Dellen Lakes
Gävleborgs län
Dellen Lakes, located in the province of Hälsingland, Sweden, comprise two interconnected lakes: Northern Dellen and Southern Dellen. These lakes are renowned among fly-fishermen for their abundant brown trout population. The lakes cover a combined area of approximately 130 square kilometers, making them one of the larger lake systems in Sweden. Their distinctively rounded shape is the remnant of an impact crater formed by a meteorite collision around 89 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period. This event created a crater about 19 kilometers in diameter and gave rise to the unique local rock called dellenite, which is now the provincial rock. The two lakes are separated only by a short channel, sparking debate over whether they should be considered one or two lakes. The area also features a model of Pluto and Charon from the Sweden Solar System near Southern Dellen, with pillars made from dellenite. Historically, the lakes have been connected by waterways used for transporting iron ore and finished iron products, reflecting the region's industrial past. Today, the lakes not only attract anglers but also those interested in geology and natural history, offering a blend of recreational and scientific appeal.
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Tip: The best time to visit Dellen Lakes is during late spring through early autumn when fishing conditions are optimal and the natural scenery is at its peak. Visitors interested in fishing should check local regulations and consider obtaining fishing permits in advance. Exploring the area around Southern Dellen to see the Sweden Solar System installation is recommended. While visiting, take advantage of local guides or maps detailing hiking trails and fishing spots. Booking accommodations early during peak seasons is advisable due to the area's popularity among anglers and nature enthusiasts.
Interesting facts
- •The Dellen Lakes were formed by a meteorite impact approximately 89 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period.
- •The impact crater measures about 19 kilometers in diameter, making it a significant geological feature in Sweden.
- •The local rock, dellenite, is unique to the area and was formed as a result of the impact event.
- •Asteroid 7704 Dellen was named in honor of the Dellen Lakes.
- •A model of Pluto and its moon Charon from the Sweden Solar System is installed near Southern Dellen, with pillars made from dellenite.
History
The Dellen Lakes were formed approximately 89 million years ago by a meteorite impact that created a roughly 19-kilometer-wide crater.
In the 19th century, a dam was constructed in the channel connecting the two lakes, creating a water level difference used to power a sawmill, a flax processing facility, and a mill.
Later, the dam was removed, and efforts were made to develop a waterway connecting the lakes to the sea for transporting iron ore and iron products, although this project was eventually halted by competing railway construction.
The unique impact origin of the lakes has influenced local geology and industry, leading to the identification of the rock dellenite and the naming of asteroid 7704 Dellen after the site.
Place Guide
Northern Dellen
The larger of the two lakes, covering about 82 square kilometers, known for its clear waters and rich brown trout population. It is connected to Southern Dellen by a short channel and features several fishing spots and scenic views.
Southern Dellen
Covering around 52 square kilometers, Southern Dellen is notable for the Sweden Solar System installation nearby, representing Pluto and Charon. The pillars of this model are made from local dellenite rock. It also serves as a popular area for fishing and boating.
Sweden Solar System Installation
A scale model of Pluto and its moon Charon located near Southern Dellen, part of the world's largest scale model of the solar system. The installation's pillars are constructed from dellenite, linking the model to the local geology.
