The Trek
Choose between a 2-day trek (around 32km, with one night in the wilderness) or a 3-day trek (around 48km, with two wilderness nights). Both routes cross the fells of Aakenustunturi and Yllästunturi in Ylläs National Park, one of Finland's most beautiful protected wilderness areas. Groups are capped at 6 adults, with fixed departure dates through the season.
Where You Sleep
The first and last nights are spent in a large, fully-equipped wooden cottage just 500m from the national park, with shared twin bedrooms, a kitchen, laundry facilities and a sauna. On the trek itself, you camp in the wilderness next to a wooden hut refuge — inside the hut if it's free, or in winter tents with sleeping bags and mattresses provided. Camp nights also bring a chance to spot the Northern Lights, conditions permitting.
Getting There
The trek departs from the cottage in Lainio, at the edge of Yllästunturi National Park, where the group gathers the evening before setting off. The nearest airport is Kittilä (about 25 minutes away) or Rovaniemi (about 2 hours); the nearest train stations are Kolari (about 30 minutes) or Rovaniemi (about 2h15). Transfers to and from the cottage can be arranged for an extra fee.
Equipment & Briefing
On the first evening, your guide runs a briefing covering the route, safety and equipment before the group sets out together. Each participant is provided with Altai trekking skis and poles, plus an expedition sleigh shared between every two participants — traditional Lappish backcountry skis built to glide on deep snow both uphill and down. Bring your own broken-in winter hiking boots to fit the ski bindings.
Food
Meals are included from the first evening at the cottage through the last morning, prepared by your guide from typical Nordic hiking fare, with dietary restrictions accommodated where possible. Snacks are provided during the trek, and a supermarket stop can be arranged the day before departure if you'd like to bring extras.
- Starting point: Cottage in Lainio, edge of Yllästunturi National Park
- Duration: 2-3 days
