Kvarntorpshögen
Örebro län
Kvarntorpshögen is an approximately 100-meter-high slag heap located in Kvarntorp, Kumla Municipality, Sweden. Rising to 157 meters above sea level, it is the highest point in the Närke Plain. The heap originated from the oil shale industry that was active in the area during and after World War II. The oil shale was processed to extract oil, leading to the accumulation of hot residues that formed the heap. Despite the closure of the shale oil plant in 1966, parts of the heap still burn underground due to residual hydrocarbons and pyrite. Today, Kvarntorpshögen serves as a unique tourist attraction with a cycling park known for downhill biking, a winter ski slope, and several hiking trails. A staircase with 427 steps leads visitors to the summit, which has become popular for exercise and training. The site also hosts the "Konst på Hög" (Art on the Heap) project, featuring outdoor art installations. There are kiosks with light refreshments during the summer and accessible roads to the top. The area attracts bird watchers and outdoor enthusiasts, though some parts are hazardous due to underground fires causing ground instability.
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Tip: The best time to visit Kvarntorpshögen is during the summer for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the outdoor art installations. In winter, the ski slopes offer downhill skiing opportunities. Visitors are advised to use the 427-step stairway for a rewarding workout and to check for any access restrictions due to hot spots or ground instability. Purchasing tickets or passes for ski activities in advance is recommended. Summer visitors can enjoy kiosk services at the top. Awareness of safety zones is important due to ongoing underground combustion.
Interesting facts
- •Kvarntorpshögen is the highest natural point in the Närke Plain at 157 meters above sea level.
- •Parts of the slag heap still burn underground, with temperatures reaching up to 700 °C in some areas.
- •The site features a 427-step stairway popular for fitness training.
- •The oil shale residue contains uranium, making the heap a potential uranium source before extraction was banned in Sweden in 2018.
- •The area hosts the "Konst på Hög" outdoor art project, integrating culture with industrial heritage.
History
Kvarntorpshögen was formed from the residues of the oil shale industry established in 1940 when Sweden sought alternative oil sources during World War II.
The first oil was produced in 1942, and the shale oil plant reached an annual output of about 100,000 cubic meters.
The heap grew as hot solid residues, still burning at high temperatures, were deposited there.
The plant was sold in 1965 and permanently closed in 1966.
Since then, efforts have been made to extinguish the underground fires, which continue to cause heat and smoke emissions.
The shale used contained uranium, contributing to a low uranium concentration in the heap, but uranium extraction has been forbidden in Sweden since 2018.
In recent decades, the site has transformed from an industrial remnant into a cultural and recreational landmark.
Place Guide
427-step Stairway
A prominent stairway leading up to the summit, widely used by visitors for exercise and accessing panoramic views.
Konst på Hög (Art on the Heap)2000s
An outdoor art project featuring sculptures and installations that blend with the industrial landscape of Kvarntorpshögen.
Downhill Cycling Park
A cycling area on the slag heap that attracts downhill biking enthusiasts, recognized within the cycling community.
Winter Ski Slopes
Two ski runs managed by Kumla Skidförening, offering winter sports opportunities on the heap.
Contact
Phone: 019-58 80 00