Plizio Visual Lab
Sylfjällen
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Sylfjällen massif is a spectacular high-mountain area in the Jämtland province, located directly on the border with Norway. The highest peak of the massif is Storsylen at 1,762 meters, with its summit actually situated on Norwegian soil. The mountains are characterized by alpine formations, sharp ridges, and deep glacial cirques, giving them an almost high-alpine appearance. Geologically, the Sylfjällen massif consists of metamorphic rocks from the Caledonides, dramatically shaped by glacial erosion. The area is a hub for Swedish mountain tourism and home to the well-known Sylarna mountain hut, which serves as a starting point for numerous hikes and summit ascents. Particularly famous is the Syltraversen, a challenging ridge walk for experienced mountaineers. Vegetation is restricted to the alpine level and consists mainly of mosses, lichens, and small arctic plants that defy the extreme weather conditions.
- Location: Sweden
- Nearby: Storlien (26 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 | -6 | -2 | 3 | 9 | 12 | 11 | 6 | 0 | -5 | -7 |
| Rain mm | 121 | 102 | 112 | 88 | 108 | 154 | 161 | 153 | 140 | 119 | 115 | 128 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access is typically via the Storulvån mountain station, which can be reached by car or seasonal bus services. From there, a multi-hour hike through the mountains leads toward the main Sylarna massif.
Best season
The main hiking season lasts from late June to September, after most of the winter snow has melted. In winter, the area is a popular destination for ski touring, though it requires alpine experience.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is high alpine, featuring rocky paths, boulder fields, and steep summit climbs. Hikers should be physically fit and comfortable moving over uneven, often loose stony ground in mountain environments.
What to bring
Full mountain gear, including sturdy waterproof hiking boots and warm layers, is mandatory for safety. A compass and up-to-date map are essential for navigating through the expansive mountain wilderness.
Parking
Parking spaces are available at the Storulvån mountain station, often for a fee for multi-day visitors. During peak season, finding a spot can be difficult if you arrive late in the morning or midday.
Safety
Weather changes can be extremely rapid and severe in high mountains, even during the peak of summer. Stay on marked trails during low visibility and never underestimate the potential for sudden cold.
Time needed
The hike to the massif and back is very long for a single day and is usually planned as a multi-day trip. Expect at least six to eight hours of active walking time for each stage of the journey.
Geography
Facts
- Storsylen is the highest peak in the massif at 1,762 meters.
- The international border with Norway runs through the mountains.
- The Sylarna mountain station is a major hub for alpine trekking.
- The massif features several small glaciers on its slopes.
- The geology is dominated by schists and amphibolites.
- Syltraversen is one of the most famous ridge climbs in Sweden.
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 Sylfjällen (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is the Sylfjällen massif?
The highest point, Storsola, is at 1,728 meters on the border with Norway.
Is a hike to the summit difficult?
Yes, it is a demanding high-mountain hike that requires good physical condition and equipment.
Is there a mountain hut there?
The Sylarna mountain station is an important base for hikers in this area.
When is there snow?
Snow patches can remain until midsummer; the winter season is from February to May.
Is a mountain guide needed?
Experienced hikers can do the trails alone, but for glacier tours, a guide is advisable.
Sylfjällen: where is it located?
Sylfjällen is located in Sweden.
Sylfjällen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Sylfjällen: why is it worth visiting?
The Sylfjällen massif is a spectacular high-mountain area in the Jämtland province, located directly on the border with Norway.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Sweden →
Nearby cities
Gävle
Gävle is the oldest city in Norrland and a key commercial center on the Baltic Sea.
Eskilstuna
Eskilstuna has a long tradition in metalworking and the steel industry.
Östersund
Östersund is located on the shores of Lake Storsjön, Sweden's fifth-largest lake.
Borlänge
Borlänge is a major industrial and commercial center in the Dalarna province.
Falun
Falun is world-famous for its historic copper mine, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Skellefteå
Skellefteå is a historic mining center in northern Sweden.
Örnsköldsvik
Discover Örnsköldsvik, the heart of the High Coast, a UNESCO site.
Karlskoga
Karlskoga is situated on the lake Möckeln in the province of Värmland.
Märsta
Märsta is a modern town in Sweden, strategically located between Uppsala and Stockholm and serving as the seat of Sigtuna Municipality, c…
Härnösand
Härnösand is often called the 'Gateway to the High Coast' and is situated on both an island and a peninsula.
Gånsvikshamn
Gånsvikshamn is a scenic Swedish coastal location offering stunning views of the Bothnian Sea and beautiful natural surroundings.
Enköping
Enköping is often called the 'City of Parks' and is conveniently located on Lake Mälaren.
Kristinehamn
Kristinehamn is located on the northern shore of Lake Vänern and is famous for its giant Picasso sculpture.
Köping
Köping is an industrial town located at the western end of Lake Mälaren.
Mariestad
Mariestad is located on the eastern shore of Lake Vänern and is known for its magnificent cathedral and its role as the administrative ce…
