Vemdalsskalet Plateau

Vemdalsskalet

A mountain plateau in Härjedalen offering expansive hiking with panoramic views across the landscape and unique alpine vegetation. The high moorland provides accessible wilderness experiences with marked trails and mountain cabins.

Things to do

• Hike to Vemdalsskalet Summit — Trek across the high moorland plateau to experience panoramic views of Härjedalen's valleys and distant mountain ranges from the plateau's highest points.
• Alpine Vegetation Walk — Follow marked trails through unique subalpine and alpine plant communities including dwarf birch, heathland, and rare mountain flora adapted to harsh conditions.
• Stay at Mountain Cabin — Overnight at one of the traditional Swedish mountain cabins (fjällstugor) dotted across the plateau for an immersive wilderness experience.
• Wild Blueberry Foraging — Gather fresh blueberries and lingonberries along the moorland during summer and early autumn, a traditional Scandinavian activity.
• Ljungdalen Valley Descent — Hike down from the plateau into the scenic Ljungdalen valley with its forests and streams, offering contrast to the high moorland landscape.
• Bird Watching on the Moors — Spot mountain birds including golden eagles, ptarmigan, and dotterels across the open plateau landscape where visibility is excellent.
• Photography of Panoramic Views — Capture sweeping vistas across multiple valleys and distant peaks, particularly at sunrise or sunset when light transforms the moorland landscape.

Food to try

• Fresh Mountain Trout — Catch or order locally-sourced trout from the clear mountain streams and cook it simply over a cabin fire or at local accommodations.
• Härjedalen Cheese — Sample traditional Swedish cheese produced in the surrounding Härjedalen region, often available at mountain cabins and nearby farms.
• Cloudberry Jam and Cream — Enjoy the prized golden cloudberry (hjortron) as fresh berries with cream or as homemade jam, a seasonal Scandinavian delicacy.
• Game Stew (Viltkräm) — Try traditional Swedish creamed game stew made with reindeer, elk, or moose meat, often served at mountain lodges and nearby restaurants.
• Smoked Reindeer (Renstek) — Taste thin slices of cold-smoked reindeer meat, a traditional northern Swedish specialty reflecting the region's herding culture.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sami Heritage — The plateau and surrounding region has deep connections to Sami culture and reindeer herding; be respectful of any herds encountered and learn about indigenous land use.
• Follow Allemansrätten — Sweden's 'right to roam' allows public access to wilderness areas, but visitors must practice responsible behavior: stay on marked trails, pack out all waste, and respect private property.
• Weather Changes Rapidly — Mountain weather can shift from sunshine to fog and rain within hours; always carry extra layers and waterproof gear, even on clear mornings.
• Reserve Cabins in Advance — Mountain huts and cabins fill quickly during summer season; book accommodations weeks ahead to secure your preferred dates.