Upplandsleden Stage 17 - Bålsta - Skokloster 19 km

Finally summer, sun and hiking! This stage of the former western Upplandsleden starts in Bålsta and goes north to Skoklosters castle. As the first part of the stage goes through Bålsta, we chose to start at Badplatsen just north of Yttergrans church. At first the trail goes around a giant gravel pit but then dives into the forest to follow the water. After the bridge at Varpsund you continue along the water, now on the left side.

It will eventually be time to pass the Skokloster peninsula, which gives a clear view in all directions, but boring hiking as the trail here follows some major roads. We ate our lunch on the lawn behind Häggeby church and the sun and the nice view made us sit for a while too long. After entering the settlement at Måttan, you can choose how to spend your last 7 kilometers as the trail splits. Either you can go north through the forest with the possibility of a detour to Nedre Sånka where there is a campsite. Or you can, as we did, go east towards the water. The latter route is not shown on the map, but it is well marked in the terrain. This part of the stage is interesting as the trail is quite hilly where it runs along the shoreline. In several places there are nice swimming spots, large flower meadows and often nice views. You can also see fresh beaver tracks.

Eventually we glimpse the large white castle in Skokloster which is well worth a visit. There are several cafes and restaurants for those who are hungry.

This independent stage of the Upplandsleden trail is easy to walk and varied near the water. Be sure to spend some time visiting the castle.