The nature of Ylläs offers magnificent opportunities to enjoy outdoor dining and grilled delicacies safely in designated areas. Moments spent by the fire are an unforgettable experience for many visitors to Lapland, but safety and respect for nature always come first. In this comprehensive guide, we go through the best official grilling spots, safety instructions, and tips for a successful nature experience in Ylläs. The following guidelines will help you enjoy nature responsibly while staying in the area.
Where can you safely grill in the Ylläs nature?
The Ylläs area has several official and safe fire-making sites specifically designed for hikers and grillers. Official fire-making sites can be found in both the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park and the Ylläs tourist center areas.
In the Äkäslompolo area, you’ll find popular campfire sites such as the Kesänkijärvi lean-to shelter, which offers beautiful views of the lake. On the Ylläsjärvi side, you can enjoy grilling at the Kahvikeidas lean-to shelter or at Aurinkotuva. The Kotamäki hut is also an excellent place to enjoy snacks in the midst of nature.
The national park area has several marked fire-making sites, such as:
- Latvamaja lean-to
- Navettalahti fire-making site
- Kellostapuli lean-to
- Pyhäjärvi wilderness hut and its campfire site
- Kiiruna lean-to
Please remember that in the national park area, there are special rules allowing fires only in designated places. Each official campfire site has structures for safe fire-making and often provides firewood as well.
What are the rules and restrictions for grilling in the Ylläs area?
There are several important rules and restrictions related to grilling in the Ylläs area that every hiker should be aware of. Everyman’s rights do not include making fires in nature without the landowner’s permission. This is one of the most commonly misunderstood rules.
During forest fire warnings, open fires are always prohibited, even at official fire-making sites. Always check the current forest fire warning status on the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s website or mobile application before planning to grill. The use of disposable grills is considered equivalent to making an open fire, so the same restrictions apply.
In the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, the rules are stricter than outside the park:
- Fire-making is allowed only at marked fire-making sites
- The use of camping stoves is permitted even during forest fire warnings
- Collecting trees, branches, or other vegetation is prohibited
- Please use the available firewood sparingly
Outside the national park, permission from the landowner is always required for making fires. Municipal recreational areas also have their own rules, which should be checked separately.
What safety tips should be considered when grilling in the Ylläs nature?
The foundation of safe grilling is careful preparation and consideration of the environment. Always follow these basic guidelines:
- Choose an official fire-making site with a fireplace made of stone or metal
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Bring enough water to extinguish the fire
- Check the wind direction and strength – strong wind can spread sparks
- Keep flammable materials at a safe distance from the fire
- Extinguish the fire thoroughly with water and ensure no embers remain
In the variable weather conditions of Ylläs, it’s important to be prepared for sudden changes. Summer thunderstorms can arrive quickly, so follow weather forecasts. In winter, snow conditions can affect the accessibility and usability of fire-making sites.
If you’re staying in our cottages, we can provide current tips for safe grilling and inform you about the nearest suitable locations. At AuroraCottage, safety is our top priority, and we want to ensure our guests have a successful and safe nature experience.
When is the best time to grill in the Ylläs nature?
The seasons in Ylläs offer varied experiences for outdoor grilling. Late winter and spring (March-April) are popular times for snow and fireside dining, as the days are already long and sunny, but the forest fire risk is still low.
During summer (June-August), forest fire warnings, which are most common during dry periods, must be taken into account when grilling. On the other hand, grilling during midsummer’s nightless night can be a truly special experience, with the sun shining throughout the night.
Autumn (September-October) offers stunning colors during the fall foliage season, and by then the forest fire risk is usually lower. During winter (November-February), many fire-making sites are less crowded, but the amount of snow can make some locations challenging to access.
During peak seasons, such as ski vacation weeks and Easter, the most popular fire sites can be quite crowded. We recommend timing your trip either early in the morning or later in the afternoon when you can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.
What equipment do I need for safe grilling in the Ylläs nature?
Essential basic equipment for successful and safe nature grilling in Ylläs includes:
- Water for extinguishing (at least 2-3 liters)
- Fire-making tools (matches/lighter, birch bark/fire starter)
- Grilling utensils (tongs, spatulas)
- Portable stoves or grills (if not using fixed campfire sites)
- Garbage bag for carrying waste out of nature
- Drinking water and hand sanitizer
- Warm spare clothing (Lapland weather can change quickly)
When choosing between a portable grill and a campfire, consider that a camping stove is often the safest option, as its use is allowed even during forest fire warnings. If you opt for a campfire, always use official fire-making sites and use the available firewood sparingly.
Remember that in Lapland’s nature, all trash must be carried out with you. Even biodegradable waste doesn’t belong in nature, as it can attract animals and disrupt the natural balance. This way, we respect nature and ensure it remains clean for future hikers as well.
Key rules to remember for safe grilling in Ylläs
We’ve compiled the most important guidelines that will allow you to enjoy a safe grilling experience in the beautiful nature of Ylläs:
- Only use official fire-making sites and always check current forest fire warnings
- Bring enough water to extinguish the fire and ensure the fire is completely out before leaving
- Respect nature and other hikers – take your trash with you and leave the fire-making site clean
- Be prepared for weather changes with adequate clothing and equipment
- Plan your trip carefully – know where you’re going and share your plans with others
At AuroraCottage, it’s important to us that our guests can enjoy the nature of Ylläs safely and responsibly. We are happy to answer your questions about the area’s fire-making sites and provide current tips for grilling. The location of our cottages offers easy access to many popular fire-making sites, making the nature experience even more enjoyable.
Remember that respect for nature is the foundation of all activities in Lapland’s landscapes. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a unique experience in the beautiful scenery of Ylläs safely while ensuring that future generations will also be able to experience the beauty of Lapland’s nature.