Western trail to Åreskutan summit – red summit hike in Åre

A red and challenging 7.6 km hike from Åre torg to Åreskutan summit. The trail passes Fjällgården and the historic Stjärnvägen, with technical sections higher up on the mountain.

Hike the Western trail to Åreskutan summit

The Western trail to Åreskutan summit, known in Swedish as Västra leden, is a classic summit hike from Åre torg up to the summit of Åreskutan. The trail is approximately 7.6 km long, graded red and suits those looking for a longer and more demanding hike in Åre.

The route passes Fjällgården and continues along the historic Stjärnvägen. Higher up on the mountain, the trail becomes more technical, with boulders and rock sections that require good balance, secure footing and shoes with good grip.

From Åre torg via Fjällgården

The hike starts at Åre torg and heads up towards Fjällgården. From there, the trail continues along Stjärnvägen, a historic trail leading up through the mountain terrain.

As you hike, the views over Åredalen and the surrounding mountains gradually open up. Adjust your pace according to the terrain, weather and your own energy levels.

Stjärnvägen and technical sections

The upper part of the Western trail includes technical sections over boulders and rock. Here, the hike can take longer than the distance suggests, especially in wet conditions or poor visibility.

From Fjällgården, there is also a steeper alternative via trail 214b up towards Mörvikshummeln. Choose your route based on the weather, how you feel on the day and your own mountain experience.

Weather, season and trail markings

The Western trail is best from midsummer to the beginning of October. The section up to Hummeln is summer signposted from 5 June, while the rest of the trail up to the summit is signposted around midsummer.

If you hike the trail earlier in the season, be aware that you may need to navigate on your own. Trail conditions can vary from day to day depending on weather and ground conditions.

Please note that the trail may be affected by snow cover early and late in the season. During spring and early summer, the ground may also be particularly sensitive, so always check the current trail status before setting out.

Lift, return and digital guide

The Western trail can be hiked uphill from Åre torg or downhill from the summit area. If you want to hike the trail downhill, Kabinbanan can be an option for transport up when it is open.

For a walk down towards Åre village, a digital guide can be a good option. The guide works on mobile and gives you stories about the mountain’s history and nature along the trail.

Remember that hiking downhill can also be demanding on knees, ankles and balance, especially on rocky or wet terrain.

Always check current lift opening hours before setting out and plan with enough margin before the last departure.

Starting point and practical information

The hike starts at Åre torg and ends at Åreskutan summit. It is approximately 7.6 km long and has around 885 metres of elevation gain.

Allow approximately 4 hours to the summit, and plan more time if you are hiking back down. If you are hiking both up and down, allow a full day on the mountain.

Bring water, a packed lunch, extra clothing and equipment suitable for rapidly changing mountain weather.