Hiking in Brattforsheden Kittelfältet – An Unforgettable Experience in Värmland
Brattforsheden Kittelfältet is a unique nature reserve in the province of Värmland. The area is located near Lake Alstern and is characterized by impressive craters. These craters were formed during the Ice Age, when icebergs became trapped in the sand. The term "dead ice" refers to the fact that these icebergs did not move, unlike the ice sheet that was constantly shifting. In the deepest craters, you’ll find small lakes that further enrich the area's natural beauty.

One of the most beautiful hikes in the nature reserve is the route that starts at the parking area on the north side of the reserve. Follow the orange markers to the famous blue-green lake. At a junction, you can follow the orange markers towards Alstertjärnarna. After that, you will come across a green marker and a sign that says "Dödisgrupar." This circular hike is 1.8 km long and occasionally steep. From one of the peaks, you’ll have a stunning view of the lake. At the end of the trail, there is a cabin – an ideal spot for a lunch break.

Storöviken is another beautiful spot at Lake Alstern. You can reach it through a scenic hike. Start from our location, turn right onto the asphalt road, and after about 8 km, turn left towards Västerud. Follow the road past the village of Västerud until you see a sign for "Storöviken." There, you can park and follow the orange markers. The route is 1.8 km long. From Storöviken, you can follow the Västerudsleden trail along Lake Alstern to the Angsågen parking area, 9 km further.

Brattforsheden Kittelfältet – A Stunning Nature Reserve in Värmland
Brattforsheden Kittelfältet is a beautiful nature reserve for hikers. Whether you take a short walk or embark on a longer trek, this area offers a unique nature experience. Discover the impressive geology, rich flora and fauna, and enjoy the pristine wilderness of this remarkable part of Sweden.

The flora in this nature reserve is dominated by reindeer lichen, heather, and crowberry. You will also encounter flowers growing in the ponds, and on the peatlands, you can find cloudberries and dwarf birches. The area is home to rare plant species, such as the sedge flat-rush, and in the water, you might occasionally spot water carpets and flatworms.

For bird enthusiasts, this area is exceptional: you can spot species such as the woodlark, night heron, tree pipit, and thrush. Additionally, both small and great loons sometimes make brief visits to the lakes.

Natural disturbances, such as fire, play a role in preserving the area's biodiversity. In 2015, approximately 9 hectares of the nature reserve were burned to promote ecological diversity, and in 2020, another 4 hectares were affected by fire in Kittelfältet.

Location and Accessibility

Brattforsheden Kittelfältet is located in the municipality of Filipstad, east of Stegelviken and south of Lake Alstern, approximately 5 km west of Brattfors. The entrance to the nature reserve is situated along Route 63 between Karlstad and Filipstad. Information boards are available about 4 km south of Brattfors, and there are parking areas in both the northern and southern parts of the reserve.