Gråträsk – A cultural landscape with a long history

Gråträsk is a cultural landscape shaped by Sámi culture and settler culture. Many lakes surround the area, and its natural features also include beautiful berry-picking areas. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose from different focuses: archaeological and historical traces, activities on the water, or experiences that vary with the seasons.

Cultural Landscape and History

The Gråträsk treasure is the largest find of its kind discovered anywhere in Norrbotten. It was found in 1898 at Lake Tjautjer and consists of 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, the site and the time span offer different starting points for exploring the region’s history.

The Nasafjäll silver era is also part of the area’s history: from 1635 to 1659, Gråträsk was an important transshipment point on the transport route between the Nasafjäll silver mine and the port of Piteå. Today’s Gråträsk Chapel reflects another historical period. It was built in the 1930s as a free reconstruction of an old wooden chapel dating from the 1640s.

Part of the Gråträsk cultural landscape is included among Norrbotten County’s cultural heritage conservation areas, where it is listed as number 50. Both archaeological finds and the cultural landscape’s designation are therefore among the features that shape the character of the area.

Lakes, Water and Trails

Gråträsk is a swimming spot in Piteå Municipality; the area offers good opportunities for swimming and fishing. Fish targeted by anglers in Gråträsket and Metträsket include whitefish, perch, pike, grayling, trout and burbot. The many surrounding lakes give a stay here a strong connection to the water, while the berry-picking areas add another dimension to the area’s natural appeal.

Another 15-kilometre route is available for paddling: it runs via Trappån and Kilisån to the Byske River. The Trolleden trail runs through Gråträsket, Metträsket, Lilla Lappträsket and Pjeskerån to Lake Pjesker.

Between Metträsket and Tjautjer, the Fornminnesstig heritage trail can be used in every season. A birdwatching tower, also open year-round, is located between these lakes. If you are planning a trip outside the summer or winter seasons, you can consider these two year-round attractions.

Seasons and Trip Planning

Fäbodarna is an excursion destination on the north side of Gråträsket and is best visited in summer. In winter, snowmobile trails are available in Gråträsk, including Nasaleden; skiing is also an option. The seasonal activities mentioned are therefore distinct: Fäbodarna is best suited to a summer trip, while snowmobile trails and skiing are winter activities. When looking for a hotel in Gråträsk, you can use these seasonal interests to help plan your trip.

There is also a free-to-use track at the entrance to Gråträsk, off Route 373. From Långträsk, you can reach Gråträsk Chapel by following Route 373 towards Arvidsjaur for 26 kilometres, then turning towards Gråträsk. Check local road conditions before setting out.

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

Go to the main travel overview: Piteå.