Vindelälven
Frenzied rapids
Expect to get wet because when the river is bubbling and the guide is calling out commands, success or failure comes down to lightning-fast teamwork. The raft air tanks bounce against rocks and the river is a foamy white for as far as the eye can see. Fortune is smiling – right here and now. Action adventure that is up close and personal with nature and leaves you wanting more.
The unregulated Vindelälven River is one of Scandinavia's best whitewater racing waters, with a total of 16 rapids ranging from class 2 to 6+. This means there is everything from waves in roaring water to strong currents that border on being impassable. You choose not only the degree of difficulty, but also the boat. A Colorado raft for the really large rapids, where you main job is to stay on the boat as best you can. Or how about a paddle boat, which is most popular since you get to actively participate.
You can also choose a row boat, which is powered by a guide with the passengers. Start at an easy level and then work your way up in difficulty.
Forsknäckarna in Ekorrsele offers whitewater racing from a half-day to a whole weekend. Experienced guides and the highest level of safety. Wetsuit and shoes, jacket, helmet and lifejacket are included.
Follow route 363 west from Umeå via Vindeln to route 699 towards Lycksele (80 km). Pass the village of Ekorrsele and the bridge over Vindelälven. Then follow the exit signs.
No 48 WHITEWATER RACING / VINDELÄLVEN
GOOD TO KNOW
- Activity: Whitewater racing
- Location: Vindelälven, Sweden
- Season: May-October
- Degree of difficulty: Everyone is welcome. Certain stretches are well suited to beginners.
- Other facts: Vindelälven is one of Sweden's four national rivers and was made famous by Evert Taube's song Änglamark (The Angelic Land) from 1971, which was partly based on the political battle regarding the development of the Vindelälven region. The song was written for the movie Äppelkriget (The Apple War) and the verse "Låt sista älven som brusar i vår natur brusa alltjämt mellan fjällar och gran och fur!" (Let the last river roaring through our nature eternally continue to roar between mountains and spruce and fir!) is about Vindelälven in particular. As a tribute to Evert Taube's dedication, a monument was erected at Vormforsen Rapids.
Pocket-sized guide
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