When should you start the Kungsleden?

On the Kungsleden (Abisko to Hemavan), the most reliable start window is June to mid August. In this summer span the high passes are mostly clear of snow, huts and lake boats are running, days are long, and stream crossings are usually manageable. You’ll still get changeable weather—sun one hour, showers the next—but it’s the smoothest time to plan a full north–south walk.

Early summer: June

• What it’s like: Changeable and often cloudy. Northern sections and higher plateaus can still hold patches of snow, and you can see sleety showers on the passes. In the valleys you’ll swing between grey, damp hours and brighter breaks.
• Why go now: Enormous daylight in the north (near‑continuous light early in the month), cooler walking temps, quieter trails at the start of the season.
• Watch for: Meltwater making trails boggy and streams lively, especially in early June. Mosquitoes ramp up toward the end of the month in calm, low areas. Most huts and boat crossings are coming online; check dates if you’re starting very early.

High summer: July

• What it’s like: The most straightforward month. Trails are largely clear of lingering snow, stream levels have eased, and all the moving parts—huts, shops, and boats—are typically in full swing. Weather still flips between sunny spells and showers.
• Why go now: Easiest logistics, long days, and your best chance of a mostly snow‑free traverse.
• Watch for: It can still feel chilly on the high fells, and brief sleet isn’t unheard of on the passes. Mosquitoes are at their worst in calm, wooded and boggy sections; a headnet and choosing breezier camps help a lot.

Late high summer: early to mid August

• What it’s like: Cool to mild days with frequent showers and a few soaking systems, but also clearer windows. Nights start to cool, yet there’s still generous daylight for big stages.
• Why go now: Often fewer insects than July, berries ripening, and a steadier feel to stream crossings.
• Watch for: Wet, windy days feel cold on the plateaus; carry solid rain layers and warm gloves/hat even in August.

Shoulder season: late August to September

• What it’s like: A quick turn toward autumn. Expect more grey, damp stretches, regular drizzle or rain, and the season’s first snows on higher ground. Nights are cold with possible frost; days can still be beautiful when the cloud breaks, and the tundra turns vivid.
• Pros and cons: Fewer people and fewer bugs, but shorter days, colder, and more chance of slippery snow on the passes. Some services begin to scale back as September goes on; boat crossings may stop for the season.

Winter and spring: October to May

• What it’s like: A wintry trail with frequent snowfall, limited sunshine, and deep cold—especially north of the Arctic Circle. From late autumn through early spring, this is a ski or winter‑travel objective, not a summer hike.
• What that means: Snow cover, frozen lakes, and winter hut routines. Walking the whole route isn’t practical; experienced winter travelers switch to skis or snowshoes and plan for true Arctic conditions.

A few practical notes for any summer date

• Expect changeable weather: Cloud and showers are common even in the best months; carry reliable rain gear and warm layers.
• High ground stays chilly: Wind and wet can make passes feel wintry any time. Gloves and a warm hat earn their keep.
• Bugs come and go: Worst in late June and July in calm, low areas; better with wind, elevation, and by August.
• Logistics matter: Several lakes are crossed by boat; these typically run in summer. Huts follow a summer season too—check current opening information if you’re near the edges of June or late August.

In short: Pick June, July, or early to mid August for the smoothest walk on the Kungsleden. You’ll still need to be ready for cool, damp spells—but the long days, open facilities, and mostly snow‑free passes make this stretch of Lapland feel welcoming and doable.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the trail.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Abisko to Hemavan, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.