Sonfjallet National Park

Sonfjallet stands alone rather than in a range, rising to about 1,278 metres out of the forest in Harjedalen, and it was one of the nine parks declared in 1909 - partly to protect the bears, which were then close to extinction in Sweden. The population recovered and the district now has one of the higher bear densities in the country, though seeing one is still unlikely and the animals avoid people. The mountain has a summit trail and a longer circuit round the massif, with boulder fields, mountain birch on the lower slopes and open fell above. Old summer farm huts stand at the edges of the park.

History

The park was established in 1909, which makes it one of Europe's oldest, and after an extension in 1989 it covers 103 square kilometres. The meaning of the name is uncertain, and from 1919 to 2010 it was officially spelled Sånfjället before the old form was restored (Wikipedia, Sonfjället National Park).

What you'll find

• A mountain standing alone - about 1,278 metres out of forest.
• A dense bear population - protected here since 1909.
• Boulder fields and open fell - above the birch line.
• Old summer farm huts - at the park edges.

When to go

July to September. A full day.

Things to know

Bears are present but almost never seen - do not come expecting them. Trails are rocky and exposed above the treeline. Weather turns quickly. Nothing is provided inside the boundary.

Nearby

Hede is north; Sveg is south-east.

Key facts