Sarek's wildlife includes some of Scandinavia's most iconic species, such as brown bears, wolverines, lynx, and moose. The park serves as vital habitat for the endangered Arctic fox and hosts significant populations of golden eagles and other raptors. Large herds of reindeer, both wild and semi-domesticated, migrate through the park seasonally. The pristine mountain streams support Arctic char and brown trout, while the alpine zones harbor unique populations of lemmings and ptarmigan.
Despite the harsh climate, Sarek hosts a remarkable diversity of Arctic and alpine plants, with over 400 documented species. The vegetation follows distinct altitudinal zones, from sparse lichen and moss in the highest elevations to lush birch forests in protected valleys. Notable species include the mountain avens, Alpine bearberry, and various rare orchids. The park's varied topography creates numerous microhabitats, supporting both common tundra species and rare botanical specimens found nowhere else in Sweden.
Sarek's dramatic landscape was shaped by glacial activity during the last ice age, resulting in deep U-shaped valleys, sharp peaks, and extensive glacial fields. The park contains over 100 glaciers and numerous peaks above 1,800 meters, including Sarektjåkkå, the second-highest mountain in Sweden. The bedrock consists primarily of ancient metamorphic and igneous rocks, with significant deposits of minerals and rare earth elements. Active glacial processes continue to shape the terrain, creating moraines, cirques, and distinctive alpine features.
Established in 1909, Sarek was one of Europe's first national parks and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. The area has been home to the indigenous Sami people for thousands of years, who continue their traditional reindeer herding practices within the park. The region gained international attention in the early 20th century through the work of Swedish botanist Axel Hamberg, whose extensive research and photography helped document the park's unique landscape and led to its protected status.
The park's most distinctive features include the massive Rapa Valley, often called 'the Grand Canyon of Sweden,' and the dramatic Skårki massif with its knife-edge ridges. The confluence of six major valleys near Aktse creates a spectacular panorama known as the 'Sarek Cross.' The park contains over 200 peaks above 1,800 meters and nearly 100 glaciers, making it one of Europe's last true wilderness areas. The absence of marked trails and facilities maintains the park's pristine character, offering visitors an authentic wilderness experience.
Sarek National Park experiences a subarctic climate with long, harsh winters and brief summers. Average temperatures range from -15°C in winter to 12°C in summer, though extremes from -40°C to 25°C can occur. The park receives significant snowfall between October and May, with snow often persisting in higher elevations year-round. Weather conditions can change rapidly due to the mountainous terrain, making proper preparation essential. July and August offer the most stable conditions for visitors, though rainfall remains common throughout the year.
Sweden
67.2830°, 17.7000°
1909
1970
Sarek National Park is considered one of Europe's most magnificent mountain landscapes. The park contains over 100 glaciers and numerous peaks over 2,000 meters high. It features dramatic valleys, powerful rivers, and is known for its challenging terrain and pristine wilderness.