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Green is serene

Nature & outdoor life in Uppsala

In and around Uppsala, you’ll find everything from blooming meadows, woodlands, and deep forests to mountain bike trails and canoeing adventures. Leave the asphalt and city bustle behind and head out to explore Uppsala’s beautiful natural areas. There are plenty of options for those seeking recreation and outdoor experiences in nature. Everything is close by, and the range of activities is extensive — with many of the city’s recreation areas designed for accessibility.

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Explore nature and outdoor activities

Recreation areas such as Hammarskog, Fjällnora, and Sunnersta are open to the public all year round. In summer, you can enjoy kilometres of fitness trails, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, or canoeing. Some areas also feature adventure courses, climbing walls, and other activities for a more wilderness-like experience. In winter, ice-skating tracks are cleared and ski trails are groomed. Sunnerstabacken offers ski slopes with lifts for both skiing and snowboarding. If you’d like to learn more about Uppsala’s natural surroundings, you can also book a guided tour.

Read more about Uppsala’s nature reserves and outdoor areas here.

Lace up your boots and discover Uppsala’s hiking trails

Årummet, Upplandsleden, Linnaeus Trails, and Gula Stigen — there’s no shortage of paths and trails for those who love walking, running, or cycling surrounded by nature and greenery. Many of the trails are close to the city, making it easy to escape into the outdoors in no time.

Want more inspiration? Check out the guides Easy Hiking Trails and Five Challenging Hiking Routes — perfect whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a real adventure.

Canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding (SUP)

If you enjoy paddling, Uppsala offers plenty of opportunities — the waterways of Uppland are calm, scenic, and well-suited for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Fyris River features a beautiful canoe route starting in Vattholma and ending right in the city centre. You can also take a full-day trip along the Kolarmora River canoe trail, stretching 18 kilometres through peaceful nature. Beginners can book courses in sea kayaking or canoeing at the outdoor recreation areas or through local rental companies.

Where to rent equipment:

For more information about nature, recreation areas, and fitness trails, visit Uppsala Municipality’s website.

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