Cross-country skiing with kids at Högbo — everything you need for a perfect winter weekend

Planning a ski trip with adults is one thing. With children, it's about three things: the right ski length, enough breaks, and something to look forward to after skiing. Högbo Ski Arena, 2 hours from Stockholm in Sandviken, ticks all three boxes.

The arena is an official Vasaloppet Center with trails for all levels, ski rental for children and adults, and a hotel with a restaurant right next door. The season starts early — the artificial snow trail opens in November — and continues well into spring.

Choose the right trail for your children's skill level

Högbo offers both classic cross-country ski trails and freestyle. For children who have never skied before, we recommend starting short: one lap on an easier trail is better than half a lap on a long one. The natural trail is free to use — perfect for a first attempt without needing to commit to a trail pass.

Trail maps are available to download here so you can plan your route at home. Also check the trail status here — it's updated every morning during the season.

Rent skis on-site — no transport needed

The Sports Center at Högbo rents out children's skis, waxless skis, and skate skis. Book in advance and your equipment will be waiting when you arrive.

•      Waxless cross-country skis — the best choice for children learning to ski

•      Children's skis in many sizes

•      Our staff will help you find the right size and binding

Trail pass: what's included and what does it cost?

The illuminated trail is subject to a fee and requires a trail pass. You can easily purchase it at the trail pass counter:

•      Weekdays 07:00–20:00

• Weekends 08:00–17:00

• The trail pass includes access to a sauna and shower with changing rooms near the trail start

Current prices are available at hogbobruk.se and here.

End the day right: food, sauna, and hotel

Högbo's restaurant prepares meals using locally sourced ingredients — a hearty dinner after an active day is a great promise to make to the kids in the morning. Book a table in advance on weekends.

Would you like to stay overnight? The weekend package includes accommodation and dinner. On day 2, you wake up right next to the trail start.

Artificial snow from November — book early

Högbo opens its artificial snow trail in November, well before the rest of the country. This makes the arena one of the few options in Central Sweden where you can book a ski weekend early in the season. Popular on weekends — book accommodation as early as possible.