Abisko National Park
Norrbottens län
Abisko National Park, established in 1909, is one of Sweden's oldest national parks located in the Lapland region near the village of Abisko, south of Lake Torneträsk. Covering approximately 7,700 hectares, the park features a diverse landscape including low mountain birch forests, alpine tundra, and a deep canyon carved by the Abiskojåkka river. Its northern location above the Arctic Circle provides visitors with extraordinary natural phenomena such as the midnight sun during summer and the northern lights in winter. The park's dry climate, caused by a rain shadow effect from surrounding mountains, results in clearer skies and less precipitation than other parts of the Scandinavian mountains. Abisko is renowned for its rich flora, including mountain birch forests and unique Arctic plants, as well as diverse birdlife and mammals like reindeer, moose, and Arctic fox. The park also includes notable features such as the Abiskojaure lake, the delta of Abiskojåkka which is a protected bird area, and mountain peaks like Nuolja and Slåttatjåkka. Abisko has become a popular destination for scientific research and tourism, especially for visitors seeking to experience Lapland's natural beauty and the aurora borealis.
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Tip: The best time to visit Abisko National Park for northern lights viewing is during the dark winter months from late September to early April. Summer months offer the midnight sun and excellent hiking opportunities. It is advisable to book accommodations and guided tours in advance during peak seasons. Visitors should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and bring appropriate clothing. Entry to the park is free, but some guided activities or accommodations may require reservations. Respect seasonal restrictions, such as the bird protection area at Abiskojåkkas delta during early summer.
Interesting facts
- •Abisko is one of the sunniest places in Sweden due to a rain shadow effect caused by mountains to the west, resulting in very low annual precipitation (around 300 mm).
- •The park is located about 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, enabling the phenomenon of midnight sun lasting over eight weeks in summer.
- •Abisko is famous for its excellent northern lights visibility thanks to minimal light pollution and clear skies during winter.
- •The name 'Abisko' derives from the Northern Sami word 'Ábeskovvu,' meaning 'forest by the large water,' referring to its proximity to Lake Torneträsk.
- •The park contains a protected bird delta area at Abiskojåkka, which is closed to visitors during early summer to protect nesting birds.
History
Abisko National Park was established in 1909 as one of Sweden's first national parks, aimed at preserving high northern mountain nature and serving as a site for scientific research.
The idea to protect the area originated from the Swedish state geologist Fredrik Svenonius and was part of Sweden's early efforts in nature conservation.
Early tourism development began with the Swedish Tourist Association establishing a station near the Malmbanan railway in 1902.
Over the decades, the park has remained a key site for environmental protection and research in Lapland, balancing conservation with tourism.
Place Guide
Abiskojaure Lake
A scenic lake nestled in the southern valley of the park, offering hiking trails and tranquil views of surrounding mountains.
Abiskojåkka River Canyon
A dramatic 20-meter deep canyon carved by the Abiskojåkka river with steep walls, showcasing the park's geological history and natural beauty.
Nuolja Mountain
One of the prominent peaks in the park, accessible by a chairlift, offering panoramic views and hiking paths leading into alpine terrain.
Slåttatjåkka Mountain
A mountain peak within the park that contributes to the rugged fjäll landscape and biodiversity of alpine flora and fauna.
Contact
Phone: 010-225 50 00
