Rafting in the Vindelälven – our adventure with Forsknäkkarna

Writer: Helena Bergström

Updated: October 2026 | Rafting in the Vindelälven River was one of the most exciting stops during our motorhome trip through Sweden in the summer of 2010. Together with Peter's son Billie and his cousin Pontus, we visited Forsknäkkarna in Ekorrsele. Here, rushing water, intense paddling and a real adrenaline rush awaited – but first Peter and Pontus got to try out a high-altitude course with a view of the river.

A quiet evening at Granö camping

On the way to the adventure we spent the night at Granö camping, between Lycksele and Umeå. After a long day of driving it was nice to arrive and park the camper on a large grassy area together with a few other campers, caravans and tents.

Here we had a quiet and peaceful evening before continuing towards the Vindelälven River. Sometimes that's exactly what you need during a motorhome trip: a simple overnight stay and time to unwind before the next day's adventures.

The old campsite in Granö has been developed into the nature tourism facility Granö Beckasin. Today, it offers, among other things, camping by the Ume River, cottages and accommodation in the bird's nest among the trees. Our overnight stay was long before the development that has made the place famous, and we have not visited today's facility.

The Forsknäckers in Ekorrsele on the Vindelälven

We had booked rafting with Forsknäckarna in Ekorrsele, northwest of Vindeln. When we arrived there had been a misunderstanding and the boats on the booked trip were already full.

It worked out well. We were offered our own ride later in the afternoon and were given lunch and the opportunity to test the high-altitude cable car during the wait, at no extra cost. A fair solution, we thought!

The facility was located in a wooded area by the river and the feeling of adventure set in even before we got near a rapid. For Peter and Pontus, the challenges began up in the trees.

High-altitude cable car with a view of the Vindelälven river

The high-altitude cable car ran high above the ground, with a dizzying view of the Vindelälven River. Peter and Pontus accepted the challenge without hesitation. I, Helena, am afraid of heights and preferred to stay on the ground with the camera.

Pontus started and made it through the course, even though it looked really difficult at times. It was exciting enough to follow him from below!

Then it was Peter's turn. He also managed the course, but both found it challenging. The view was of course part of the experience, although you probably had to concentrate quite a bit on where you put your feet.

The high-altitude cable car was part of our visit in 2010. Anyone who wants to try a similar activity today needs to check with the organizer what is offered.

After our adventure in the trees, we were hungry and had a delicious buffet lunch. Then it was time to pack up for what we had really come here for: rafting.

Rafting in the Vindelälven River – from overview to rapids

We first received instructions on land. Once we were in the boat, the briefing continued as we slowly glided closer to the rapids.

The noise grew louder and louder. I tried to listen to the guide and take in the instructions, but the closer we got, the more preoccupied I became with what lay ahead. This felt like a much bigger adventure than a quiet paddle!

An important part was working together and paddling as the guide gave instructions. Soon it was time to put the briefing into practice.

Water, waves and a real adrenaline rush

The waves felt huge as we entered the rapids. The water was crashing around us and we paddled for all we were worth. I don't think I've ever paddled so hard before!

For me, it was quite a challenge. I'm not the bravest when it comes to this kind of adventure, and my heart was beating fast. The others, above all, thought it was really fun.

But we made it. We didn't capsize, and when the water calmed down I was able to start to relax and actually enjoy the feeling of having made it through the rapids.

On a calmer section we also had the opportunity to go for a swim. What a contrast to the rushing water we had just paddled through! Afterwards I was both relieved and happy that I had come along. It was an experience that stuck in our bodies and that we still remember.

Do you want to try rafting in the Vindelälven River?

Forsknäckarna still offers guided rafting trips on the Vindelälven. The range includes different arrangements, so choose a trip that suits the age and conditions of the participants.

The popular Trollforsturen starts from the facility in Ekorrsele and goes through Övre and Nedre Trollforsen. The entire activity takes about three hours, including changing and transport. The age limit is 12 years when accompanied by an adult.

There is also a family tour that starts at Glassbonden in Selet, with an age limit of nine years when accompanied by an adult. The starting location and structure therefore differ between the tours.

The organizer provides equipment for the rafting trip and gives a safety briefing. When booking, check what you need to bring and what requirements apply to the tour you choose.

At the facility in Ekorrsele it is also possible to book accommodation, food, sauna and hot tub. Read more about current tours and booking on the Forsknäckarna website.

Continue with the campervan towards Umeå

After the rafting, we continued with the camper to Umeå. It was nice to land at a campsite and unwind after a day that had contained considerably more than we had expected.

A quiet evening in Granö had been followed by climbing in the trees, lunch by the river and a really fast-paced adventure on the water. How different days can be during a motorhome trip!

READ MORE: Things to do in Umeå – our best tips