Total length: 8
kmExperience a hiking trail where history and nature meet. 7-torpsleden, a quality-assured Hiking Värmland trail, is 7.9 km long and passes seven historic homesteads in Finnskogen. The trail follows old paths from the time of the Forest Finnish settlers and offers a fascinating insight into their way of life.
The trail follows ancient routes once walked by Finnish settlers as early as the 16th and 17th centuries. Along the way, you’ll pass the homesteads of Lomstorp, Svartbäcken, Österby, Lebiko, Kissalamp, Vallis, and Ritamäki. These settlements reflect the Forest Finns’ traditional lifestyle, closely tied to slash-and-burn agriculture.
The hike takes you through a mix of dense coniferous forest, bright deciduous woods, and open meadows surrounding the old farms. Ritamäki is the best-preserved Forest Finnish homestead in all of Finnskogen, featuring a full set of buildings with traditional interiors. During summer, the Lekvattnet Local Heritage Society operates a small café here.
The trail is relatively easy to walk but includes some sections with hilly terrain. It suits hikers with basic fitness and an interest in both history and nature.
Trail Status
Current status: Open year-round, but may be wet during rainy periods. No winter maintenance.
Route and entrances: The trail can be accessed from two directions – at Lake Lomsen on the Swedish side or at the homestead Lebiko on the Norwegian side.
Trail markings: Orange markings and signs guide the way.
Special regulations: Please respect the nature reserve regulations and the Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten). Read more about the Right of Public Access at Naturvårdsverket.
Services
Drinking water and groceries: No drinking water is available along the trail. The nearest grocery store is in Torsby.
Toilets: A basic dry toilet is available at Ritamäki during the summer season.
Parking: Parking is available at Lake Lomsen on the Swedish side and at the homestead Lebiko on the Norwegian side.
Public transport: The nearest bus stop is in Lekvattnet. Check the current timetable via Värmlandstrafik.
Guided tours: Available upon request, including with Ulrika Jäger. Organised tours in the area are also arranged by Torsby Finnskogscentrum.
Waste management: No waste collection along the trail – please carry your trash home.
About Hiking Värmland
You can read more about Hiking Värmland's quality-assured trails here. Through the Naturkartan app (available for Android and Iphone), you can download the Hiking Värmland guide and save the maps for offline use.
