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Ristafallet
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Landmark
Ristafallet is one of Sweden's most powerful and visually striking waterfalls, situated on the Indalsälven river in the province of Jämtland. The waterfall spans approximately 50 meters in width and drops 14 meters in two distinct stages, split by a forested rocky island positioned in the center of the flow. The surrounding environment benefits from a damp microclimate that supports the growth of rare lichens and mosses on the constantly misted rocks. Ristafallet achieved international fame as a primary filming location for the 1984 movie "Ronja the Robber's Daughter," where it portrayed the fictional Glupafall. Visitors can access the site via well-maintained trails that provide spectacular vantage points both above and below the falls. During the winter months, the waterfall often freezes into intricate ice formations, making the area a popular destination for winter hikers and ice climbers.
- Location: Sweden
- Top sights: Hållandsgårdens stavkyrka · Ristafallet · S:t Olavs källa
- Nearby: Åre (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -8 | -8 | -5 | 1 | 6 | 11 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 2 | -4 | -7 |
| Rain mm | 52 | 38 | 45 | 43 | 74 | 95 | 121 | 112 | 75 | 66 | 54 | 56 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Ristafallet waterfall is a natural landmark and can be visited from the outside at any time free of charge. Visitors can view the two parallel cascades from lookout platforms. There are no indoor spaces, but the natural surroundings are impressive.
Typical hours
The area is open year-round, 24 hours a day, as it is a natural site. Light is especially beautiful in the early morning and late afternoon for photography. In winter, some paths may be icy - check conditions.
Photography
Photography is allowed anytime and anywhere outdoors without restrictions. For impressive shots of the rushing water, use a polarizing filter or longer exposure time. Tripods are welcome in nature - just set them up safely.
Time needed
A visit to the waterfall typically takes between 30 minutes and one hour, including a walk to the viewpoints. If you also explore the surrounding hiking trails, allow up to two hours.
Combine with
Ristafallet is located near Åre, a popular ski and hiking area. Combine the waterfall visit with exploring the village of Åre or a hike in Skuleskogen National Park. The Indalsälven gorge is also worth seeing.
Getting there
The waterfall is located along the road between Åre and Östersund, with a small parking area right by the road. Best reached by car or bicycle. A public bus serves the nearby Ristafallet stop, but the walk takes about 10 minutes.
Insider tip
Visit the waterfall after rainfall when the water flow is especially strong. Bring waterproof footwear as platforms can be slippery. A picnic on the rocks beside the waterfall is an unforgettable experience.
Geography
Facts
- The waterfall is 50 meters wide and has a height of 14 meters.
- The average water flow ranges from 100 to 400 cubic meters per second.
- A forested island divides the river into two parts at the brink of the falls.
- Ristafallet was used as a setting for the Swedish film Ronja the Robber's Daughter.
- The rock formation in the area is primarily composed of Seve schist.
- The surroundings are home to rare lichen species, including lungwort lichen.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Ristafallet (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the waterfall famous from movies?
Yes, it served as a filming location for the movie 'Ronja the Robber's Daughter'.
How do you get to the waterfall?
It is located right off the E14 road, about 20 km east of Åre.
Is there a campsite nearby?
Yes, there is a campsite located right next to the waterfall.
Can you go behind the waterfall?
There is a cave that is accessible in winter when the waterfall is frozen.
Is there an entrance fee?
Access to the waterfall is free, though parking at the campsite may have a fee.
Ristafallet: where is it located?
Ristafallet is located in Sweden.
Ristafallet: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hållandsgårdens stavkyrka, Ristafallet, S:t Olavs källa.
Ristafallet: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Ristafallet: why is it worth visiting?
Ristafallet is one of Sweden's most powerful and visually striking waterfalls, situated on the Indalsälven river in the province of Jämtland.
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