For those who thought the opportunity for a European skiing trip had passed, think again. One resort stands out by keeping its slopes open not only through April and May but also into the summer month of June.
Located in Arctic Sweden, Riksgränsen is the world’s most northern ski resort, positioned 94 miles beyond the renowned ICEHOTEL which by this time has melted away into the river. By June 21, diligent snow farmers at Riksgränsen have prepared the 909m tall mountain for the Midsommar downhill celebration, ensuring ample snow coverage for the event.
Visitors to Riksgränsen are treated to a unique skiing experience unlike anywhere else in the world. Skiers clad in T-shirts glide down the resort’s 21km of slopes from 10pm to 1am, under the midnight sun that continues to shine brightly at 68.4266°N. Despite my own visit to the Swedish resort during the day with overcast skies and chilling winds, the experience was still memorable.
Unlike the milder temperatures of the Alpine ski season, Sweden’s resorts can be bone-chillingly cold, dropping to -20°C. After skiing down Riksgränsen’s slopes, skiers often seek refuge in the food huts for a warming meal like meatballs or a veggie hot dog.
Riksgränsen is renowned for its off-piste skiing opportunities, with vast uncharted terrain on either side of the marked runs for adventurous skiers. The resort also offers heli-skiing, snowmobile tours, and even caving expeditions at Kåppasjåkkagrottan, Sweden’s largest cave.
The name Riksgränsen translates to national border, reflecting its reach into Norway. The Arctic ski pass required for access also grants entry to Björkliden, Fjällby, and Narvikfjellet, providing diverse skiing experiences at each location. Björkliden caters well to families with gentle slopes, while Narvik offers more challenging terrain and is undergoing upgrades for the FIS Alpine World Ski Championship in 2029.
Visitors can enjoy the stunning views and unique experiences at these resorts, with the Arctic ski pass costing around £140 and chalet accommodations starting from £166 per night at Björkliden’s Hotell Fjället. Flights to Kiruna, the gateway to these resorts, are priced from £96 in June, offering convenient access to the Arctic skiing wonders of Sweden and Norway.
