What is Fjällräven Classic?

When and where did Fjällräven Classic begin? 

The first Fjällräven Classic (as we know it today) took place in summer 2005, in northern Sweden, way above the Arctic Circle on the long-distance King’s Trail. 

This was not, however, the first multi-day trek Fjällräven offered to the public. 

Why did Fjällräven want to do a trekking event in the first place? 

In 1979, Fjällräven founder Åke Nordin started what was then called “Fjällräven Weeks”. He wanted his fellow Swedes to experience the feeling of freedom offered by trekking for a few days. It was Fjällräven’s first step in taking curious beginners out into nature. 

Fast-forward to 2005 when the event was updated as an opportunity to encourage Swedes – who were spending more time in cities and travelling to sun-drenched beaches – to experience the wonderful nature in their own backyards. 

Over the years Fjällräven Classic has expanded globally and now attracts thousands. Its purpose is enabling more people to experience nature by giving them a taste of Swedish-style trekking. It is also an opportunity for people to bring their experience home, starting their own trekking adventures and passing along their knowledge and inspiration to others. 

Where can I do Fjällräven Classic? 

Fjällräven Classic takes place in seven locations: Sweden, Denmark, Germany, the USA, Korea, the UK and – in 2024 for the first time ever – Chile. 

What’s the difference between the treks? 

United by bringing multi-day trekking to everyone, each Fjällräven Classic has its own combination of terrain, wildlife and culture that makes it uniquely appealing to different trekkers. 

Fjällräven Classic Sweden – the original event – is the longest at 110 kilometres. The landscape is relatively flat, but the trail is rocky and rugged, and because of the “dynamic” northern Swedish weather (there has been snow!), the trek requires a little more equipment. Due to allemansrätten, or Sweden’s right of public access, you can set up camp anywhere along the trail. 

Fjällräven Classic Denmark was the first Fjällräven Classic to be offered outside of Sweden and is a unique combination of nature and Danish culture. Winding through forests and over undulating farmland, the trail is long, 72 kilometres. Never far away from the sea, the weather changes year to year, but the convivial atmosphere in the designated camping areas makes it a great option for trekkers of all levels.  

Fjällräven Classic USA takes place in the Colorado backcountry and reaches the highest point of all the treks, offering impressive views of the Continental Divide. As the trek is steep and at a high altitude, it is recommended to arrive a few days in advance to acclimate. You’ll be rewarded with glimpses of local wildlife, like moose and marmots. 

Fjällräven Classic UK takes place in the Lake District national park in north-west England. This area hosts the highest point in England and a fantastic mix of local history and natural landscapes. The weather conditions are determined by the sea’s proximity, but the trails are well kept, and the views are spectacular. 

Fjällräven Classic Germany stretches through the beautiful Allgäu Prealps in the heart of Bavaria. The route is 57-kilometres long, over 2,000 vertical metres high, and winds past locals clad in traditional garb who cheer on participants and grazing cows that ponderously observe the action.  

Fjällräven Classic Korea is an atmospheric combination of mountains, forest and the sea. Starting at the highest mountain in Korea and finishing by the water, the rugged route includes volcanic UNESCO world heritage area Jeju Island. 

Taking place for the first time ever in 2024, Fjällräven Classic Chile goes into the heart of Chilean Patagonia. There you will see mountain glaciers calving into the sea and gigantic estancias, and use trails only accessible during the event. Respectable distances, vertical climbs and changeable weather make the trek challenging, but doable with preparation and a positive mindset. 

How should I prepare? 

Walk, a lot! But do so with a backpack weighing at least 10 kilos. If you can, it is better to do one or two long walks a week in nature, than more shorter walks around the neighbourhood. It’s about building up endurance and getting used to walking on rough, uneven terrain. 

Add squats, box steps and core training to your walking routine, too. Although anyone can join us for Fjällräven Classic, you’ll enjoy it a lot more if you’re in shape. 

What should I pack? 

What you bring largely depends on which Fjällräven Classic you’re taking part in.  

Generally speaking though, you should pack a tent, sleeping bag, camp stove and first-aid kit. Your clothing should be versatile, like zip-off trousers and mid layer tops. Hats are essential, as are shell garments and an insulation jacket. 

The great thing about Fjällräven Classic, is you don’t have to worry about food. It’s taken care of and other essentials are on-hand that volunteers are happy to provide when need arises. 

I’m a beginner. Is Fjällräven Classic for me?

Yes! Just make sure you take some time to train and prepare. Also, make use of our pack lists and follow the Fjällräven Classic Facebook group for the latest information and inspiration.  

Grab some friends too. It’s always easier to stay motivated if you’ve got others to train with. 

I’m an expert trekker. Why should I do Fjällräven Classic? 

As Fjällräven Classic will likely be less intensive than the multi-day treks you are used to planning yourself, you can take it as an opportunity to spend time enjoying nature in a social setting. The trek is a great way to meet other people. Not to mention a chance to share your knowledge and experience with others.  

Is it okay for the environment to have many people trekking together at once? 

It is critical to curtail any impacts Fjällräven Classic has on local environments. The first thing we do is consult with local authorities to determine acceptable participant numbers for their environment.  

Fjällräven’s Global Events and CSR & Compliance teams also work closely to optimise the treks’ resource usage, reward climate-friendly transportation and reduce waste. Fjällräven’s goal is to reduce Fjällräven Classic Sweden’s emissions 30% by 2025 and create a roadmap for future zero-waste events. As Aiko Bode, Chief Sustainability Officer, CSR & Compliance says, “Fjällräven’s mission is to bring people out in nature, while leaving basecamp in better shape than we found it.” 

During the treks themselves, Fjällräven Classic participants are encouraged to actively seek out and pick up trash from the trail. At some events, participants get their own branded trash bag and competitions are held to see who can collect the most waste. The commitment does not end with education either. Fjällräven also invests in environmental restoration and conservation projects to preserve and improve the local ecosystems of each trek. 

Where can I find out more? 

Check out the Fjällräven Classic website experience.fjallraven.com/classic. You should also sign up for the Fjällräven newsletter, which will give you early access to tickets. 

February 2024