Malå: Storforsen, Sámi history and nature trails

The Storforsen gorge and the rapids upstream and downstream of it are part of the Malå-Storforsen Nature Reserve. An old log-floating hut stands on the north bank. Here, a striking river landscape and a reminder of log floating come together—two different reasons to visit.

Forests, wetlands and waterways

Malå lies inland in Västerbotten County. The municipality includes Lappish natural forests, extensive wetlands and the waterways of the Malån. The wider Malåbygden area is also shaped by vast forests and waterways. There, hiking trails offer opportunities for recreation and outdoor activities. If you want to focus your trip on nature experiences, these landscapes offer a different emphasis from a visit to cultural sites.

Sámi history and local heritage

Koppsele is one of the oldest Sámi settlements in Malå; a Sámi settlement there is already mentioned on maps from 1671. Koppsele can be reached on foot or by boat. Local arrangements and conditions may affect boat trips. The marked Koppsele hiking trail passes through a nature reserve and is about two kilometres long.

Malå hembygdsgård has a total of 13 buildings on its grounds, most of them dating from the second half of the 19th century. It offers a local heritage museum, an exhibit about the history of Kniv-Eli, a museum about the 1960s and a traditional bakery hut. Visitor offerings may vary by season. The different buildings and exhibitions each highlight distinct aspects of local history.

Máláge Sámienseäbrrie / Malå sameförening also works to preserve, promote and develop Sámi cultural heritage in Malå. This includes activities, meeting places and cultural events for members and visitors. For travellers interested in Sámi culture, this work complements the historical perspective on Koppsele with cultural activities and opportunities to meet others.

Winter activities and ski trails

Tjamstanbackarna has four ski lifts and ten runs. As the facilities may change, check current operating information before your visit. The cross-country ski trails at Tjamstanvallen cater to both beginners and competitive skiers. They have tracks for both classic and skating styles; grooming is seasonal. The municipality’s winter trail network is built and maintained entirely by volunteers from Malå skoterklubb together with the villages.

Cycling, hiking and summer on the mountain

In summer, Tjamstanberget is suitable for mountain biking and downhill cycling, as well as hiking and trail running. Two cycling routes differ considerably in their approximate length: Broarna runt is a circular route of about 30 kilometres along the Malån. The cycle path between Almbo and Brännäs is about 13 kilometres long and passes through forest and natural landscapes. This gives you a choice between a longer circular route along the Malån and a shorter cycle path through forest and nature.

Fishing and swimming spots

There are seven fishing areas in the municipality. The Malåkortet fishing permit provides access to five fishing areas; its regulations may change seasonally. Check the applicable fishing rules and access arrangements before setting out. Local fishing guides can also be booked in Malå, for example for beginners or anglers who want to learn more about the waterways. Check a guide’s availability before your trip.

Svedjan’s seasonal swimming facilities include a small beach and a jetty that makes it easier to access the water for swimming. You can also rent a boat there and explore the lake; this local service is seasonal. Släppträsk swimming spot has a long sandy beach and shallow water. These spots offer different shoreline features for a stay by the water.

Getting around and travel

There are two staffed InfoPoints in Malå municipality. Visitors can get tips there about attractions and current events in the local area. Check what services are currently available before your trip. Possible travel options include train and bus, as well as flights to Skellefteå, Lycksele and Arvidsjaur. Check in advance which routes and timetables suit your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Malå, Adak, Nordmaling, Dorotea, Vindeln, Norsjö, Åsele, Sorsele.

Go to the main travel overview: Västerbotten.