Vildmarksvägen - Winding roads and Hällingsåfallet

Winding roads along mountains and rivers. Driving Sweden’s Vildmarksvägen to Hällingsåfallet.

The road was winding, passing mountains and driving alongside rivers.

A Rough Road to a Beautiful Place

Driving the Vildmarksvägen from Strömsund was as much part of the experience as the waterfall itself. Rugged cliffs towered on one side while a lively river ran alongside, offering small spots to stop and breathe in the wild beauty. Soon after, the asphalt gave way to gravel track and a feeling of stepping away from the ordinary and deeper into nature.

Reaching the Waterfall

As you get to close Hällingsåfallet, the first parking area you’ll come to is a small gravel lot - simple but inviting, containing a nice fire pit and some simple benches to sit on. If you continue up the hill, the road leads to a larger gravel parking area. It’s more spacious, nicely sheltered by forest, and has clean outdoor restrooms along with a sign sharing some facts about the waterfall.

From here, it’s just a short and easy walk - only a couple hundred meters - until the roar of the waterfall greets you. You approach it head-on, and soon you can feel the cool mist in the air, carried by the force of the falling water.

Exploring the Area

To the right, there are picnic tables with a lovely view - perfect for a snack or just sitting down to take it all in. Follow that path a bit further and you’ll come to a long bridge stretching directly above the waterfall. It’s a thrilling spot to stand and feel the raw energy of the water rushing below your feet. On the other side, the trail continues along the river for those who want to explore more.

If you instead of going right turn left, the canyon opens up into a calm riverside trail. This loop connects the upper and lower parking areas and makes for a relaxed 5km evening walk - great for soaking in the scenery at a slower pace.

Facts about Hällingsåfallet

📍 Location & Canyon: Hällingsåfallet plunges around 43m into Sweden’s longest water-filled canyon - about 800m long and 15-60m wide.
🌱 Unique Nature: The misty canyon supports rare mosses, lichens, fungi, and interesting birdlife thanks to its moist microclimate.
🚶‍♂️ Trail & Amenities: An easy-access path from the car park leads straight to the waterfall. You’ll also find benches, restrooms, and a small shelter.
🛣️ Wilderness Road: Part of the 360 km Vildmarksvägen route that passes through dramatic northern Swedish landscapes.

Good to Know & Tips

🐌 Drive slowly on the gravel sections - potholes and narrow spots require extra care.
🧥 Bring layers. The air near the canyon is cool and damp, even in summer.
🥾 Wear solid shoes - for walking the trails and crossing a few wet spots.
🗓️ June offers a quieter visit with fewer crowds and peaceful surroundings.
🅿️ Both parking areas offer different views and access - try both if you can.
🌉 The bridge above the falls gives a dramatic view, but it can feel intense - take your time crossing.

Read more about Hällingsåfallet here.

Check out the hiking trail here.

Photos

First view of the waterfall.

The canyon where the water continued to flow.

At the bridge leading over the waterfall.

View over the river from the lower parking lot.

Selfie at the bridge over the waterfall.

Vizze stroke a proud pose.

The bridge.

View over the waterfall and the canyon.

Flowers growing by the trail.

Information about Hällingsåfallet.