# Höga Kustenleden

Höga Kustenleden (High Coast Trail) is a long-distance trail in Sweden's High Coast, spanning about 130 km from Hornöberget in the south to Örnsköldsvik in the north. It traverses the High Coast World Heritage Area, offering a unique mix of coastal cliffs, islands, deep forests, and mountains. The trail is typically divided into 13 stages, each with overnight options like campsites or cabins along the way. Hikers will experience elevations up to ~286 m at Skuleberget, the trail's highest point , providing sweeping views of the Baltic Sea and surrounding landscape. A full trek usually takes 5-7 days, but shorter trips covering select stages are also possible.

## Walk
### Hornöberget to Lövvik (9.8 km)

The hike begins at the High Coast Bridge (Högakustenbron) near 62.80417.95161 Hornöberget, where the 1.8 km suspension bridge stretches across the Ångermanälven river. From here, the trail immediately climbs steeply through pine forests, offering sweeping views of the estuary as the bridge fades behind you. Rocky ridges and forested paths lead the way, with a mix of steep sections and softer pine-needled stretches. The Hornöberget viewpoint is a perfect stop to take in the landscape before continuing towards 62.802318.15492 Lövvik. Lövvik, a quiet seaside hamlet, welcomes hikers with camping spots by the bay, small guesthouses, and the striking ArkNat shelter “Stranded”, a rustic overnight spot perched above the water.

### Lövvik to Fjärdbotten (9.6 km)

Leaving Lövvik, the trail winds through mixed forests with gentle climbs, crossing small streams that may dry up in late summer. Early on, a short 800 m detour leads to Valkallen hill, where ropes assist the steepest section up to a historic beacon site. The reward is a sweeping 360° view of the High Coast archipelago, once a vantage point for warning fires. Back on the main path, the route undulates through spruce woods before descending towards 62.816818.15653 Fjärdbotten, a sheltered cove where the trail meets the water. Here, hikers find a simple rest cabin (first-come, first-served), tent spots by the shore, and a peaceful harbor with bobbing boats. There are no shops, so supplies are essential, but water can be filtered from streams or taken from the guest harbor tap when available.

### Fjärdbotten to Gavik (12.8 km)

This stage is a tougher one, with more distance and elevation changes, but rewards along the way. The trail skirts Grönsviksfjärden Bay, where glimpses of the sea appear through the trees, before climbing through dense forest and over rocky hills. Midway, a short side trail leads to Hörsångs Havsbad, a rare sandy beach on this rugged coast—perfect for a swim or a summer ice cream at the small café. Back on the main path, boardwalks cross marshy sections, before the trail begins its descent toward 62.87418.1954 Gavik, a quiet village by the water. Accommodation options are simple: locals sometimes rent cabins, and hikers can camp or use shelters like Nipstugan just before town. Those who took the Hörsångs Camping detour may choose to stay there, with cabins and showers available. Near Gavik, a short marked trail leads to Bölesskogen.

### Gavik to Lappudden (11.5 km)

Leaving Gavik, the trail follows gentle gravel roads and well-trodden paths, rolling through farmland and light forest. About 3 km in, a 700 m detour leads to Rödklitten, a hilltop with sweeping views over lakes and sea. Back on the main trail, the route continues past the Norrfällsviken turn-off, winding through birch groves before descending to 62.931318.25715 Lappudden, a tranquil peninsula on Lake Vågsfjärden. Here, the Lappudden Friluftscenter welcomes hikers with cabins, tent pitches, a lakeside sauna, and rowboat rentals.

### Lappudden to Ullånger (15 km)

This is a long and demanding stage, with the trail leaving Lappudden to weave through mixed forests, over ridges, and across small bogs on plank walkways. The terrain varies—soft forest paths, open stretches with views, and a mid-stage rocky hill climb that, while not steep, adds to the day’s challenge. As you near 63.012118.18676 Ullånger, the trail descends toward civilization, passing under the E4 highway before the church spire and rooftops of Ullånger come into view—a welcome sight after a long trek. Ullånger, one of the larger settlements along the route, offers a hotel, a STF hostel in nearby Skoved, and a grocery store for resupply. Some hikers camp at the sports field, while others opt for a unique stay in the Tree Cube, a modern treetop cabin. If time allows, a short detour leads to Mäjasjöns fäbodar, historic log cabins once used by summer farmers, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life. Ullånger Bay, just a short walk from town, is a peaceful spot to reflect, with water views marking the shift from wilderness to a well-earned rest.

### Ullånger to Skoved (10.5 km)

Leaving Ullånger, the trail gently climbs back into spruce and pine forests, soon reaching the tranquil shores of Mäjasjön Lake. Here, the Mäjabodarna cabins, once used by summer farmers, offer a rustic rest stop before the path continues through rolling woodland, crossing small creeks and skirting quiet ponds. Though this stage lacks dramatic viewpoints, the forest’s stillness, scattered glacial boulders, and ancient rock fields hint at the region’s post-ice age transformation. As the trail nears 63.023418.21817 Skoved, it briefly follows a country lane before reaching this small village near the western entrance of Skuleskogen National Park. The STF Höga Kusten Hostel, a converted barn, provides a comfortable stay, while Docksta Camping & Cabin, about 4 km south, offers additional lodging. Wild camping is permitted beyond Skoved as the trail enters park territory, setting the stage for the more rugged terrain ahead. Those pausing here might spot signs of beaver activity near the streams or sense a change in the air—Skuleskogen National Park is just ahead, marking a shift from forest trails to the dramatic landscapes to come.

### Skoved to Skuleberget (6.8 km)

This short and easy stage blends village streets with forest paths, starting in Skoved and passing through the coastal hamlet of Docksta, where hikers can resupply at a small grocery or enjoy Swedish fika at a bakery. Crossing the main road, the trail soon enters Skuleberget Nature Reserve, circling the base of 63.084318.34998 Skuleberget. The region’s glacial past—this mountain marks the world’s highest ancient coastline (286 m), where the sea once reached during the Ice Age. The trail follows gentle gravel tracks before reaching the stage’s end near the Naturum Höga Kusten visitor center, an excellent stop to learn about the area’s geology and wildlife. Many hikers stay at Skuleberget Basecamp, with Friluftsbyn offering cabins, tent sites, a shop, and a café. The short stage leaves time to explore—ride the Skuleberget chairlift (summer only), hike to the summit for panoramic views, or venture to Skulegrottan, a legendary cave halfway up the cliffs, once said to be a robber’s hideout.

### Skuleberget to Käl (9.2 km)

Leaving Skuleberget, the trail winds northward through mixed pine forests, marking the transition into Skuleskogen National Park. About 5 km in, a detour leads to Bergsbodarna, a hillside meadow where an old mountain farm cabin stands among wildflowers—an inviting rest spot with open views. Back on the main path, the trail crosses into the park near Kälsviken Bay, where the forest gives way to the Baltic Sea’s shore. The terrain here becomes rooty and rocky, but the reward is Kälsviken, a scenic cove with a rare sandy beach, a striking contrast to the High Coast’s rugged cliffs. At 63.1118.489 Käl (Entré Syd), the park’s southern entrance, hikers find shelters, fire rings, and designated tent sites nestled along the shore. Many stay overnight, lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves. There are no shops or water sources, so supplies must be carried or filtered from nearby streams.

### Käl to Näske (8.6 km)

This stage takes you through Skuleskogen National Park, a varied and scenic section of the Höga Kustenleden. The trail begins with a steady climb through old-growth forest, where tall spruces and mossy boulders set a quiet, untouched atmosphere. After about 3 km, you reach Slåttdalsskrevan, a 40-meter-deep gorge cutting through the mountain. Walking between its sheer reddish walls is a unique experience, with wooden steps helping to navigate the rocky floor. Beyond the gorge, a short climb leads to Slåttdalsberget (~250 m), offering wide views of the forest and coastline. The trail then descends past Tärnättvattnet, a still forest lake, and continues toward the coast, where it passes Tärnättholmarna, a series of rocky islets. The final section is gentler, emerging at 63.160618.513910 Näske, where old Näskebodarna fishing huts provide basic overnight shelter. Many hikers choose to camp near Tärnättvattnet or Näskebodarna, while others continue to Näske or Köpmanholmen for lodging. Reaching Näske marks the end of the national park section.

### Näske to Köpmanholmen (6 km)

This easy, flat stage serves as a transition from the wilderness of Skuleskogen to the small coastal town of 63.177318.575311 Köpmanholmen. The route follows a quiet country road, passing scattered farms and red-painted houses in the Nätra region. At times, the road winds along the coast, offering glimpses of the Baltic Sea and offshore islands. With little elevation gain, most hikers complete this stretch in 1-2 hours, making it a relaxing walk. Köpmanholmen offers resupply options, including a grocery store, café, and restaurant, as well as lodging at a hostel or the marina cabins. Some hikers continue onward or take a ferry to Ulvön island, though this detour is outside the Höga Kustenleden. While this stage lacks dramatic landscapes, it provides a cultural contrast, with views of Näskefjärden Bay, art installations near the old pulp mill, and the Wooden Boat Museum by the harbor. It’s a quiet interlude before the final legs of the trail, offering a glimpse into everyday life in the High Coast.

### Köpmanholmen to Sandlågan (12.7 km)

This challenging stage takes you through Balesuddens Nature Reserve, a rugged peninsula with a mix of forest trails, rocky shores, and sea views. Leaving Köpmanholmen, the path quickly enters the reserve, where narrow, winding trails, steep climbs, and rocky coastal sections define much of the journey. About 6 km of the route runs through protected wilderness, with an optional 2 km detour to Balesberget, passing Balestjärnen, a clear forest tarn surrounded by pines. At the summit of Balesberget, a panoramic view of the archipelago makes the climb worthwhile before rejoining the main trail. The hike continues along high cliffs, through old pine forests, and along the shores of Sör-Balesviken Bay, before reaching 63.197118.702912 Sandlågan. Here, hikers find a simple wind shelter and informal tent spots by the treeline—a quiet, remote place to spend the night. There are no services, so carry enough water, refilling from small streams along the way.

### Sandlågan to Svedje (11.6 km)

This stage marks the transition from wilderness to the outskirts of Örnsköldsvik, with a mix of forest trails, gravel roads, and open clearings. Leaving Sandlågan, the trail heads inland, passing through young forests and logging areas before reaching the Småtjärnarna lakes, a peaceful series of small forest ponds. The trail here is less distinct, with boardwalks over wet sections, before joining logging roads for a stretch. As the route nears 63.2618.63513 Svedje, occasional houses and farm fields signal the return to civilization. There are no steep climbs, but a gradual uphill is followed by a gentle descent into Svedje, a quiet residential area on the edge of Örnsköldsvik’s suburbs. While Svedje itself has no official lodging, hikers can wild camp earlier along the trail, particularly near Småtjärnarna, where the ArkNat shelter “Off-Centered” provides a unique overnight option. Most, however, continue the final 4 km to Örnsköldsvik. A small bridge over the Moälven river marks the approach to the city, and in the final stretch, you might spot wooden troll carvings placed along the jogging trails by local residents. While this stage lacks major landmarks, the subtle shift from deep forest to urban outskirts signals that the end of the trail is near.

### Svedje to Örnsköldsvik (4 km)

The final stage of Höga Kustenleden is a short and easy walk, transitioning from suburban paths to one last scenic climb before reaching 63.290818.715614 Örnsköldsvik. Leaving Svedje, the route follows sidewalks and a footpath over the Moälven River, passing through the quiet Hörnett neighborhood. The trail then enters Hörnsjön Nature Reserve, leading up Varvsberget via wooden stairs and forest tracks. At 170 m, the summit offers a final reward—a panoramic view of Örnsköldsvik, its harbor, and the surrounding coastline. From there, a steep descent down zig-zag trails and stairs brings you into the city center, where the trail officially ends at Stadsträdgården park by the waterfront. Örnsköldsvik provides plenty of ways to celebrate: stay at a hotel or hostel, enjoy a meal by the harbor, or even visit the spa water park, Paradiset, to relax. If time allows, explore Örnsköldsvik’s museums, stroll the promenade, or try surströmming (fermented herring)—a local specialty for the adventurous. Reaching the trail’s northern terminus is a moment to reflect—you’ve walked from the High Coast Bridge to here, experiencing forests, cliffs, villages, and coastlines along the way.