Abisko National Park
Abisko nationalpark · Norrbotten, Sweden (Lake Torneträsk)
A lakeside national park 195 km north of the Arctic Circle, free of light pollution, at the start of the King's Trail.
Know before you go
- Don't light fires or pick plants in the national park
- in winter don't leave the trails alone to head into the mountains
This article is Not yet verified. Please check official announcements for prices, opening hours and dates.
Culture
Culture & customs
Background
Abisko National Park was established in 1909, the same year Sweden passed its first nature conservation law. The park stretches about 15 km south-west from the shore of Torneträsk, one of Sweden's largest lakes, 195 km north of the Arctic Circle: in summer you can see the midnight sun, and in winter the absence of light pollution makes it ideal for watching the northern lights. The 440-km Kungsleden ('King's Trail') hiking route along the Scandinavian Mountains starts (or ends) at the Abisko tourist station. The park also has a research station carrying out long-term climate, ecology and geology research.
Local customs
- Sweden has the 'right of public access', letting you hike and camp in nature as long as you don't damage the environment or disturb others
- national parks have stricter rules
Etiquette
Etiquette & taboos
Rules that apply here
Sweden: winter tyres are compulsory in winter
- From 1 December to 31 March, make sure your hire car has winter tyres
- Driving on ordinary tyres in winter
It is a legal requirement.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Sweden travel advice
Sweden: drugs, including cannabis, are strictly prohibited
- Stay away from drugs of any kind
- Possessing, using or carrying drugs, even in small amounts
Up to 10 years in prison and heavy fines.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Sweden travel advice
Don’t DON'T
- Don't light fires or pick plants in the national park
- in winter don't leave the trails alone to head into the mountains
Locals appreciate DO
Swedes appreciate visitors who follow national-park rules and take their rubbish away.
Plan your visit
Practical info
| Best time | September–March, at night |
|---|---|
| Time needed | 2–3 days |
Travel tips
- Abisko lies between Kiruna and Narvik in Norway, and trains stop at Abisko Turiststation
- the Icehotel near Kiruna is also famous. Winters are extremely cold, so watch for avalanche and weather warnings. The aurora depends on solar activity and weather, so check the aurora forecast (Kp index) and cloud cover before you go
- chances are usually best between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Get away from city lights, bring a tripod and dress very warmly.
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