Dalslands kanotled is one of Europe’s best-known canoe areas – a wide net of linked lakes in the landscape Dalsland, around Bengtsfors and Mellerud. Here you paddle from lake to lake with short portages in between, and you can put together anything from a weekend to a week-long trip on quiet water.
Paddling in the area
The water is mainly still lake water, which makes the area suitable even for less experienced paddlers – but the distances are large, so plan for your own ability. A classic sight along the way is the aqueduct in Håverud, where the canal crosses the rapid in a cast trough. Around the lakes there are plenty of scenic rest spots.
The area is a lake system rather than a single continuous stretch. Choose start and finish by day stage, portage and how you solve the transport back. In Dalslands kanal and the adjoining lakes, weather, locks and local rules can affect the plan.
Good to know
Respect allemansrätten and landowners at rests and when camping. Bring a map – the lake system is large. Rent a canoe locally (see rentals) and check current rules and any fees for the route before you go. See also our canoe guide.