5. Bålsta – Ekilla, 5 kilometres

Suitable for: A good section for those who want to hike with children, or those who want a shorter hike.

Distance: 5 kilometres Start: Bålsta station End: The Ekillaåsen nature reserve Facilities: Fireplace and benches, etc. by Kvarnkojan in the Granåsen nature reserve, swimming spot, fireplaces, and toilet by the Ekillaåsen nature reserve Terrain: Exercise trails, tarmac, somewhat hilly paths Nature type: Single family homes, steep ridges, forests, and lake banks

This hike along the first part of stretch 29 will take you from Bålsta station through two nature reserves. In the first reserve, Granåsen, you’ll go high up and get a view across Lake Mälaren. Hidden gem Kvarnkojan, with spots for breaks and barbecues, is also there. In the nature reserve of Ekillaåsen, where this route suggestion ends, you’ll find a swimming spot. A bit further on is the Ekilla bus stop, from where you can get the bus back to Bålsta.

Part of the Upplandsleden Trail: Section 29

Find it The route begins at Bålsta train station.

By car: From E18, turn towards Bålsta C station, and follow signs towards ‘C’, and then the train station (tågstation). By bus or train: Take a train or bus to Bålsta station. The trail starts at the parking area on the northern side of the train tracks. At the end, there is bus stop Ekilla, along Enköpingsvägen, just after the Ekillaåsen nature reserve.