bus and take your walk to the national park.

Overview of Docksta Havet guest harbour. Photo © Courtesy of Mia Wålsten S/Y Atla3

At Docksta Havet sailors find dedicated services and moorings to safely leave their boat during their exploring walks of the surroundings.

From the pier of Docksta Havet, now you can head to the nearest park entrances (named “Entré Syd” and “Entré Väst”) also by bus.

The southerly entrance of Skuleskogen is the nearest to the Slåttdals crevice (Slåttdalskrevan).

The southerly entrance of Skuleskogen is the nearest to the Slåttdals crevice (Slåttdalskrevan).

The bus line is called Världsarvsbussen and the bus ticket is free.

The nearest bus stops from the marina in Docksta are:

“Busshpl E4:an Docksta” (Docksta Marina) that is just 50m from our guest harbour, and “Friluftsbyn” or “Skuleberget Naturum”.

From there the bus takes you to the Skuleskogens Nationalpark, where start the well marked paths of varying degrees of difficulty that lead you to everything worth seeing, within forests, hills, bays.

 

TIMETABLE 2023 of the bus service to the Skuleskogen National Park during the summer

Tidtabell Världsarvsbussen 2023: Tidtabell för sommartrafik vid Skuleberget, alla dagar 1 july - 6 augusti 2023. Source: www.hogakusten.com/en/world-heritage-bus

Main attractions are: Hiking on The spectacular views over the national park´s dramatic landscape and the surrounding High Coast.

The 7 meters wide, 30 meters deep “Hell Gab” crevice, which cleaves the Slåttdal mountain in two.

 
Hiking the natural paths into the Skuleskogen forest

Skuleskogen is one of the few remaining large, ancient forests of the coastal region. The red coloured Nordingrå granite cliffs, the large uplift coast and the coniferous forest, with rare species of lichens, characterize per park.

 
 
 

Hang your #HÖGAKUSTEN passion on a wall:

Safe moorings near Skuleberget & Skuleskogen natural areas

Sailing to Skuleskogen: the National Park between land and sea

One of the best green breaks, in your cruise discovering the High Coast, is a visit to the National Park of Skuleskogen.

The National Park designation is the best a nature area can receive, as well as unique locations of outstanding natural beauty which ensure that nature can be fully experienced.

Skuleskogen is close to Docksta Havet Base Camp so - by bus, or walking/biking from the piers - it's a fantastic destination after your days of serious sailing around the coast!
 

Explore the Skuleskogen National Park sailing the High Coast in Sweden

Suggestions for cruising in the High Coast:
Sailing to Skuleskogen National Park to enjoy its stunning natural beauty

Sights:

  • The views over undulating forest and the sea.

  • Slåttdalsskreven.

  • The Kalottbergen mountains and their forested peaks and bare slopes.

  • The flora.

  • The Bronze Age barrows.

Area: 2,360 hectares. 
Established: 1984, extended 1989. 
 

Location: Approximately 40 kilometres south of Örnsköldsvik in Örnsköldsvik and Kramfors municipalities, Västernorrland County.

Visiting Skuleskogen: Signs on European Highway E4 show the way to the national park. There is an access road from the south via Käl, and from the north via Näske. The High Coast Visitor's Center (Naturum Höga Kusten) provides an introduction to the park´s human and natural history. There are 30 kilometres of hiking trails, as well as three sleeping cabins and two shelters that are open year around.

Skuleskogen National Park is a wild and majestic section of Ångermanland’s “High Coast”, where the rolling hills of the Norrland forest meet the northern Baltic Sea. This roadless wilderness offers the visitor magnificent views over sea and forest, beautiful lakes, verdant spruce-clad valleys, and fascinating geological formations which, more clearly than anywhere else, demonstrate how much of modern Sweden has risen from the ancient sea.

This national park is a heavily undulating rift valley adjoining the coast, featuring forest and outcrops of flat bedrock, in untouched condition where vegetation and animals have been able to develop freely. This area will offer the visitor the opportunity of enjoying fabulous experiences of unspoilt nature. Features especially worth seeing are Slåttdalsskreven, a gorge, 200m long, 40m deep and 7 metres wide, the bronze age cairn, extensive shingle fields, interesting vegetation and, not least, magnificent views of the archipelago. There is a total of thirty kms of marked trails which offer the hiker several alternative circular routes. The High Coast trail crosses the national park. Overnight cabins are located at Skrattaborrtjärn, Lillruten, Tärnättvattnet and Näskebodarna. (Font: www.y.lst.se)

 

HIGH COAST SAILOR'S TIPS:

Sailing to the heart of the World Heritage: experience Skuleberget and Skuleskogen National Park >

 

Skuleskogen National Park (1984) and Nordingrå Nature Conservation Area (1983) are classified Category V - Protected Landscape/Seascape: protected area managed mainly for landscape/seascape conservation and recreation - and defined as "Area of land, with coast and sea as appropriate, where the interaction of people and nature over time has produced an area of distinct character with significant aesthetic, ecological and/or cultural value, and often with high biological diversity. Safeguarding the integrity of this traditional interaction is vital to the protection, maintenance and evolution of such an area."

The purpose of Skuleskogen National Park is to preserve in unspoiled condition a coastal landscape of forest, rocky terrain, fissure valleys and steep rolling hills where plant and animal life may develop naturally. (Font: www.naturvardsverket.se)

 

Skuleskogen is a stupendous area. It combines high mountains, ancient forest and sea coast in a landscape which is without equal in Sweden. Pronounced peaks covered with windswept rocky pine forest are divided by deep rift valleys sculpted by the sea and the inland ice.

There are, in spite of the deserted appearance, traces of human habitation. The oldest of these are Bronze Age burial cairns. The inland ice was unusually heavy here, and pressed the mountains down under sea level. The country has been rising from the sea ever since, to reach today's level of almost 300 metres above sea level. There are also bare boulder fields, swamps and tarns in the park.

The fertile stream valleys are home to many species of bird, such as the very rare grey-headed woodpecker. Several Swedish plants have their most northerly limit in Skuleskogen, for example the decidious trees maple, lime and hazel. The trees are probably relics from warmer ages when deciduous forest was found this far north.

The foremost sights of Skuleskogen are the views of the rolling forest and the sea, Slåttdalsskrevan ravine, Kalottberget mountain with its forested top and treeless slopes, the flora and the Bronze Age burial cairns.

(Font: www.naturvardsverket.se and www.y.lst.se)

Your boat safely moored to start exploring Skuleskogen and Skuleberget

Höga Kusten: the world's highest uplift of land

The mark of the sea level 9.600 years ago, on the top of Skuleberget

Sweden was entirely covered by inland ice around 20,000 years ago. The High Coast was the area where the land surface was pressed down the most by the vast, three-kilometre wide glaciers.

View of a typical High Coastline. Here is Rotsidan.

From Riksantikvarieämbetet (The National Heritage Board), the agency of the Swedish government that is responsible for heritage and historic environment issues, here below is a complete description of the isostatic uplift that was the key reason for the designation of the High Coast as a UNESCO's World Heritage Site:

The High Coast has the highest uplift of land in the world after a period of inland ice.

Höga Kusten - a view of Rotsidan's shoreline

The land arose from the sea after the ice melted 9,600 years ago. Gradually, plants and animals inhabited it. Humans settled the area and made an impact as well. The serene and peculiar landscape features sweeping mountain lines, steep cliffs over the sea and creeks that meander between the islands.

Sweden was entirely covered by inland ice around 20,000 years ago. The High Coast was the area where the land surface was pressed down the most by the vast, three-kilometre wide glaciers. As the ice began to melt, the land began to rebound, and return to its original position. That is the basic explanation of the nearly 800-metres land rise after the peak of the latest Ice Age, called Weichel.

The area is a unique example of how geological forces have drastically altered a landscape in a relatively short period of time. Special phenomena are hemispheric hills with moraines and caps of woods marking the highest shoreline, 286 metres above present sea level. There are also offshore banks reaching up to 260-metres.

There is a varying plant- and animal life on the land and in the water. For example, there are different forest types, different types of coniferous clumps and rare deciduous trees such as hazel, lime and elm. On the cliffs toward the north, you can find exotic alpine species such as the tufted saxifrage, alpine clubmoss, alpine lady's mantle and the three-leafed rush as well as the unusual plant "strandtraven," which only exists on the High Coast.

The relatively quick land uplift has affected the conditions for human life along the shoreline. There are remains of human settlements and continual human activity during a period of 7,000 years, within a distance of 3 kilometres from the present-day shoreline. The shorelines of different eras contain remains of dwelling-places and human traps from the Stone Age, Bronze Age cairns and burial mounds from the Iron Age, as well as piers and house foundations from previous millennium.

High Coast - a view of the sea merging the countryside

The High Coast was inscribed on the World Heritage list in the year 2000. The motivation of the World Heritage Committee: "The site is one of the places in the world that is experiencing isostatic uplift as a result of deglaciation. Isostatic rebound is well-illustrated and the distinctiveness of the site is the extent of the total isostatic uplift which, at 294m, exceeds others. The site is the "type area" for research on isostacy, the phenomenon having been first recognised and studied there." (Font: Riksantikvarieämbetet - More info here)
Photo on the left: Västernorrlands Länsstyrelsen ©