Get enchanted by the nature of Lapland while snowshoeing
At Ylläs, you can also enjoy the magical winter nature of Lapland by walking or snowshoeing. Follow the snowshoeing trails marked with blue sticks into the forest, where the snow-covered trees look like mythical creatures. On a vast swamp or the top of a fell, you can admire not only the calm and quiet landscape but also the pastel hues of the mid-winter sky. Ylläs offers snowshoeing trails in varied terrains for up to 50 kilometers!
Unforgettable experiences on winter trails
Snowshoeing can be done with exertion or enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Take breaks to listen to the sounds of the forest and the creaking of the snow beneath your shoes. Breathe in the world’s purest air. You can even snowshoe on frozen lakes and go ice fishing during your adventure. In the twilight of the evening, while snowshoeing, you might also have the opportunity to witness the enchanting beauty of the Northern Lights directly above you. The excellent trails ensure an unforgettable experience, and you don’t have to worry about getting lost. As your local knowledge grows, you can venture off the beaten path into the deep snow, allowing you to explore Lapland’s nature in an entirely new way.
When do you need snowshoes?
Snowshoes are a great option for a winter hike, as they provide support in soft snow where regular shoes would sink in, potentially up to your waist. Snowshoeing is easy and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. They attach to regular winter shoes, so all you need are snowshoes and poles. Snowshoes are a better choice than skis for beginners in winter sports, as well as in steep terrain or dense forests.
Walking without snowshoes
On winter trails, you can manage without snowshoes when the conditions are firm. It’s difficult to predict conditions, so you should monitor weather forecasts or try it out for yourself. When the ground is firm, you can walk along pleasantly varied routes throughout the national park, and enjoy a break with coffee and donut at the cozy wilderness café. Remember that the same winter trails are used by winter cyclists. If there has been a lot of new snow, the trails are soft, and in such conditions, using snowshoes is highly recommended.
You can also head out for a walking trip on Ylläs’ light traffic routes in the villages.
You may not walk on skiing trails/skiing tracks!
Rent the equipment
Ylläs has several rental shops where you can rent gear for your excursion. You can rent snowshoes for a few hours or even for the entire week if you wish.
With a guide, you’ll get more out of it
On guided tours, you don’t need to worry about the routes; the guide ensures that you get the best possible experience for that day. You also get to hear interesting stories about Lapland’s history and enchanting nature.
Buy the Ylläs winter outdoor map
Snowshoeing is also an eco-friendly way to move around. You can enjoy the beauty of Lapland and the fresh air with a clear conscience. By buying the Ylläs outdoor map, you support the maintenance of the trails and can see marked snowshoe routes and maintained winter trails. You can purchase the traditional paper map from local businesses or from the Yllästunturi Visitor Centre Kellokas tourist information.
Trail signs
Snowshoeing trails are marked with blue signs with blue snowshoer symbol. Then on route there is blue sticks.
Outdoor Etiquette
Please respect the hiking etiquette provided by Parks & Wildlife FInland on your day trips and longer hikes in the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park.
- Respect nature – leave no trace in it. Keep your pets on a leash.
- Mainly use marked trails and follow the rules for different modes of travel. Check the areas and times in which access is possibly restricted at your destination.
- Camp only where it is allowed. Do not wash the dishes or yourself directly in a water body. Follow the rules of wilderness huts.
- Light your campfire only where it is allowed and use a camping stove where possible. Do not light a fire when a forest or grass fire warning is in effect.
- Do not litter. Bring the trash back to your accommodation.