Abisko National Park Guide
Abisko National Park: Witness the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun Guide
Abisko National Park, located in Swedish Lapland, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Renowned for its stunning Arctic landscapes, the park offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) during the winter months and bask in the glow of the Midnight Sun during summer. The park's diverse terrain encompasses mountains, forests, alpine meadows, and the iconic Lake Torneträsk, providing a breathtaking backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities. Established in 1909, Abisko National Park was created to preserve the unique natural beauty of the area and provide a space for scientific research. The park's location, far from urban light pollution, makes it one of the best places in the world to observe the Northern Lights. The Aurora Sky Station, situated atop Mount Nuolja, offers guided tours and a comfortable viewing platform for aurora hunters. The park also plays a vital role in protecting the local flora and fauna, including reindeer, arctic foxes, and various bird species. Visitors to Abisko can enjoy a wide range of activities throughout the year. In winter, popular options include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice climbing, and dog sledding. The park is also a starting point for the famous Kungsleden (King's Trail), a long-distance hiking trail that stretches over 400 kilometers through the Swedish mountains. During the summer months, hiking, fishing, and canoeing are popular activities. Don't miss the chance to ride the chairlift up Mount Nuolja for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. While Abisko doesn't have a specific culinary tradition unique only to the park, you'll find restaurants and cafes serving traditional Swedish and Sami cuisine, often featuring local ingredients like reindeer meat and cloudberries.
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Abisko National Park is by train. The park has its own train station, Abisko Turiststation, which is served by the Swedish national railway, SJ. You can also reach Abisko by bus from Kiruna. Bus 91 will take you to Abisko Turiststation. If you are driving, the park is located along the E10 highway.