Trollsjön (Rissájaure) in Kiruna, Sweden

Explore Trollsjön (Rissájaure)

Trollsjön, known in Northern Sami as Rissájaure, is celebrated as Sweden's clearest lake, offering a remarkable natural spectacle in the municipality of Kiruna within the Norrbotten region. Nestled high in the mountains, this ultra-transparent body of water boasts visibility reaching up to thirty-four meters, allowing visitors to gaze deep into its crystalline depths as if looking through glass. The journey to the lake involves a scenic hike through the magnificent mountain landscapes of northern Sweden, drawing travelers who appreciate pristine wilderness, alpine vistas, and untouched arctic environments. As you approach the basin, the striking turquoise and blue hues of the water provide an unforgettable visual experience that sets it apart from other alpine lakes in the region. Whether you are an avid trekker looking to immerse yourself in the vast expanses of Swedish Lapland or a nature enthusiast seeking tranquil landscapes far from urban centers, Trollsjön delivers an authentic encounter with the subarctic environment. The surrounding valley amplifies the sense of isolation and wonder, making the trek a rewarding undertaking for those who venture into this remote corner of Norrbotten. Visitors can observe how light interacts with the pure meltwater descending from the surrounding peaks, creating shifting shades of azure throughout the day under the high northern skies.

History

Culture

The cultural landscape around Trollsjön is deeply intertwined with the traditions of the indigenous Sami people, who have inhabited and herded reindeer across these northern territories for millennia. Sápmi, the cultural region spanning northern Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia, places high value on harmonious coexistence with nature, traditional handicraft known as duodji, and storytelling tied to specific geographic landmarks. Rissájaure holds traditional significance within local indigenous geography, reflecting a worldview where mountains, lakes, and rivers possess distinct names and histories. Visitors exploring the Kiruna area have the opportunity to learn about Sami history, modern reindeer husbandry practices, and traditional joik vocal art through cultural centers and local guides. This heritage emphasizes stewardship of the land, reminding travelers that the pristine trails and waters they enjoy are part of an ancient, living cultural homeland rather than a mere recreation park.

Attractions

The primary attraction surrounding Trollsjön is the classic hiking trail that leads visitors from the Björkliden area through the steep-walled hanging valley known as Låktatjåkka canyon. This well-trodden path guides trekkers alongside rushing mountain streams and over rugged terrain, providing continuous panoramic views of the subarctic landscape. For those seeking an even higher vantage point, the nearby Låktatjåkka mountain station—Sweden's highest hotel and restaurant—offers a compelling destination for a demanding day hike or an overnight stay above the tree line. Photography enthusiasts will find endless subjects in the interplay of alpine light, sparse tundra flora, and the mirror-like reflections on calm days at the lake. During the summer months, the phenomenon of the midnight sun extends viewing hours late into the evening, allowing for late-night hikes under a continuous golden glow. In the shoulder seasons, the transition of the landscape offers dramatic contrasts between lingering snowfields and emerging mountain vegetation. Each element of the journey emphasizes outdoor exploration, encouraging visitors to engage actively with the protected geography of northern Sweden while respecting the fragile mountain ecosystems that define the region.

Visit the iconic sites

Caveats

Visiting Trollsjön requires careful preparation due to the remote alpine environment and unpredictable weather conditions characteristic of northern Sweden. Mountain weather can shift rapidly, bringing sudden drops in temperature, high winds, or heavy rain even during the summer months, making appropriate layering and waterproof gear essential. The hiking trail involves uneven terrain, rocky sections, and occasional wet areas, requiring sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of physical fitness. Because mobile phone coverage can be unreliable or entirely absent in the remote valleys around Kiruna, visitors should carry physical maps and inform others of their planned itinerary before setting out. It is also vital to practice Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that all litter is packed out and that fragile arctic flora is not disturbed by foot traffic or camping. During peak mosquito season in mid-summer, bringing adequate insect repellent is strongly advised for comfort along the lower sections of the trail. Finally, visitors must respect local reindeer herding activities managed by the indigenous Sami communities, giving working animals ample space and closing gates behind them when traversing pasture lands.

Explore Trollsjön (Rissájaure)

History