Hiking in Glaskogen

This weekend I spent inside a big lecture hall. I was attending The Norwegian Festival of Nature Photography, both as a photographer, and also working as a volunteer with marketing and PR. We had some local photographers and also international names like Christian Ziegler, Sandra Bartocha and Cindy Jeannon. The days were filled with massive impressions, and the need to go outdoors was growing the whole weekend. To be honest I got kind of fed up with all the vast landscapes. Enough with the steep mountains and auroras. The talks that inspired me the most were actually the ones who encouraged me to get out there, enjoy the outdoors and enjoy life. So come Monday, I packed my gear, and headed out to the family farm in Swedish Glaskogen.

The weather forecast for Tuesday was really great so I got up at 5.15 AM to watch the sunrise. Then I had breakfast, and geared up for a hike.

Then off I went, down the road.

Paths are easy to find in Glaskogen because of their red markings. Also they are well used by hikers, so you just have to follow the trail.

Part of our property in Glaskogen is a small lake called Bastutjärn. It`s a shallow and beautiful and shielded from the wind, and it is always nice and warm. In the winter we go ice-fishing here.

Then I enter the really old part of these woods. I think this is my favorite tree, about 100 years old! Every time I pass it I put my arms around it and feel the force. I know it sounds weird, but I really like the tactile bark and the smell of the living forest. This particular tree is protected, so I guess it will stand tall when I am no longer. That`s a nice thought don`t you think?

The wood is full of old roots and homes for ants. I love the shapes and colors.

I came across a little stream where the lovely light peered through and made the water sparkle and the green moss glow.

Then I found this fallen tree that actually made me a bit seasick. Can you feel it?

Coming out of the woods I discovered an old moosetrap. Luckily this type of hunt is now prohibited.

After 2 hours in the woods I was out on the dirt road again and headed home. By now I was kind of sweaty but happy.

I took a quick shower before I made myself a meal suited for cowboys. After lunch I put sunblock on my nose and took a nap outside with moss as my bed. Feeling truly blessed for having all this wilderness within reach. You should come visit, and I`ll show you?