The park supports a rich diversity of Arctic wildlife, including moose, wolverines, Arctic foxes, and lynx. The area is crucial for reindeer husbandry, with both wild and semi-domesticated herds present. Bird enthusiasts can spot golden eagles, rough-legged buzzards, and ptarmigans. The park's waters host Arctic char and brown trout, while smaller fauna includes lemmings and various vole species adapted to the harsh mountain environment.
The vegetation varies dramatically with altitude, from ancient mountain birch forests in the valleys to hardy alpine plants on the heights. The park harbors rare arctic-alpine species including mountain avens, alpine bearberry, and various lichens. Lower elevations support dwarf birch, crowberry, and cloudberry, while the highest zones feature specialized plants adapted to extreme conditions, such as purple saxifrage and alpine mouse-ear.
The park showcases dramatic mountain landscapes formed during the Caledonian orogeny around 400 million years ago. Characterized by ancient bedrock, glacial valleys, and dramatic peaks reaching heights over 2,000 meters, the area features distinctive U-shaped valleys carved by glaciers during the last ice age. The park's namesake waterfall, though modified, remains a testament to the powerful geological forces that shaped this landscape.
Established in 1909 as one of Sweden's first national parks, Stora Sjöfallet (meaning 'Great Sea Falls') was originally created to protect its magnificent waterfall system. The area has been home to the Sami people for thousands of years, who continue their traditional reindeer herding practices. The park's character changed significantly in the 1920s when hydroelectric development altered the original waterfall, though this industrial heritage now forms part of its unique story.
Key attractions include the Akka massif, often called 'the Queen of Lapland,' with its distinctive peaks and glaciers. The modified but still impressive Stora Sjöfallet waterfall remains a central feature, while Lake Akkajaure offers stunning views and excellent fishing opportunities. The park also features well-marked hiking trails, including sections of the famous Kungsleden trail, and several mountain stations providing accommodation for visitors.
Stora Sjöfallet experiences a subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Winter temperatures typically range from -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F), while summer temperatures average 10-15°C (50-59°F). The park receives significant snowfall from October through May, with polar nights in winter and midnight sun in summer. Visitors should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions and dress in layers year-round.
Sweden
67.5000°, 17.5670°
1909
1278
Stora Sjöfallet is one of Sweden's oldest national parks and part of the Laponian World Heritage area. The park features dramatic mountain landscapes, vast forests, and powerful waterfalls. It is home to numerous Arctic species and provides important reindeer grazing grounds for the Sami people.