Discover Gråträsk: lakes, history and nature

Gråträsk brings together an exceptional history of archaeological finds and a landscape shaped by Sámi and settler cultures. Lakes, fishing and swimming opportunities, as well as trails and winter activities, give the place many different facets. When planning your trip, you can first decide whether you are more interested in history, time by the water or activities at a particular time of year.

A treasure with a long history

The Gråträsk Treasure is the largest find of its kind discovered anywhere in Norrbotten. It was found in 1898 at Lake Tjautjer. It includes jewellery, coins, metal fittings and glass objects. The sacrificial site associated with the Gråträsk find was used over several generations; the objects date from 700 to 1300 AD. The find therefore cannot be reduced to a single moment: its timespan covers several centuries.

The cultural landscape also tells of different influences. Gråträsk is shaped by both Sámi culture and settler culture. Part of the landscape belongs to the cultural heritage conservation areas of Norrbotten County and is listed there as number 50. The present-day Gråträsk Chapel is part of the area’s architectural history: it was built in the 1930s as a free reconstruction of an old wooden chapel dating from the 1640s. Its construction date and its historical model should be clearly distinguished.

Another historical connection leads back to the silver era of Nasafjäll. From 1635 to 1659, Gråträsk was an important transshipment point on the transport route between the Nasafjäll silver mine and the port of Piteå. The place is thus also part of a wider regional transport history.

Lakes, fishing and paddling routes

Many beautiful lakes surround Gråträsk, and the area’s natural scenery also includes lovely berry-picking grounds. Gråträsk is a swimming spot in Piteå Municipality, with good opportunities for swimming and fishing. The sport fish listed for anglers in Gråträsket and Metträsket are whitefish, perch, pike, grayling, trout and burbot. These lake names provide a concrete guide when planning your days by the water.

A 15 km paddling route is described via Trappån and Kilisån to the Byske River. The Trolleden trail passes through Gråträsket, Metträsket, Lilla Lappträsket and Pjeskerån to Lake Pjesker. These two descriptions offer different geographical reference points for planning; the 15 km refers to the paddling route via Trappån and Kilisån.

Trails and activities throughout the year

You can use the Fornminnesstig trail between Metträsket and Tjautjer at any time of year. There is also a birdwatching tower between these lakes, which can be used year-round. This gives you two specific options for a trip outside summer, described independently of the seasonal excursions.

In summer, Fäbodarna can be planned as an excursion destination; that is the best time to visit. Fäbodarna lies on the north side of Gråträsket. In winter, snowmobile trails are available, including Nasaleden, and skiing is also possible. The focus therefore changes with the season: summer is particularly suited to Fäbodarna, while snowmobile trails and skiing are among the activities mentioned for winter.

To reach Gråträsk Chapel, drive from Långträsk on Route 373: follow it for 26 km towards Arvidsjaur, then turn towards Gråträsk. Check local road conditions before setting out. The directions provide a specific starting point for visiting the chapel, while the lakes, trails and seasonal activities offer other ideas for your plans.

Find a holiday rental to suit your travel dates

When looking for a holiday rental, you can base your decision first on your preferred travel dates and planned experiences. For a summer stay, Fäbodarna and the opportunities by the water are natural points of interest; trails and the birdwatching tower, which can be used year-round, offer other options. In winter, snowmobile trails and skiing add to the choices. Those interested in cultural history can focus on the Gråträsk Treasure, the chapel and the area’s role during the Nasafjäll silver era.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Altersbruk, Lillpite, Sikfors, Storsund, Rosvik, Koler, Norrfjärden, Piteå.

Go to the main travel overview: Piteå.