Kindla Nature Reserve: Hike in Bergslagen's last wilderness

“The mountain rarely punishes those who pack lightly.” It’s a saying we often hear here at HikingStore, and it’s probably never been more true than when you step into Kindla Nature Reserve. Kindla is not your average Sunday walk; it’s one of the largest roadless areas in central Sweden and a place where nature really does rule.

A few years ago I laced up my boots to explore this piece of untouched Bergslag nature. What I encountered was a terrain that demanded respect – hilly, wild and at times quite challenging. But it was also there that I found that total silence that only a real primeval forest can offer.

In this post, we'll go over everything you need to know about hiking in Kindla: from the dramatic views at Kindlahöjden to the specific camping rules that actually led me to set up camp just outside the reserve's boundary.

A journey through time in the primeval forest

Kindla Nature Reserve covers over 900 hectares and is located on the border between the municipalities of Hällefors and Ljusnarsberg. What makes Kindla unique is that it is so untouched by modern forestry. Here you will find moss-covered blocky lands, ancient willows and firs that have been left alone for hundreds of years.

The terrain is hilly, as I said. It's not the dramatic elevation gain from Sarek, but the constant ups and downs of the Bergslag nature are quickly noticeable in your legs if you're carrying a backpack that's too heavy. It's about finding a rhythm and actually looking up from the path to soak up the raw beauty.

The Kindle Heights: The Reward for Hard Work

If you only visit one point in the reserve, it should be Kindlahöjden. At 425 meters above sea level, it is one of the highest points in Örebro County. Up here is an observation tower that gives you a mile-wide view of the rolling forest landscape.

Standing up there and looking out over an area that is basically roadless is a rare experience in southern and central Sweden. It's a reminder of what the country looked like before it was leveled and built upon. But remember: the road up is steep. This is where you'll thank yourself for choosing that ultra-light backpack instead of an old heavy frame backpack.

Camping in Kindla – Rules you need to know

Here we come to an important point that often creates confusion. When I was hiking in Kindla, I chose to camp just outside the reserve boundary. Why? Well, because camping within the reserve is strictly regulated.

Within Kindla Nature Reserve you are only allowed to camp at the rest area at the southern end of Klosstjärn . You are also only allowed to stay there for a maximum of one night.

Klosstjärn is certainly a fantastic place – a dark, quiet forest star in the heart of the reserve with a shelter from the wind and a fire pit. But if, like me, you prefer the freedom to choose your own campsite according to the weather and the view, the tip is to plan your route so that you end up outside the border when it's time to set up camp. The right of access applies as usual outside the reserve, but inside it is the protection of the untouched environment that comes first.

Why these rules?
The nature in Kindla is sensitive. The grounds are often wet and the moss takes a long time to recover from wear and tear. By concentrating overnight stays at Klosstjärn, we reduce wear and tear on the rest of the primeval forest.

Equipment tips: The lightweight summer pack

Because Kindla's terrain is so hilly and "tough", your pack weight will determine how much you can enjoy it. For a summer hike in Bergslagen, I recommend that you invest in a well-thought-out "Big Three" (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad).

A personal favorite for these trips is the Ice Flame CORELITE . It's a sleeping bag that truly embodies our philosophy at HikingStore: functionality over unnecessary fluff.

When you sleep at Klosstjärn or just outside Kindla, you don't want a sleeping bag that's designed for arctic expeditions. You want something that will give you a good night's sleep so you can tackle the next day's hilly terrain with fresh legs. However, the ground chill can creep in even in June, so be sure to combine it with a good sleeping pad .

Practical advice for your trip

1. Water: There are plenty of streams and ponds, but during dry summers the smaller streams can dry up. Be sure to refill at Klosstjärn.
2. Footwear: Kindla is wet. Even though it hasn't rained in a week, there is plenty of mud and marsh. Waterproof boots or trail runners that dry quickly are a must.
3. Navigation: The trails are well marked with orange paint, but in primeval forest it can sometimes be difficult to see the markings if a large tree has fallen. Always bring a map (Terrängkartan 604 Nora is good to have).
4. Safety: Mobile phone coverage can be patchy in the valleys. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

Conclusion: The balance between weight and experience

Kindla Nature Reserve reminds us why we hike. It’s not about racking up miles on flat ground, but about challenging yourself in a real environment. By respecting the rules of camping and choosing the right equipment – like a lightweight Lanshan tent and a compact sleeping bag – you give yourself the best chance of a successful trip.

The wilderness punishes those who are unprepared, but it rewards those who hike with ease and respect. See you at Kindlahöjden!

/Anders, HikingStore

Want to know more about how to optimize your packing for your next adventure? Check out our selection of ultralight gear or read our other guides on the blog.