Summer in Sälen – Activities and Experiences for the Whole Family

Summer in Sälen is so much more than mountains and silence. Once the snow melts, a landscape of glittering river water, sun-warmed sandy beaches and bright evenings that never seem to end takes over. Here are the best summer activities in Sälen – from calm canoeing on the Västerdalälven to hiking, beaver safaris and swimming.

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Summer in Sälen – Activities and Experiences for the Whole Family

Canoeing on Västerdalälven

Västerdalälven is one of Sweden's finest paddling routes, winding through pristine nature with sandy beaches, calm bays and stunning views. You can rent a canoe and paddle day trips or multi-day adventures – no experience required.

Sälens Kanotcentral offers day trips from 10 km suitable for the whole family, as well as longer expeditions for those who want to explore more of Dalarna's wilderness. Transport to the starting point, canoes, paddles and life jackets are included.

Paddling in Sälen is the perfect way to experience the nature of Dalarna – at your own pace, without engine noise, in the heart of the mountain world.

Popular day trips:

Högstrand–Sälen

Fulunäs–Sälen

Beaver Safari

At dusk, the beavers of Västerdalälven come to life. By canoe you glide silently along the river with the chance to see these fascinating animals in their natural habitat. Choose between an evening trip on your own or a guided beaver safari with a local guide and cooking over an open fire.

A beaver safari in Sälen is a unique experience suitable for all ages – and something you won't find in many other places in Sweden.

Hiking and Mountain Walks

The Sälen mountains offer hiking for all levels. From easy trails through birch forests to challenging mountain hikes with panoramic views over Dalarna. Popular trails include Kungsleden (the southern section), Fulufjället National Park with Njupeskär – Sweden's highest waterfall – and the local trails around Sälen.

During the summer months it stays light until late in the evening, giving you plenty of time to explore the Swedish mountain world.

Fulufjället National Park

Hiking trails on Fulufjället (Visit Dalarna)

Fishing in Sälen

Västerdalälven and the surrounding mountain lakes are known for their excellent fishing. Here you'll find trout, grayling and char. Several of our canoe tour routes pass excellent fishing spots – bring your rod and combine paddling with fishing for a perfect day in nature.

Mountain Biking and Cycling

Sälen has a growing network of cycling and mountain bike trails. The ski resorts open their lifts for cyclists during summer, and there are plenty of trails through the forests for those who prefer to ride on their own.

Sälen Trail Park (trail cycling)

Sälen Bike Park (lift-served cycling)

Swimming and Relaxation

Along Västerdalälven you'll find several scenic sandy beaches perfect for swimming and picnics. Many of our canoe tour routes pass these spots – stop, swim and enjoy the Swedish summer before paddling on. If you'd like an indoor option, Experium offers an adventure pool and spa in Lindvallen.

Experium adventure pool & spa

More Activities & Day-Trip Tips in Sälen

Canoeing and beaver safaris are our own speciality – but there's much more to experience in Sälen in summer. Here are a few tips from other operators in the area.

Climbing Park & High Ropes

High ropes course, ziplines and adventure for the whole family by Svansjön in Lindvallen.

Mountain Coaster & More Adventures

Race down the mountain on the coaster and discover SkiStar's other summer activities.

Experium Adventure Pool & Spa

Indoor pool, surf facility, spa and entertainment for rainy days in Lindvallen.

Kläppen in Summer

Activities, bike park and family adventures at Kläppen by the Västerdalälven river.

Moose Safari in Sälen

Guided safari with the chance to meet the king of the forest in its natural habitat, with Explore Sälen.

Golf, Padel & More

Sälen also offers golf, padel and more summer adventures – see Visit Dalarna's guide.

Contact and booking

Sälens Kanotcentral, Näsholmen, 780 67 Sälen, Sverige. +46 280 218 28, bokning@salenkanot.se.