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måndag 2 november 2009

Sarek on the run in a week - A crazy idea?

Five years ago I hiked in Sarek, Lapland. It was a fantatastic experience. I would love to go there again, but it is very difficult for me to get away for a longer period and it takes quite a lot of time (Approximately 2 days) just to get into the national park. After having switched to lightweight equipment I have however regained the hope of getting there again. A crazy idea was born: I should be able to hike so fast that I could reach the Rapa-valley and get back in under a week. I MUST see the Rapa-valley before I die.

Kungsleden with Lulep Gierkau in the background. Still at least a day from Sarek national park. The trail is like a highway and running should not be a problem at least to Sitojaure.


Fording a stream near Lietjitjaure. Ähpar and Pierikpakte in the background. Fording can be very dangerous in Sarek.

Several questions need to be answered for such a an endeavour to be succesful:

  1. Route planning - What is the optimal route that will maximize interesting hiking and provide for good running?
  2. Equipment - How heavy a pack can be tolerated when you are running? What kind of pack? What kind of shelter?
  3. Safety - How light can you go without sacrificing safety? Sarek is a wilderness area and there are no trails. If you fall, noone will hear you scream.
  4. Fitness - I almost never find time for exercise. What do I need to cope with to feel safe before going?
  5. Season - What is the best season for such a fast and light hike?
  6. Travel planning  - How do you get to Sarek in the cheapest and fastest way?
  7. Resupply - How much food should I carry?
Is this a good idea at all? Will I be able to find anyone to come with me on such an innovative trip? Should I plan to do something easier instead with the time I have? I will follow this post with some thoughts on the different topics soon. Any comments and hints are welcome.