Fjälltrakterna

Fjälltrakterna is a Swedish term for the high mountain areas that dominate the northern part of the country, where the landscape rises above the treeline and features alpine tundra, bare rock and extensive lake systems. The region spans parts of Norrbotten, Västerbotten and Jämtland counties and is associated with the larger Lapland and Scandinavian fjäll landscape. The terrain consists of broad plateaus, deep valleys, rivers, bogs and, in places, glaciers.

The climate is subarctic, with long winters and substantial snow, while summers are short and cool. Weather can be variable and severe, shaping both the environment and human activity. Flora is sparse above the treeline, with hardy alpine species; at lower elevations boreal forests are more common. Fauna includes reindeer herds managed by Sámi communities, as well as wolverines, lynx and golden eagles.

Human activity in fjälltrakterna has long combined traditional livelihoods with contemporary recreation. Sámi reindeer herding remains a central cultural and economic element in parts of the region. The area hosts a network of mountain huts operated by the Swedish Tourist Association (STF) and is traversed by several renowned trekking routes, notably the Kungsleden. Much of the landscape is protected, with several areas incorporated into national parks or the Laponia World Heritage Site, including Sarek, Padjelanta, Stora Sjöfallet and Muddus. These protections aim to preserve the natural environment while allowing traditional livelihoods and research.

Access is via northern towns and transport networks that connect to Kiruna, Jokkmokk and Storuman. The fjälltrakterna remain a focal point for hiking, winter sports, wildlife observation and Sámi culture.