Climate smart hiking - take the train directly to the trail

Travelling by train is becoming increasingly popular, and more Swedes all the time choose trains ahead of planes and cars, according to an SJ (Swedish Railway) Kantar Sifo analysis. By taking the train instead of driving you’re helping the environment. Check your trip carbon footprint here.

Top tip! Plan your train journey to the following hiking trails on Västtrafik’s "Travel Planner" or on SJ.

Gotaleden

The Gotaleden is a trail close to the city, divided into nine stages over a total of 71 kilometres. Starting in Gothenburg it winds through forests, undulating countryside, by steep cliffs, beautiful lakes, historic industrial areas and immaculate castle gardens. Proximity to train stations along the different stages makes it easy to adapt the walk as you want. There are plenty of food and accommodation alternatives along the way.

Train stops: Gothenburg – Alingsås, with 7 stations in between.

The Pilgrim Path Falköping-Varnhem

The 44 kilometre long Pilgrim Path goes from Falköping in the south to Varnhem in the north. In between you’ll pass no less than two medieval abbey ruins, one of Europe’s most important bird areas (Lake Hornborga) and beautiful, undulating cultural landscapes.  The Pilgrim Path passes right outside the Central station in Falköping and leads you on towards Mösseberg plateau mountain.

Train stop: Falköping 

The Biosphere Trail

The Biosphere Trail is a hiking trail hugging Lake Vänern’s southern shore, between Mariestad and Läckö Castle. The trail takes you through beautiful, varied landscapes with viewpoints, islands, charming town centres, historic spots, cafes and magical forests.

The 140 km long Biosphere Trail goes through several villages and towns, but most of it is through lovely countryside. Whether you choose to do a multi-day hike or shorter day walks there are plenty of exciting places to discover and sights to tick off your list.

Train stops: Mariestad, Lugnås, Forshem, Hällekis, Råbäck, Trolmen, Källby, Filsbäck, Lidköping

Hike along the Göta Canal

Hiking along the towpaths by the Göta Canal is a peaceful experience, where you get to see the changing landscapes, canal life and picturesque little villages replacing each other at a pleasant tempo, up close. Make the experience even better by treating yourself to good food and a comfortable bed at the end of every stage. Take the train to Töreboda and join the path at the Töreboda – Tåtorp stage, a 16 kilometre long hike. 

Train stop: Töreboda 

Bohusleden

The Bohusleden is a classic long distance path of 370 kilometres, stretching from Strömstad in the north to Lindome in the south.

If you want to enjoy the view over the Kosterhavet sea and the tang of seaweed and salt then head to Strömstad and join stage 27 of the Bohusleden (Strömstad-Högstad). A 15 kilometre hike that takes you through varied landscapes, with winding forest paths and lovely views of boats and islands.  

Train stop: Strömstad 

If you want to experience one of Gothenburg’s largest natural areas we recommend Stage 6 of the Bohusleden. A 16 kilometre long stretch from Angered church to Fontin in Kungälv. The hike goes through the beautiful Vättlefjäll nature reserve and finishes in front of the Bohus Fortress in Kungälv. By train you can join the path from Bohus station.

Train stop: Bohus station 

The following stages on the Bohusleden are also accessible by train: Stage 5 (Jonsered), Stage 13 (Uddevalla), Stage 15 and Stage 16 (Munkedal)

The Pilgrim Path North Dalsland

The Pilgrim Path in north Dalsland is an 80 kilometre hiking trail for the true nature lover, possessing some quite incredible views over the wilderness, in terrain similar to that on eastern Sweden’s dramatic High Coast. Along the 81 km long hike there’s plenty to experience, not least in the form of fascinating landscapes with different types of forest and many small lakes. Campsites with campfires, shelters to spend the night in, hotels and hostels along the trail all make it suitable for both day trips or multi day hikes. By train join the path in Mellerud or Åmål. 

Train stops: Mellerud and Åmål

The Sjuhärad Trail

The Sjuhärad Trail is a 140 kilometre path through varying landscapes and beautiful natural scenery, with many places worth a stop. Walk along different surfaces through forest, agricultural land and in towns. Take the train to Hindås or Borås to reach stages 3 to 7 which are perfect for a day’s walk.

Train stops: Hindås and Borås

The Kuststigen Coastal Path

The Kuststigen is a trail with an incredible variety of scenery to explore. Skirting the rocky coastline with a stunningly beautiful archipelago, quaint fishing villages and historic remains, the Kuststigen stretches from Gothenburg in the south, up the west coast and all the way to Oslo in the north.

Train stops: Tanum station, Strömstad, Uddevalla, Ljungskile

The Pilgrim Path Göta Älv

The Pilgrim Path Göta älv is one of Sweden’s most fascinating hiking trails. It’s packed with historical landmarks, amongst river valley scenery offering iconic nature experiences. The whole trail is 130 km long and stretches from the centre of Gothenburg to Vänersborg.

Train stops: Gamlestan, Jonsered, Bohus (2 km), Lödöse Södra, Trollhättan, Vänersborg

MORE ABOUT HIKING IN WEST SWEDEN