Haute Route Riksgränsen - Abisko

Riksgränsen to Abisko - A Nordic Haute Route in Arctic Terrain 

This is not a standard ski tour. It’s a traverse through the mountains.

Over five days, we move from Riksgränsen to Abisko through one of Sweden’s most complex and spectacular mountain regions. On skis, we cross passes, move through valleys and along ridgelines – day after day, with a clear direction through the terrain. This is a Nordic take on a Haute Route.

We leave the lift system behind from the start and move into areas such as Låkktatjåkkå and Kårsavagge. Here, it’s not just about skiing – it’s about reading the terrain, managing conditions and moving efficiently through the mountains. Each day brings new challenges and varied skiing, from open slopes to more alpine features.

We stay in mountain lodges and huts along the way, allowing us to maintain a steady pace and focus on the execution of the traverse – without compromising safety or endurance.

This is a trip for those with prior experience who want something more continuous.
A journey where you don’t just reach a summit – you complete a line through an entire mountain range.

Program 

Day 1 – Riksgränsen to Låkktatjåkkå 

We meet in Abisko at 11:00. We start with lunch and a detailed briefing covering equipment, safety and the plan for the coming days. We adjust packing and ensure everyone is fully prepared for the traverse.

We quickly leave the lift system behind, transfer towards Riksgränsen and ascend towards Låkktatjåkkå. Depending on time and conditions, we’ll do a short tour in the area before settling in at Sweden’s highest mountain station for the night.

Accommodation: Låkktatjåkkå Mountain Station (shared twin or dorm)

Day 2 – Låkktatjåkkå to Kårsavagge 

We leave the mountain station and move deeper into more remote terrain towards Kårsavagge.
The landscape becomes bigger, more exposed and significantly more isolated.

The focus is on efficient movement, sound decision-making and establishing a sustainable pace for the days ahead.

Accommodation: Kårsavagge Hut (shared dorm)

Day 3 – Kårsavagge to Abiskojaure 

We continue east and gradually leave the more alpine terrain behind.
The landscape opens up into rolling mountain terrain.

Long distances on skis, with a focus on endurance, good skiing and maintaining a steady pace throughout the day.

Accommodation: Abiskojaure Hut (shared dorm)

Day 4 – Abiskojaure to Abisko 

The final stage takes us all the way to Abisko, crossing summits along the way.
We follow the valley and complete the traverse with a longer transition where pace and endurance are key.

A day that ties the entire route together – from Riksgränsen to Abisko.

Accommodation: Abisko Mountain Station (shared dorm)

Day 5 – Final Tour & Departure 

Breakfast followed by a final tour on Nuolja before departure from Abisko around 15:00.

Prerequisites 

This trip is designed for those with prior ski touring experience who want to take the next step into a multi-day traverse.

You should:
– Be comfortable with ski touring techniques (skins, kick turns and equipment)
– Maintain a pace of approx. 400 vertical meters per hour over multiple days
– Have good fitness and be able to move 6–8 hours per day
– Be used to carrying a daypack in mountain terrain

Previous Haute Route experience is not required, but you should feel confident skiing in varied terrain and motivated to move in a more remote environment.

We operate in terrain where weather and conditions can change rapidly, requiring both physical capacity and mental flexibility.

Small Groups – Big Experiences 

We always travel in small groups of maximum 6 participants.
This allows for a safe, personal and flexible experience, where the guide has time for each individual – both on the mountain and in planning.

Small teams move more efficiently, allow for better route choices based on conditions, and create a stronger sense of teamwork and shared experience.

Personal Equipment 

Below is a recommended equipment list. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. 

Ski Equipment 

– Touring skis with bindings (preferably tech/pin bindings)

– Skins fitted to your skis

– Ski crampons

– Adjustable poles with large baskets

– Touring boots suitable for long ascents

– Avalanche safety equipment: transceiver, probe and shovel (available to borrow)   

Clothing & Personal Gear 

– Ski clothing for variable weather (shell jacket, shell pants, mid layers, base layers) 

– Extra base layers (2)

– Insulation jacket (light down or fleece)

– Extra gloves/mittens

– Hat and buff/neck warmer

– Sunglasses with proper UV protection

– Goggles

– Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF

– Headlamp with extra batteries  

Overnight & Practical 

– Ski backpack (35–45L)

– Travel sheet / lightweight sleeping liner (not a full sleeping bag)

– Hut shoes or lightweight slippers

– Toiletries (minimal) and small towel

– Earplugs (recommended for shared rooms)

– Power bank (limited electricity in huts)

Technical Equipment

– Harness

– Crampons

– Ice axe 

Food & Extras

– Water bottle

– 2 days of meals for huts without restaurant (food available to purchase on-site)

– Snacks and energy (nuts, chocolate, bars)

– Personal first aid kit (incl. blister care) 

Included 

– Five days of ski touring with a certified mountain guide

– Four nights accommodation in mountain huts, shared rooms

– Half board except in huts without restaurant

– Transport Abisko – Riksgränsen

– Avalanche safety equipment (shovel, probe, transceiver)

– Lift ticket (one ride on Nuolja)

– 16-week training program

– Full logistics and planning by Mountain Guide Travel 

Not Included

– Insurance covering off-piste skiing and mountain rescue

– Personal equipment

– Lunch, snacks and drinks

– Meals in huts without restaurant

– Travel to/from Abisko