Östfjällsrundan – easy hike in Sälen

An easy and scenic 9 km circular hike from Högfjällshotellet. The trail follows sections of Södra Kungsleden over paved paths, gravel and boardwalks.

Hike Östfjällsrundan from Högfjället

Östfjällsrundan begins on the opposite side of road 66 from Högfjällshotellet. Walk through the gateway to Södra Kungsleden and follow the trail up the southern side of Östfjället.

The 9 km circular route is graded green and easy. It suits anyone looking for a varied hike in Sälen with open mountain views, several natural rest stops and varied surfaces.

Södra Kungsleden and Sälen Botanical Garden

The first section follows a paved stretch with a gentle incline. Along the way, you pass Sälen Botanical Garden and several benches where you can stop for a break and enjoy the views.

After approximately 2.5 km, you reach the shelter at Köarskärsfjället. From here, the trail continues north over gravel towards Östfjällsstugan.

Paved section for pushchairs and wheelchairs

The first paved section is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Once the paved section ends, the trail continues over gravel and boardwalks. This accessibility therefore applies only to the first section, not the entire circular route.

Östfjällsstugan and Östfjällstjärnarna

Östfjällsstugan is beautifully situated beside one of the small lakes at Östfjällstjärnarna and is a natural place to stop for a break. The hut is intended for rest and not for overnight stays. There is an outdoor toilet but no running water, so bring enough to drink for the entire hike.

Surface and route back

From Östfjällsstugan, the trail continues west, mainly over boardwalks. After approximately 1 km, you reach a trail junction where you turn south towards Gruven and Högfjället.

When you reach road 66, follow the walking and biking path beside the road for the final kilometre back to Högfjällshotellet. The trail is marked with red crosses.

The surface may be wet or slippery after rain. Wear shoes with good grip and choose clothing and equipment suited to the mountain weather.

Starting point and practical information

The hike begins and ends at Högfjällshotellet and takes approximately 2–3 hours. Parking is available in the area around Högfjällshotellet.

There is a shelter and outdoor toilet at Köarskärsfjället, as well as a rest hut and outdoor toilet at Östfjällsstugan.

Longer hike from Lindvallen with lift access

For a longer hike to Östfjällsstugan, you can start at Experiumtorget in Lindvallen. When Gustav Express is open, take the lift up the mountain and follow the hiking trail via Apotekarstugan down towards Gammelgården.

From there, continue along Södra Kungsleden to Östfjällsstugan, then follow the same route back to the top of Lindvallen. This option is approximately 21 km out and back and is graded red and challenging.

Allow a full day in the mountains and check the current opening hours in Sälen before setting out, so that you return before the lift closes.