The Stockholm region has experienced a relatively mild winter with limited snowfall, delaying the opening of several artificial snow facilities. However, a period of sub-zero temperatures, predicted to reach as low as -10°C, is expected over the weekend and into Monday, offering ideal conditions for snow production. This cold snap brings promising news for eager skiers anticipating the opening of local ski trails.
Täby’s artificial snow track, after a temporary closure for snow replenishment, aims to reopen Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. Initially, an 800-meter section will be available, with the possibility of opening parts of the second stage, extending the track further, if the cold weather persists. Similarly, Lida’s 700-meter artificial snow track in Botkyrka, also temporarily closed for maintenance, is scheduled to reopen on Saturday, offering two classic tracks and a skating lane. Saltsjöbaden’s ski arena, operating its four snow cannons at full capacity, expects significant snow production during the upcoming week. While a previously opened track might be ready by the weekend, skiers are advised to monitor their website for updates. Meanwhile, Sundbyberg’s artificial snow track is already prepared and open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Stockholm’s city-operated cross-country ski tracks at Gärdet, Stadion, and Ågesta require approximately ten days of consistently cold temperatures for snow production. Therefore, skiing enthusiasts will need to exercise further patience. While snowmaking is underway, no firm opening dates have been set, as success depends on sustained cold and efficient snow production. Optimistically, these facilities could open as early as next week if conditions remain favorable.
Rudan’s artificial snow track in Haninge, managed by IKJ Haninge, also anticipates a late next week opening. While snow production is ongoing, reaching sufficient coverage for opening will likely take until the following weekend. This general trend of next-week openings applies to several locations in the greater Stockholm area, all dependent on sustained cold temperatures for effective snowmaking.
For downhill skiers, the opening of Hammarbybacken has also been delayed due to the mild weather. However, snow production is currently underway and expected to continue until Sunday night. The tentative opening date is set for January 10th, pending successful snowmaking. Ekebyhovsbacken on Ekerö, currently closed for snow production, has no confirmed reopening date yet, advising visitors to check their website for updates. Flottsbrobacken in Huddinge offers a limited opening window from January 1st to 6th, operating from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Beyond the immediate Stockholm vicinity, skiers seeking immediate gratification can venture further afield. The Engelbrektsspåret in Norberg, Västmanland County, boasts a 10-kilometer artificial snow track, freshly groomed for both skate and classic skiing as of Thursday. Högbo bruk in Sandviken, Gävleborg County, also offers open tracks for both styles. Finally, Rännkölen in Älvdalen, Dalarna County, provides another open option for eager skiers, as reported by Skidspår.se. These more distant locations offer immediate skiing opportunities while those closer to Stockholm await sufficient snow cover.
