Storforsen is the name of Sweden's largest rapids, about 40 kilometres from Älvsbyn. In the last 600 metres, the Piteälv River drops more than 50 metres in altitude, and the rapids stretch for a total of five kilometres. You can get up close to them without getting your feet wet via paths and boardwalks.
Up to 870 cubic metres of water per second
The Piteälv is one of Sweden's four major rivers not developed for hydroelectric power. A hiking trail runs right next to the steepest section of the rapids, partly on the dam once set up for rafting.
A rainbow can often be seen above the foaming white waves. The river carries the most water after the snow melts, around midsummer. Then an average of 870 cubic metres of water per second rushes down the Storforsen. In addition to the spectacular main stream, there are also small side arms and the "Dead Fall", which was cut off when the river was developed for rafting. In winter the water flow is less, but the Storforsen never freezes over.
A popular destination
The area around Storforsen and its tributaries is accessible via a network of paths. On the hike you can also discover so-called glacial pots, circular holes that were formed during the Ice Age. There are picnic areas and barbecue sites for day trippers. In summer there is also a café. The Storforsen Hotel offers further gastronomy.