The right of public access
The Swedish “right of public access” is fantastic! Thanks to it, you can move freely in nature on foot, by bike and canoe. You can pick berries and mushrooms from the “pantry of the forest”, and you can pitch a tent almost anywhere you want, but it entails not only rights, but also obligations. For example, you have to consider the nature and the environment, wildlife, landowners and other visitors.
In short, the main rule is: “do not disturb, do not destroy” Find out which rights and obligations that are included in the right of public access, and read more about it on the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s website.
Lighting fires
Cooking and gathering around the campfire adds a golden edge to the entire hiking experience, and is a popular activity. Just keep in mind that a great responsibility comes with the cozy moment around the fire!
It is your own responsibility to find out if burning is allowed in the location you are in, and to ensure that the fire does not spread or harm animals, plants and sensitive areas. In dry weather conditions, the county administrative board or the municipality can issue a fire ban, in which case all open fires are prohibited, including fires in prepared fireplaces. Information about fire risks and fire bans can be found via the links below, or you can call the SOS telephone response – Rules for outdoor fires in Värmland: +46 54-15 50 15.
Links to useful information:
If you see a red flag with a yellow cross, it means that burning is prohibited. It is raised at certain strategic locations.
At MSB (Swedish authority for public preparedness), you can also download an app to always stay up-to-date on the current fire risk. Always remember that you have your own responsibility to prevent fires during your stay in nature
Motor traffic in the nature
ff-road driving with a quad bike or other vehicle often damage both soil and plants and disturbs aOnimals and people. Keep in mind that it is forbidden to drive a motorized vehicle off-road on bare ground. Motor-driven vehicles are all types of vehicles that are powered by an engine, for example cars, motorcycles, four-wheelers, mopeds, snowmobiles, tractors and other motorized equipment. This also applies if these vehicles are powered by electricity. (source: Naturvårdsverket / Swedish Environmental Protection Agency)
Sustainability and hiking
In order for us all to be able to enjoy wonderful hiking experiences now and in the future, we need to cherish our beautiful nature. We have a great responsibility to help each other to take care of the environment, the animals and the outdoor life. It is therefore important to do what we can to leave as few traces as possible behind us, and it is the small things that make a difference – like taking the garbage home again!
The Swedish Tourist Association (STF) has some tips on how to hike more sustainably. Hiking sustainably means showing consideration for nature and the people you meet during your hike.
Packing and equipment
Good planning and well-thought-out packing will make your hike to a more enjoyable experience. Below you will find a link to the Swedish Tourist Association. They provide tips and advice on packing and equipment for short and long trips.