Bydalsfjällen is the mountain area closest to Östersund — a personal and family-friendly destination with plenty of space to be, discover, and touch down in nature. Here, gems like Bydalen, Hovde, Höglekardalen, Falkfångarfjället, and Gräftåvallen await, all nestled in the beautiful Jämtland mountain landscape.
Summer in the Bydalsfjällen mountains
Summer in Bydalsfjällen offers tranquility, fresh mountain air, and expansive views. It is easy to get out here — you quickly reach the alpine tundra and experience magnificent nature at your own pace. One of the area’s most unique features is Dromskåran — a mighty ravine formed during the Ice Age that offers a hiking experience beyond the ordinary. Another experience is hiking to the top of mount Västfjället or a multi-day-hike further into the mountains between the huts of the Swedish Tourist Association (STF). Here, you are in the middle of a living reindeer husbandry area, where nature’s calm and presence are always close by.
For those who want to explore more, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and excursions in a mountain environment — or just stopping to enjoy the silence. There are cabins or apartments to rent and a shop for groceries. There are also restaurants open in summer for sampling local delights.
Go with a guide in the mountains for a full experience and insight into local history and traditions. Enjoy an outdoor Swedish fika or an outdoor meal.
See and do in Bydalsfjällen:
- Mountain hiking for all levels.
- Quick access to the alpine tundra and magnificent views.
- Unique nature experiences like Dromskåran.
- Fishing in a mountain environment, including in Dammån.
- Swimming spots and peaceful excursion destinations.
- Family-friendly activities in nature.
- A living reindeer husbandry area.
- Peace, quiet, and fresh mountain air.
Day trips around Bydalsfjällen:
Storsjöbygden northern tour including Arvemuseet and SS Östersund, Vaetabacken in Mattmar, Backgården and Glösa rock carvings in Alsen, lunch at Wångens Wärdshus, Mus-Olles Museum, Jamtli and shopping in Östersund, beautiful views from the island Frösön, hiking on the island Andersön (nature reserve), ferry to Norderön and onwards towards Håkansta, and finally back to Bydalsfjällen.
Storsjöbygden southern tour including wood crafts at Wikners in Persåsen, cave visits, hiking and views at Hoverberget, ice cream at Kossan in Berg, Hackås old church, coffee and swimming at Hara steamboat dock, visit the moose at Moosegarden, and take the ferry via Norderön and Håkansta back to Bydalsfjällen.
How to get to Bydalsfjällen:
Car: 1,5 hours by car from Östersund.
Bus: Daily bus connections from Östersund are available.
Train: Train to Östersund, then bus or rental car.
Flight: Flight to Åre Östersund Airport, then bus from Östersund or rental car.