Exploring Sweden’s Forests with Bijou: A Family Hike in Hovfjället

Forest paths beneath her paws, rocky trails and wide-open views: Bijou takes you along to the Hovfjället Nature Reserve in Sweden. In the video, you’ll join her and her family on a hike where the goal isn’t to finish quickly – it’s to enjoy the journey together.

Bijou explores the trails while the family stops to take in the scenery, read information boards and enjoy a few breaks. BARK BATTLES makes an appearance, too. A small shared goal can add extra motivation to an outing without turning every hike into a race.

What Makes Hovfjället Special?

The nature reserve is in Värmland, north of Torsby. Old forests, rocky sections, small wetlands and viewpoints make the scenery change as you walk. There are several marked routes, from the 3.7-kilometre Torprundan to more demanding hikes of 8, 9 or 12 kilometres.

Good to know: Even the shorter Torprundan is not a flat, easy stroll throughout. Some sections are steep and rocky, and the ground can be wet after rain. Choose a route that suits both you and your dog, taking fitness, weather and footing into account. Leave plenty of time for breaks.

BARK BATTLES: An Extra Goal Along the Way

BARK BATTLES and CROSSDOG also appear in the video. BARK BATTLES offers activities and challenges that people can do with their dogs wherever they are – including in the forest or on holiday. Depending on the format, participants can record their distance or other results. The focus is on moving together and staying motivated.

You don’t need a challenge to make your next hike more exciting, though. Pick a small goal to share: reach a viewpoint, try a new trail or stop somewhere to explore your surroundings. For your dog, the smells and discoveries along the way may already be adventure enough.

Tips for Hiking with Your Dog

Choose a route that suits your dog. Distance alone does not tell you how demanding a hike will be. Rocks, roots, climbs and wet ground can make even a short trail challenging. If you don’t know the area, start with a shorter route.

Bring drinking water and a bowl. Don’t count on finding a suitable water source along the way. Regular water breaks are especially useful on warm days and longer hikes.

Make time for sniffing. A hike with your dog does not have to follow the same pace as a walk without them. Plan stops, let your dog take in the surroundings and watch for signs that they need a break.

Keep an eye on the route and the weather. Save your route before setting off, and bring clothing and footwear suited to changing conditions. Trails in Hovfjället can be rocky or wet after rain.

Protect the natural environment. Dogs must be kept on a lead in the Hovfjället Nature Reserve. Take your rubbish home, give wildlife space and be considerate of other visitors. Check the current rules before visiting any protected area.

Check your dog after the hike. Take a quick look at their paws and coat, especially if you have walked over rough ground or through dense vegetation. Then offer water and a quiet place to rest.

What to Pack for Your Hike

• Water for you and your dog, plus a collapsible bowl
• A lead and a well-fitting harness
• Small snacks and enough food for the people in your group
• Poop bags and a bag for other rubbish
• A saved route or map
• Clothing suited to the weather
• Important information about your dog in case you need help along the way

In PetConnect+, you can keep your dog’s health information and important documents together in one place. When you travel, it helps to have details of medications, allergies or existing conditions close at hand. Before hiking abroad, also find out where you can get veterinary help locally.

Watch Bijou’s Adventure

What is a family hike with a dog in Hovfjället really like? Bijou shows you – with forest trails, breaks, discoveries and BARK BATTLES along the way.