The Scandinavian mountain range, running through most of Sweden and Norway, is one of the most underrated hiking locations on the planet. With its vast valleys and low, snow-capped mountains, this northern mountain chain presents a unique landscape filled to the brink with natural treasures to be discovered. And yet, hardly anyone has it on their bucket list! But there are many reasons why you need to consider going hiking in the Scandinavian mountains:
They Form the Famous Fjords of Norway
Everyone’s heard of the magical fjords of Norway, but few people are aware that they actually make up part of the Scandinavian mountain chain. There aren’t a lot of mountain chains overlooking the ocean like this, making this such a rare location, where the mountains fall into the waters to form these famously beautiful fjords. This alone warrants a visit!
It is Easily Traversed by any Hiker
With its highest peak resting at a modest 2400 meters, the Scandinavian mountain chain is not one of the highest – or steepest – mountain chains out there. And although this doesn’t exactly make it a hotspot for hardcore mountain climbers, it makes the area more than perfect for the thrill-seeking hiker. Because once you remove the steep cliffs, and the need for advanced climbing gear, you get perfect conditions for the hiker who can’t be bothered with too much complicated equipment.
It’s a Prime Location to see the Aurora
There aren’t a lot of mountains in the world that can boast a view of regular and plentiful aurora. But being located so far to the north, the Scandinavian mountains provide a perfect location for spotting this heavenly phenomenon. Whenever the sky is clear and dark enough, there is a high chance of crossing off seeing the Aurora from your bucket list. And the isolation and long distance from any artificial lights don’t exactly ruin the experience.
It can be Safely Hiked in the Dead of Winter
Mountains tend to be dangerous places to be during the winter, with snow storms, avalanches and freezing temperatures. Not so with the Scandinavian mountains! Thanks to its relatively calm location, and its low altitudes, this mountain chain has some of the least inhospitable winter conditions, with many hiking tracks remaining open year round. All you need to do is replace your hiking boots with your skis and head out!
It Experiences the Midnight Sun
As if constant aurora spectacles weren’t enough, the Scandinavian mountains also boast an annual occurrence of midnight sun – a yearly phenomenon with (you guessed it!) sunlight all throughout the night. Being located so far to the north, a big part of the Scandinavian mountain chain stretches above the Arctic Circle. This basically means that, for a few weeks every summer, the sun never sets. It’s quite an experience to stand atop a mountain and watch a sunset that lasts for hours without actually setting.
So if you’re a hiker looking for the experience of a lifetime, don’t forget to add the Scandinavian mountains to your bucket list!
