Urban hiking is quickly becoming a trend for 2025. As more people seek accessible, sustainable, and engaging ways to stay active, city trails and green corridors have become the go-to choice for hikers of all experience levels. Read on and learn about the top five urban hikes in Sweden in 2025.
Sweden, with its well-planned cities, lush parks, and scenic waterfronts, offers some of the best urban hiking experiences in the world. Here are the top five urban hikes in Sweden this year:
1. Stockholm’s Djurgården Loop
A classic favorite, Djurgården offers a blend of history, nature, and waterfront views. The 10km loop takes you through Royal Parkland, past cultural landmarks like Skansen and the Vasa Museum, and along serene canals. Whether you’re a casual walker or an avid hiker, this trail provides the perfect mix of urban exploration and green escape.
2. Gothenburg’s Änggårdsbergen Nature Reserve
Tucked between the city and nature, this reserve is an urban hiker’s paradise. The trails wind through rolling forests, open heathlands, and scenic viewpoints overlooking Gothenburg. Depending on your chosen route, hikes range from 5 to 15km, making it suitable for various levels.
3. Malmö’s Ribersborg Beach & Västra Hamnen
For those who love a mix of cityscapes and coastal scenery, Malmö’s Ribersborg Beach trail leading to Västra Hamnen is ideal. This 8km route lets you soak in the Öresund strait views, pass through vibrant cultural districts, and end at the city’s modern architectural hub, including the iconic Turning Torso.
4. Uppsala’s City & River Trail
Uppsala’s urban hiking experience offers a fascinating blend of history and nature. A 7km route along the Fyris River takes you past Uppsala Castle, the Botanical Gardens and Gamla Uppsala, home to ancient Viking burial mounds. It’s a perfect way to mix walking with cultural discovery.
5. Lund’s Botanical Walk & Stadsparken Loop
Lund’s charm lies in its historic streets, university vibe, and green spaces. A 6km loop through Lund’s Botanical Garden, Stadsparken, and medieval city center offers a relaxing yet engaging urban hike.
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Why urban hiking is a fast-growing trend in 2025
Urban hiking is more than just walking through a city – it’s an immersive experience that blends exercise, culture, and nature. It’s about re-routing your commute to work, moving your body and re-discovering your city. The rise of urban hiking in 2025 can be attributed to several factors:
Accessibility: Unlike traditional hiking, urban hikes don’t require heavy and expensive gear, travel, or extensive planning. Anyone can step out of their door and start exploring.
Sustainability: It’s a great way to get around without a car and to avoid long car trips to national parks.
Social connection: Hiking in cities encourages community interaction, group hikes, and fitness clubs. At Merrell Hiking Club we have 3 events in Sweden this year! (See below).
Mental well-being: Studies continue to show the mental health benefits of walking and keeping your body active.
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How hiking in towns and cities makes hiking so much more accessible
One of the biggest advantages of urban hiking is its inclusivity. Unlike mountain trails that may be challenging for beginners, city-based hikes provide a variety of terrains suited to all fitness levels. Additionally, urban trails are often equipped with benches, rest stops, and nearby cafés, making the experience more inviting for all ages.
With Sweden’s well-maintained green spaces, waterfront trails, and pedestrian-friendly urban planning, urban hiking is opening the doors for more people to enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle.
Merrell Hiking Club’s 2025 events in Sweden:
For those looking to experience the best of urban hiking with a supportive community, Merrell Hiking Club is hosting three exciting events in Sweden this year:
Stockholm Urban Hike (Spring 2025): A guided hike on March 30th with lifestyle influencer Olivia Lodenius Björk and adventurer Annelie Pompe to celebrate the end of Women’s History Month.
Gothenburg’s Urban Hike (Summer 2025): Partnering with incredible photographer Clara Morberg, we will host a hike and photography workshop in June.
Stockholm’s Sunset City Walk (Late Summer 2025): A relaxed urban hike designed to enjoy Stockholm’s fall colors, waterfronts, and city lights at dusk with new mum and wellness coach Sofie Kraft in late August.
These events are perfect for anyone looking to embrace the urban hiking trend while meeting like-minded adventurers.
To learn more and sign up, join our Facebook Group or follow our Eventbrite Page.
The Top Five Urban Hikes in Sweden in 2025, presented by Ida Lundkvist, a community lead for Merrell Hiking Club, a collective championing women in the outdoors.
Feature image (on top): © Laura Matthews/Unsplash