Skurugata and Skuruhatt

Skurugata Nature Reserve is a spectacular natural experience just outside Eksjö, where you hike through a dramatic rock fissure often described as one of southern Sweden’s most peculiar natural phenomena. The gorge is about 800 metres long and consists of a fault crack with rock walls that in places rise up to around 35 metres high and a width that varies between 7 and 24 metres. The bedrock is largely made up of grey and chocolate‑brown porphyry with elements of quartz and red feldspar, giving the place a raw and impressive character. The cool, humid environment in the fissure allows special moss species to thrive here, including some usually only found in alpine areas.

Hiking through Skurugata requires sturdy shoes and some climbing over boulders and fallen trees, making it a true adventure for nature lovers. It’s also cooler down in the gorge, so bringing an extra layer is a good idea. Along the trail you’ll also find Skurukälla, a spring with crystal‑clear water where you can quench your thirst during the hike. The nature reserve is well marked with paths and rest areas, and from the parking area there are picnic tables and toilets. Exploring the whole area through the gorge and back takes about an hour, but with so much to see along the way it’s worth taking your time.