Vildmarksvägen (Wilderness Road) - road trip with a real mountain feel
The Wilderness Road is Sweden's highest paved road and offers an easily accessible mountain feel and lots of experiences. Here, above the tree line, it almost feels like mountain hiking by car. You can drive it both clockwise and counterclockwise, but I prefer to go counterclockwise - Trappstegsforsen shows its most photogenic side and the mountain feeling then grows with each kilometer as the road winds up towards the mighty Stekenjokk plateau, and then further on you get a beautiful view when you drive down towards Stora Blåsjön.
The Wilderness Road stretches through an enormous area that is full of sights, natural experiences and cultural history. In this guide, I have made a road trip with some gems that are easy to reach by car, motorcycle or camper, but there is an incredible amount more to discover. The seasons give the trip its unique character; Summer beckons with open cafes and activities and there is a special feeling at the opening of the season when the snow still lies on the mountains. Autumn is my favorite, however, as it offers colorful landscapes and tranquility, when there are fewer tourists and nature is in full splendor.
Do you want to experience the Wilderness Road for real? Do it twice – once in the summer and once in the autumn – and discover two completely different but equally magical worlds. Why not go clockwise once and counterclockwise the other time.
NOTE! There are very few opportunities to throw garbage along Vildmarksvägen. There are no opportunities at rest areas etc. so make sure to take care of it when you are in a community or at a campsite where there is an opportunity. There is an opportunity in, for example, Strömsund, Klimpfjäll and Stora Blåsjön (at ICA for a fee). There are also some rest areas along the E45 between Strömsund and Vilhelmina where it is possible. Of course, nothing is thrown into nature!
For instructions how to use map below see under main map here
1, Vilhelmina – church town, culture and top-class camping
Vilhelmina is a charming inland town with a rich cultural history. Here you can stroll through the well-preserved church town, where the small timbered church cottages are reminiscent of the time when long-distance parishioners lived here during church holidays. Don't miss Samevistet, where you get an insight into Sami culture and traditions.
For overnight stays, Kolgården's camping is a gem – in my opinion, one of Sweden's finest campsites. The location by the water is magical, the area is well-maintained and the atmosphere is family-friendly. There is also a really good restaurant here with well-cooked food and wonderfully friendly owners who make you feel at home.
2, Dorotea – the gateway to the mountains and a nostalgic trip on wheels
Dorotea may be a small town, but it offers one of Sweden's most unusual and charming museums – the Caravan Museum. Here you can step straight into the history of camping life and see everything from the small and simple caravans of the 60s where you had to duck to avoid hitting your head on the roof to modern houses on wheels with all the amenities. It's like a journey through time where each caravan tells its own story – and you might even find a model that brings back childhood memories or makes you smile at how things used to be.
3, Borgafjäll – a beautiful detour from Vildmarksvägen
Borgafjäll is located as a nice detour from Dorotea and offers a restful mountain environment and scenic experiences. The alternative is to drive directly from Dorotea to Vilhelmina and on to Stalon, which is shorter, but then you miss out on a beautiful road, great views and lots of experiences. The road from Borgafjäll to Stalon is gravelled in the last part but in very good condition and easy to drive, even with a camper or motorbike.
4, Stalon – a fantastic view of the mountains
Above Stalon power station there is a fantastic viewpoint. The road up is narrow and offers few meeting opportunities – but the reward is worth every metre. Up here a panorama opens up that almost takes your breath away: mountains rising on the horizon, deep forests stretching for miles and water sparkling in the light. In autumn the landscape burns in red, yellow and orange while summer offers endless shades of green. It is a place to linger, let your eyes wander and just take in the grandeur of the Wilderness Road landscape.
Down by the river there is a nice wild camping spot.
5, Dimforsen – the power of nature and the tranquility in beautiful union
Dimforsen is an impressive rapid that shows the raw power of the wilderness while offering an almost meditative calm. The water rushes forward with powerful energy, surrounded by lush forest and dramatic boulders that create a beautiful and exciting environment.
The access road down to the rapids is quite steep, so if you have a car with limited ground clearance, it is best to park up by the road. From the parking lot you can take a short walk that takes you really close to the rapids – but don’t do what most people do and stop there. Instead, continue along the rapids through the forest where you get even nicer views and more untouched nature. After a while you will arrive at a rest area by a charming little suspension bridge, perfect for a break and to enjoy the magnificent nature.
6, Litsjöforsens rest area – easily accessible beauty with mountain views
Litsjöforsens rest area is an easily accessible oasis with a fantastic view of the rapids and the mighty mountains in the background. Here you can enjoy the peace and power of the wilderness without having to hike far. During autumn, the landscape becomes extra magical when the surrounding mountains and forests burn in vibrant colors – a perfect place for both rest and photography.
7, Trappstegsforsen – nature’s own staircase of water
Trappstegsforsen is one of the most popular experiences on the Wilderness Route. Here, the water plunges down a series of large, staircase-like boulders, creating a powerful and photogenic spectacle. Meeting the rapids from the “right” direction when driving counterclockwise really makes the whole experience even better. It is a place where both ears and eyes are filled with nature’s raw energy and beauty.
8, Marslidens mountain village – charm, mountainside tranquility and a swimming spot with a magical view
Marslidens mountain village is a picturesque little village that is well known through Bernhard Nordh’s books about the settlers who came to Marsliden in the 19th century. Here, traditional mountain cabins are mixed with a calm atmosphere, perfect for those who want to enjoy the tranquility and fresh mountain air. The village is a great base for hikes and excursions in the area with proximity to magnificent nature and views that make every moment memorable.
Just outside Marsliden is the replica of Pålsson’s cabin, which was the first new building in the village known from the books. It takes you back to a time when life in the mountains was simpler but just as beautiful. Just before Marsliden, a magical swimming spot awaits with a soft sandy beach surrounded by mighty mountain peaks. Here it is easy to forget time and space – dipping your toes in the clear water, letting the sun warm you and enjoying the breathtaking view is an experience that stays with you long after you have left the place. Perfect for both quiet family days and for those who love the tranquility of nature.
9, Saxnäs Rest Area – a break with mountain views and peaceful nature
The Saxnäs Rest Area is a perfect place to stop and enjoy the beautiful mountain environment along the Vildmarksvägen. Here you will be greeted by expansive views of Marsfjället and Kultsjön. Take a relaxing break and perhaps a coffee in the open air.
10, Fiskonfallet – a mighty wall of water in the arms of the mountains
Fiskonfallet is a beautiful and peaceful place where the water plunges down in a wide and mighty wall of water surrounded by mountains and dense greenery. Here you can enjoy both the peace and power of nature up close.
The path from the parking lot to the rapids can be a little difficult to find. When you enter the parking lot, look about halfway up the far side – there is a sign hidden in the forest that shows the right way.
The path from the parking lot may seem a little longer than the 300 meters marked, but just continue straight on the path and you will soon reach a nice viewpoint above the rapids. For the best experience, you can hike down to the rapids themselves, but be aware that the path is very steep – walk carefully and wear proper shoes.
11, Fatmomakke church town – Sami culture and peaceful atmosphere
Fatmomakke is one of the most well-preserved and vibrant church towns in Sweden, where small timbered cottages and huts gather around the church and tell the story of Sami history and tradition. Here, history feels close and the place offers a unique cultural experience and a very special, peaceful atmosphere.
It is possible to park your camper overnight for a small fee, but without any additional service. For me, autumn is the best time to visit Fatmomakke – then there is a quiet calm and the nature around the church town shines in the warm colors of autumn, which enhances the magical feeling.
12, Klimpfjäll – scenic hike with 7 rapids
Klimpfjäll is a cozy mountain village that is a perfect starting point for hiking adventures in the wilderness. One of the most popular tours is the hike to 7 rapids, where you can follow a beautiful path along several roaring waterfalls. The hiking trail passes the impressive Kullafallet, a place that offers both impressive views and the peace that only nature can give. About halfway along the trail, a fantastic view of the mountains opens up before you turn back towards the start of the trail.
The hike is relatively accessible and is suitable for both families and more experienced hikers who want to experience the magic of the mountains up close. Park at the ski lift and walk out onto the lighted trail that runs next to it and follow it forward a few hundred meters and it is well signposted from there. The first part is divided by the troll path which is a short hike for children with figures of trolls etc. If you see the troll, you are on the right track.
13, Stekenjokk Plateau – expansive views
The Stekenjokk Plateau is one of the highlights along the Wilderness Route. Here you are greeted by a barren, impressive mountain landscape where the expanses seem endless and the air is clear and fresh. In autumn, the plateau explodes with vibrant colours, making the visit extra magical.
The plateau is also a popular place to spend the night with a camper van or car with a roof tent.
14, The cement bunker at Stekenjokk – a fascinating relic from the history of the mountains
At the Stekenjokk plateau lies an unusual and exciting place – the cement bunker, a relic from a time when the area was used for construction and military purposes. The robust bunker, embedded in the barren mountain landscape, is a reminder of the human impact on an otherwise untouched nature.
There are fine views of the mountains here and there is also the possibility of parking overnight with a camper van, making it an interesting and practical place to stop during the journey along the Wilderness Road. It is also a good starting point for shorter hikes in the mountains.
15, Gaustafallet – easily accessible waterfall in the wilderness
In my opinion, Gaustafallet is one of the most beautiful waterfalls along the Wilderness Road, where the water cascades down cliffs and creates a powerful and impressive wall of water. It is easily accessible, a short walk from the parking space by the road. Here you can feel the raw power of nature and get a moment of peace in a spectacular environment. Don't miss walking a bit up the waterfall and enjoy the views with the mountains in the background.
16, Exit Leipikvattnet
Directly at the exit towards Leipikvattnet you have a fantastic view from the bridge over turquoise water with the mountains on the horizon. One of the most photo-friendly environments along the way that should not be missed!
17, Ankarede chapel – a historical gem in the mountain world
Ankarede chapel was built in 1895 and is one of the oldest church buildings in the area. It is built in a traditional style with wood and has long been a gathering place for the local community, not least for the Sami inhabitants of the mountain region. The chapel reflects the cultural diversity of the region and is an important part of the history of how people have lived and worked in the barren mountain environment through generations. The chapel offers a peaceful atmosphere and is an important part of the area's cultural history. A visit here provides a break from the adventures of nature and a chance to reflect in a quiet and harmonious environment.
18, Stora Blåsjön – scenic location and nice camping
Stora Blåsjön is a beautifully situated mountain village with a campsite that is located in a fantastically beautiful location by the water. There are even a few places where you can park your camper and have a view straight out over the lake and the mountains. The campsite offers good service and is run by a very nice owner who does his best to make you feel comfortable. For those of you who need to stock up on food, there is also a small ICA store in the village, perfect for stocking up for your mountain adventure. The campsite also offers freshly baked cinnamon buns or rolls for breakfast that are delivered directly to your door whether you rent a cabin or camp there.
19, Mittila rapids – powerful nature in the middle of the wilderness
In the small village of Mittila there is a beautiful rapids well worth a stop. Surrounded by untouched forest and boulders, the rapids feel like a pulsating artery in the wilderness. Here it is easy to stop, breathe in the fresh air and be fascinated by the power and beauty of nature
20, Brakkåfallet – waterfall with swimming and film history
Brakkåfallet consists of an upper and a lower fall, where the lower is the most famous and spectacular. During the summer you can also swim in the clear water, which makes the place a lovely oasis for both nature experience and a refreshing dip.
From the parking lot, most visitors walk straight ahead on the trail up in the forest and unfortunately miss the lower fall. To find the right, instead go directly left from the parking lot and over the old road bridge. Just after the bridge there is a sign that shows the way to the right down to the fall. The last part of the path is quite steep and can be slippery, so make sure to wear good shoes and take it carefully when you go down.
Brakkåfallet is also famous from Beppe Wolger's classic film "Dunderklumpen" which gives the place an extra charm and cultural-historical dimension.
21, Vikens kapell – a quiet and peaceful place
Vikens kapell is a charming little wooden church built at year 1799, beautifully situated by the water in a peaceful mountain environment. Surrounded by mountain lakes and majestic mountain peaks, the chapel offers a perfect place for peace and reflection. The simple architecture and the peaceful surroundings give a strong sense of history and connection with nature.
A visit here provides a nice break from the adventures of the Wilderness Road and an opportunity to experience the unique combination of culture and nature that characterizes the region.
22, Hällingsåfallet – a powerful waterfall in the heart of the wilderness
Hällingsåfallet is one of Sweden's largest and most impressive waterfalls, where the mighty Hällingsån river plunges into a deep ravine surrounded by untouched wilderness. The place offers a breathtaking nature experience with powerful noise and spectacular views that really make an impression. There are nice hiking trails here that take you close to the falls and into the surrounding forest and mountains.
Just before you get to the parking lot, there is also the Skjulsvattnet rest area, which offers great opportunities for a coffee or maybe grilling a sausage surrounded by gushing water.
23, Strömsund – local history museum supervised by Dunderklumpen
Strömsund is a charming small town with a living local history museum where you can take part in local history and culture. A special attraction is the connection to Beppe Wolger's classic film Dunderklumpen, which is also available as a statue in the area. The local history museum offers exhibitions and memorabilia from the film, which makes the visit extra exciting for both young and old.
Give the Wilderness Road the time it deserves
Of course, you can do the whole route or parts of it in one day if you are traveling through to the south or north and then get a mountain experience in the process. But to truly enjoy the peace and quiet that nature here offers, you need to give yourself several days on the journey. Let each stop, each view and each experience take its time. When you slow down and open your senses, the journey becomes more than just a journey through the landscape – it becomes a moment of recovery and wonder.
Give yourself the opportunity to stop, breathe in the fresh mountain air and let the magic of the Wilderness Road sink into your heart. Only then does the real experience begin.
