One of Europe's most beautiful waterways
Here you'll find freedom
Enjoy 253 kilometers of navigable waterways through the vast, scenic lake system that makes up the Dalsland Canal, stretching from Köpmannebro in the south to Östervallsskog in the north. Experience crystal-clear lakes, gently meandering river stretches, idyllic canal sections, and relaxing accommodations as close to the water as you can get.
Only 12 kilometers of the canal has been dug or blasted; the rest is a natural lake system where you can travel freely, far from congestion.
Total length
253 km
Trenched canal
12 km
Drop height
66 m
Number of locks
31 pcs
Welcome to the canal
Buy your lock tickets here and head out on the canal with a sense of accomplishment.
Before your trip on the Dalsland Canal
Here you will find practical information about locks, routes and accommodation. The Dalsland Canal is best experienced without stress, with time for nature, tranquility and the beautiful views along the way.
Buy a canal card and get more for your money
Experience the entire Dalsland Canal with a single pass. Simpler, more flexible, and better value for money. Perfect for those who want to take spontaneous trips, discover new places, or simply enjoy passing through the locks whenever it suits you.
The Large Canal Card
All season, unlimited locks. The Grand Canal Card gives you the freedom to enjoy the Dalsland Canal time and time again.
To the Large Canal Card
The Little Canal Card
Seven days, unlimited locks. The Little Canal Card gives you the freedom to explore the Dalsland Canal at your own pace.
To the Small Canal Card
The clip card
With the multi-use pass, you get ten lock passages to use throughout the boating season. The pass is scanned once at each lock station.
Go to the multi-use pass
Prices & tickets
Not sure which card is right for you, or want to see more prices? Here you can find complete information on tickets and fees.
To Fares & tickets
Paddling in Dalsland Nordmarken
The Dalsland Nordmarken lake system stretches across the border region between Dalsland, southern Värmland, and Norway. Here you will find wild forests, clear water, and one of Europe's most popular areas for canoeing.
A classic canal journey
Experience the Dalsland Canal by tour boat
The summer timetable for June 8–August 22 has now been published. If you want to experience the Dalsland Canal by tour boat, travel with Dalslands Kanaltrafik, which operates the canal with M/S Storholmen and M/S Dalslandia.
Accommodation
Book a waterfront cottage in a historic setting
Our lock keeper's cottages are beautifully located by the water, in the middle of a historic lock environment where nature surrounds you in all directions. Here you get a peaceful stay for both adventurous excursions and quiet moments with loved ones.
Dalsland & Värmland
One channel. Two landscapes.
The Dalsland Canal connects Dalsland and Värmland via one of Europe's most beautiful waterways. Here, lakes, forests, and small communities come together in a coherent system that makes it easy to discover two landscapes on the same trip.
Active vacation
An unforgettable nature
The Dalsland Canal is a destination for those who want to experience true wilderness. The unique lake system stretches through magnificent landscapes with deep forests, sparkling lakes and sweeping views. Here you can hike along wonderful trails, paddle through still waters or take your bike out to explore one of Sweden's most varied wilderness areas. Whatever the season, Dalsland's canal offers nature experiences that linger for a long time.
Travel suggestions & inspiration
More to experience
Whether you're looking for a sun-soaked stay where every stop offers new encounters, good food and a piece of Swedish industrial history, or you want to explore the countryside in the later months of the year, there's something for you.
In the borderland between Dalsland, southern Värmland and eastern Norway, the Dalsland Nordmarken lake system spreads out. Here the water is often drinkable, the people few and the nature magnificent.
History
The place that changed everything
The canal is not just a passage for water. It is a passage through time, technology and vision. On your journey through the canal, you travel not only through unique landscapes, but also through 300 years of history, dreams and visions. It reminds us that the landscape does not limit creativity, but rather can enhance it. It was completed in the summer of 1868. One of Europe's most beautiful waterways.
Work with us!
Do you like being outdoors, meeting people from all over the world and taking responsibility? Then this is for you.
Questions and answers
Things many people wonder about
Here we have compiled answers to questions that often arise before a visit along the Dalsland Canal. Perhaps the answer you are looking for is already among them.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Meet Kai, the channel's own digital channel guide! Here you can get answers directly in the chat at the bottom right of the page. And in the unlikely event that Kai doesn't have the answer, you can always reach us via our contact page.