Storforsen

Storforsen is a colossal set of rapids on the Pite river in northern Sweden, dropping 82 metres along some five kilometres of thundering whitewater, steepest at the main falls, one of the largest untamed rapids in Europe. Boardwalks and a nature reserve let visitors walk out over and beside the roaring water and its wildly polished rocks.

Background

The rapids lie about 38 km northwest of Älvsbyn in Norrbottens län. Their flow places them among the most voluminous rapids in Europe. Flow is usually highest at midsummer, at 870 m3/s, and the flood year of 1995 saw 1200 cubic metres pass down every second. Measurements give a run of 686 metres, a width of 366 metres and an average width of 76 metres. Logs were once floated down the rapids, and the land around them is now a nature park that draws 150,000 people each year. Fences guard the rocks beside the water, and ramps give the public access to the views.

Source: Wikipedia, "Storforsen"

Highlights

• The rapids - the vast thundering whitewater dropping across the river.
• The boardwalks - the walkways out over and beside the torrent.
• The Dead Falls - the old dry channel of smooth potholed rock beside the rapids.
• The forest reserve - the pine wood and river landscape around.

When to go

Late spring and early summer for the highest, most thunderous flow from snowmelt; the rapids run all summer. Any clear day suits the walk.

Practical notes

It is a powerful natural spectacle rather than a graceful waterfall, so come for raw force and scale. It is far north, a real drive from most places. The rocks are slippery and the water lethal, so keep to the boardwalks.

Nearby

Alvsbyn and the Swedish Lapland coast are the region; the Lulea archipelago lies to the east.

Key facts