Reindeer in the mountains

As a visitor in the Swedish mountains and in all areas where reindeer herding is practiced, it is important that you do not disturb or scare the reindeer. Together with SSR - the Swedish Sami Association, here are some tips on what you should keep in mind.

Experiencing the mountains is wonderful. But remember that you are only a temporary visitor and that you should show consideration for all  animals living there. Feel free to enjoy the beautiful reindeer from a distance but let them be and do not get too close. This is especially important during the spring, from April to June. During this time, the reindeer are particularly sensitive to disturbances because the females are pregnant and giving birth to their calves. Stressed females risk losing their calves before birth. And when the herd is disturbed, calves and mothers can get separated – young reindeer calves cannot survive on their own. Therefore, make sure to keep a distance and give the reindeer space to graze undisturbed!

How to avoid disturbing the reindeer

1. When you see reindeer, stop, sit down, and be quiet. Let the reindeer pass at their own pace.
2. Never walk directly towards a grazing reindeer – take a detour if necessary.
3. Is the herd moving away? Then you’ve already gotten too close.
4. Does the reindeer lift its head and tail while pointing its ears? That’s a clear sign of stress, and you should back off.
5. Always keep your dog on a leash and close to you. The reindeer could instinctively perceive the dog as a threat.
6. Feel free to ask at the nearest tourist office, mountain station, or mountain lodge where the reindeer are currently located and avoid those areas.
7. Also show respect and consideration for the reindeer herders. Stay out of the way and let them do their job. You are on their workplace.

What does STF do to support reindeer and reindeer herding?

• Works to reduce visitor pressure on the most popular parts of the mountain range and spread visitors across seasons to avoid disturbances.
• Closes our mountain accommodations in reindeer grazing areas in April to reduce the number of visitors during the reindeer’s most sensitive period.
• Does not offer ski touring courses in Jämtland’s mountains in April, as the risk of causing disturbance is high.
• Actively works to reduce helicopter transports during the summer to avoid disturbing the animals. Instead, we stock our supplies and freezers in winter when transportation on snow is possible.
• Collaborates with Sami villages around our mountain lodges on matters like transportation and group activities.
• Regularly informs our guests about the needs of the reindeer and the importance of not disturbing them.

Discover more

Mountain guide

Which peaks are the highest? What should I keep in mind if I encounter reindeer? What is it like to stay at a mountain station?

Mountain safety

Learn about avalanches, find out how to best prevent injuries, or read about how to safely ford rivers during your hike.

Mountain hiking

The Swedish mountain range stretches from Treriksröset in the north to Dalarna in the south. Here, breathtaking landscapes and hundreds of miles of marked hiking trails await.