Hiking in Uppland: Upplandsleden, coastal Roslagen and deep forests

Uppland is a landscape that offers everything from open plains to dramatic coastline. Here, nature is easily accessible, and whether you start from Uppsala or Stockholm, there are fantastic hiking destinations within easy reach.

Top choice for hikers in Uppland

1. Upplandsleden – The trail stretches over 500 km through the entire county. It is divided into three main parts: Mälaren to Uppsala, Uppsala to Gävle, and a separate part on the coast. Here you can experience everything from deep forests in the north to historic mill environments.
2. Roslagsleden – A coastal dream that stretches 190 kilometers from Danderyd to Grisslehamn. It takes you through untouched forests, past old castles and along the cliffs of the Baltic Sea.
3. Florarna – Uppland's largest bog area. Here you get an almost mountain-like feeling with expansive views and quiet paths. Perfect for those who want to get away from the noise of the city.

Pack right for the Upplandsleden trail

When planning your trip in Uppland, choosing a backpack for hiking is crucial. The coastal sections of the Roslagsleden can get quite windy, so make sure your hiking tent is wind-resistant. A lightweight tent is perfect if you plan on hiking longer stretches of the Upplandsleden, as it saves you energy and gives you the freedom to camp in the most beautiful spots along the way. Remember to always check the weather forecast before heading out into the open bogs at Florarna!

In this guide, we go through the main hiking trails in the landscape, discuss how to choose the right equipment for the terrain, and why the balance between weight and function is crucial for a successful trip.

Upplandsleden: 500 kilometers of variety

The Upplandsleden Trail is the backbone of the landscape. With its more than 500 kilometers, divided into 45 stages, it stretches from the bays of Lake Mälaren in the south to the Dalälven archipelago in the north. It is a trail that requires you to think about your choice of backpack for hiking , as the surface varies greatly between soft forest paths and hard gravel roads through historic working environments.

Florarna – Uppland's wilderness

If you are looking for a sense of isolation, the Florarna nature reserve north of Österbybruk is the obvious choice. This is one of southern Sweden's largest continuous bog and forest areas. Here you often walk on footbridges over open bogs where the silence is only broken by cranes and common snipe.

For an overnight stay in Florarna, a light and stable hiking tent is preferable. Although there are open rest huts like Risön, having your own tent gives you the freedom to camp where the view is at its best. Keep in mind that the ground in these areas can be damp; a tent with a reliable "footprint" or a tent floor with a high water column is a pragmatic investment to avoid ground moisture.

Roslagsleden: From suburb to sea gap

The Roslagsleden trail starts where Stockholm ends (Danderyd) and stretches 190 kilometers up to Grisslehamn. The first part of the trail is characterized by cultural landscapes and Viking Age remains, while the northern stages offer dramatic sea views.

Coastal hiking and wind protection

When moving along the coast, for example on the stages between Gåsvik and Grisslehamn, the wind becomes a factor to be reckoned with. This places higher demands on your hiking tent . A tunnel tent that is set up with the short side facing the wind is often the most stable choice on the coast.

Hiking along Väddö Canal is one of the highlights of the trail. Here you can watch boat traffic glide by while you move at your own pace. It's a reminder that equipment is a means to an end: being able to enjoy your surroundings without being distracted by chafing or a backpack that's too heavy.

The right backpack for hiking in Uppland

Choosing a backpack for hiking is not about finding the one with the most features, but about finding one that fits your anatomy and your intended packing list. In Uppland, where the terrain is relatively flat compared to the mountains, you can be tempted to pack too much. But even here, every extra kilo is noticeable in your legs after a two-mile hike on the Upplandsleden trail.

• Day trips: A 20–30 liter bag is plenty for extra clothing, water and lunch.
• Overnight stay: If you are carrying a tent, sleeping bag and kitchen, you should look at backpacks between 45 and 65 liters. Make sure the carrying system transfers the weight to your hips.
• Waterproof: Upland weather can change quickly. An integrated rain cover or waterproof packing bags inside the backpack are mandatory to keep your gear dry.

Choosing a hiking tent: Function over aesthetics

When choosing a hiking tent for tours in Uppland, you should ask yourself: What will the tent actually handle? In protected forest terrain like Fiby virgin forest, most tents work well, but in open landscapes or on the coast, wind stability and ventilation are crucial.

Many hikers prioritize extreme lightness, but we at HikingStore always remind you that a good night's sleep is non-negotiable to power through the next day's stage. A tent that is too small to fit your backpack in the vestibule, or that has poor ventilation so that condensation drips onto the sleeping bag, will quickly feel like a bad purchase.

Sleep: More than just a sleeping pad

Many underestimate the cold ground in Uppland, especially during spring and autumn when the moisture rises from the many lakes. A good sleeping pad is actually more important for keeping warm than a sleeping bag in many cases.

When it comes to choosing a sleeping bag, down is often the superior choice due to its weight and compressibility. If you are considering a down sleeping bag for your nights along the Upplandsleden Trail, we recommend reading our in-depth guide: Bird Down in Sleeping Bags – The Complete Guide . There we explain the difference between goose down and duck down, as well as what the CUIN value actually means for your comfort in the field.

Practical logistics near Uppsala and Stockholm

The great thing about Uppland is that many stage starts can be reached by public transport (UL and SL).

• Hågadalen-Nåsten: Can be reached by city bus from Uppsala. Perfect for a "micro hike".
• Fiby Urskog: A short but technical hike in a magical environment that requires good shoes with good grip.
• Marvikarna: For those who want to combine hiking with canoeing, there are fantastic opportunities in the rift valleys that characterize the border region with Södermanland.

Summary: Finding the Balance

Hiking in Uppland offers a unique mix of historic farming, deep forest and coastal cliffs. The key to a successful trip lies in preparation and a pragmatic approach to equipment. Choose a hiking backpack that fits well, invest in a reliable hiking tent that can withstand both wind and rain, and don't forget to prioritize your sleep.

Whether you're spending a weekend on Roslagsleden or just taking a day trip on Upplandsleden, the nature of Uppland is ready to welcome you – as long as you pack wisely.

Meta description: Planning to hike in Uppland? Explore the Upplandsleden and Roslagsleden trails with our expert guide. Tips on the right backpack, hiking tent and the best trails near Uppsala and Stockholm.