The Vasaloppsleden trail
One of Sweden's most beloved hiking trails is the Vasaloppsleden. The motto "in the footsteps of our forefathers for future victories" truly applies to more than just skiers. The stretch between Berga by and Mora is popular year-round. During the summer months, it’s explored by bike, hiking boots, or running shoes. The joy of reaching the finish line in Mora is always the same, regardless of the gear or season.
The Vasaloppsleden trail in short
Map of Vasaloppsleden
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 Vasaloppsleden
In the 1500s, Gustav Vasa fled from the Danish king Christian II, seeking support in the parishes of Dalarna. Initially rejected, the people of Dalarna later realized the king’s malicious intentions and sent a group of men on skis to bring Gustav back. They found him, and he returned to Mora to lead the rebellion against the occupying forces. 400 years later, a ski race was organized to honor Gustav Vasa’s memory, becoming an immediate success.
Today, the Vasaloppet Arena is active year-round. Vasaloppsleden is an easy trail to hike, with the only steep section being at the start and up towards Risberg. After that, it’s a gentle downhill slope all the way to Mora. The hike can be completed without a tent, as there are nine cabins along the trail. Overnight stays cost 50 kronor, payable via Swish, but the cabins cannot be booked in advance. Firewood is provided, but you’ll need to bring cooking utensils. You must also carry all your food from the start, as there are no food supplies available along the way.
Below, the trail is described in five hiking days, but there are other ways to plan your hike.
See and do along the trail
There are great fishing opportunities in several places, so don’t forget your fishing permit. In autumn, you’ll often find cloudberries, blueberries, lingonberries, and mushrooms along the trail.
Don’t miss
The Vasaloppet Museum in Mora, where you can learn all about the long history of the Vasaloppet.
Transport to the trail
One option is to take the train (sj.se) to Mora and then a bus (dalatrafik.se) to Berga By. Alternatively, you can drive to Mora, park your car in the long-term parking area, and take the bus to Berga By. The hiking trail starts here. (Google Maps link)
Trail markers
Clear markings with hiking symbols in orange. For cycling, the color is green, and for skiing, it’s black. Information boards are placed at several points along the trail.
Sections of Vasaloppsleden
Below are descriptions of the various sections of Vasaloppsleden, including distances, tips on nearby accommodations, and other relevant hiking information. More information on each section can be found at Vasaloppet.se/vandring.
You can, of course, hike in the opposite direction from the order presented.
Section 1: Berga by–Smågan
11 kilometers, 4 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Cabin in Smågan, shelter available
The trail initially runs through beautiful spruce forests and starts at the same place as the Vasaloppet ski race. After just three kilometers, you reach the trail’s highest point at 528 meters above sea level. You’ll round the southern tip of Lake Valsjön before reaching Smågan. The cabin is located by Lake Smågarna, known for good fishing. During berry season, nearby marshes are great for picking cloudberries.
Section 2: Smågan–Risberg
24 kilometers, 7 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Cabin in Risberg
On day two, you’ll pass Mångsbodarna about halfway through the section, where you can refill your drinking water. After Mångsbodarna, the trail runs next to the road. West of Risberg, Gustav Vasa once hid in a bear’s den overnight. Fortunately, you can sleep in the cabin instead!
Section 3: Risberg–Oxberg
27 kilometers, 7–8 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Cabin a few kilometers before Oxberg
The third day is the longest in this itinerary, but the route is easy to hike. The cabin is located just before Oxberg, so the day’s hike is slightly shorter than 27 kilometers. Midway, you’ll pass Evertsberg, where you can refill your drinking water. Why not take a dip in Lake Skeppshussjön? The final hill up to Oxberg is famous, as the Vasaloppet has often been decided here.
Section 4: Oxberg–Eldris
19 kilometers, 6 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Cabin in Eldris
Between Oxberg and Hökberg, you can make a worthwhile detour to the top of Gopshusberget, offering a beautiful view over the sparkling Österdalälven. In Hökberg, you’ll pass through scenic fäbod (traditional summer farm) areas.
Section 5: Eldris–Mora
9 kilometers, 3 hours of hiking
Accommodation: Mora Målkullan Hostel
The final day is just nine kilometers long, giving you plenty of time to explore Mora. Right next to the finish line, you’ll find Mora Målkullan Hostel.
Accomodation along the trail
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