The Sjuhäradsleden trail
The Sjuhäradsleden trail starts in Hindås and passes through Borås and Ulricehamn before ending in Mullsjö. The 140 kilometer long trail is divided into ten sections. Below, we describe sections 5–9. This pleasant stretch runs from Rya åsar, north of Borås, to the STF Årås Kvarn Hostel.
The Sjuhäradsleden trail in short
Cover image: Outdoor Sjuhärad, Sjuhäradsleden, 2019.
Map of Sjuhäradsleden
Navigate past map or other external content.This map is a planning tool and should not replace a physical map and compass. The service “Naturkartan” is operated by a company called “Outdoor map”. Please note that trail information is owned and updated by the respective trail administrator (e.g. municipality or county administrative board).
Discover Sjuhäradsleden
The trail runs through a variety of landscapes, making it an exciting journey. From peaceful and calming stretches in forests and farmland, to sections passing through towns. The proximity to communities makes it easy to customize your hike, with plenty of options for stage starts and endpoints. Almost every stage has dry toilets, shelters, and designated rest areas.
Since 1991, Sjuhäradsleden has been part of the international hiking route E1, which begins in Italy and ends in Grövelsjön, Sweden. At the trail’s starting point in Hindås, it connects with the Vildmarksleden leading to Gothenburg. At the trail’s endpoint in Borås, it links to the Västra Vätterleden.
See and do along the trail
Since the trail passes through towns and cities, you can easily combine your hike with a city visit. Borås Zoo is another charming attraction nearby.
Don’t miss
Consider staying a few extra nights at the endpoint, STF Årås Kvarn Hostel in Kölingared. They offer a variety of fun events during spring, summer, and fall.
Transport to the trail
Take a train (sj.se) to Borås, then continue by bus using public transport (vasttrafik.se) to locations like Björbostugan. From there, it’s a 1.5-kilometer walk to the start, the Ramshulan Rya Åsar Nature Reserve. Parking is available for those traveling by car. The trail starts here. (Google Maps link)
Trail markers
The trail is marked with orange markings on posts.
Sections of the Sjuhäradsleden
Below are descriptions of the various sections of the Sjuhäradsleden, including distances, accommodations, and other relevant hiking information.
You can, of course, hike in the opposite direction from the order presented.
Section 1: Rya Åsar (north of Borås) – Karlsaflogarna
19 kilometers, 5–6 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Tent
Rya Åsar is a nature reserve and a popular recreational area north of Borås. If you’re driving, parking is available here. The hike begins in deciduous forest and gradually transitions into wilder terrain as you go. You’ll pass Borås Camping, the Sjöbo district, and Krypegården Outdoor Center, so you’ll be close to shops if you need food and drink. There are grilling spots along the route, so feel free to stop and cook a meal. There are also grilling facilities at the section’s endpoint.
Section 2: Karlsaflogarna – Blockared
20 kilometers, 6–7 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Tent
This section takes you along gravel roads, tractor paths, and trails. Unlike the first day, you won’t pass any major towns. The surroundings are dominated by charming farmland and forests. At Slätten, you’ll pass an old agricultural landscape. About halfway, you’ll reach Raska Mina’s cabin, a perfect spot for a packed lunch.
Section 3: Blockared – Prångens Camping in Ulricehamn
12 kilometers, 4–5 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Tent or cabin at Prångens Camping (not STF) or other accommodations in Ulricehamn
Today’s route is dominated by scenic forest roads. You will sometimes pass through grazing pastures, so be sure to close any gates behind you. Towards the end of the day, you’ll reach the Brunn Church Ruins. The trail doesn’t pass through Ulricehamn’s town center, but it’s a short distance away if you want to combine your hike with a cozy town visit. There are no designated rest areas along this section.
Section 4: Prångens Camping – Böne Church
15 kilometers, 4–5 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Tent
The day begins along an old railway embankment that is now a walking and cycling path. Along the way, you’ll pass several ancient fields—abandoned farmland shaped by historical farming methods. You’ll recognize them by the characteristic rows of moss-covered stones. Midway, you’ll find Jordkulan, an old emergency shelter, which makes a great spot for a break.
Section 5: Böne Church – STF Årås Kvarn Hostel
12 kilometers, 4–5 hours of hiking
Accommodation: STF Årås Kvarn Hostel
Today’s hike passes through several small communities. The entire stretch follows paved and small gravel roads. A couple of kilometers before the endpoint, you’ll reach a beach along Varpaledet. The section ends at your beautiful accommodation, STF Årås Kvarn Hostel.
Accomodations along the trail
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