The magnificent landscapes of Ylläs offer cyclists diverse experiences year-round. The slopes of the fells, extensive forest roads, and technically challenging trails form a network that attracts both beginners and experienced mountain bikers. The fell area enchants summer cyclists with its stunning scenery and well-maintained routes. From AuroraCottage holiday cabin, it’s easy to explore the area’s diverse cycling routes, offering options for cyclists of all levels.
What are the most popular cycling routes in Ylläs during summer?
During the summer season, Ylläs’s most popular cycling routes offer unforgettable experiences in diverse terrain. The Ylläsjärvi Circuit is an absolute classic, suitable for most cyclists. This approximately 20-kilometer route circles the beautiful lake, offering spectacular views of the fell landscapes and pleasant rest stops.
The Kesänkijärvi route (17 km) is another popular option that runs through beautiful lake scenery and offers moderate challenges. There are several viewpoints along the route, and rest areas allow you to enjoy nature peacefully.
The Äkäslompolo village routes are an excellent choice when you want to combine scenery and services. These 10-15 kilometer routes run near the village, with cafes and other services along the way. They are mostly easy in terrain and well-suited for day trips.
The Ylläs-Pallas connecting route offers more experienced cyclists a great opportunity to explore the national park landscapes. This longer 55 km route requires good fitness but rewards the cyclist with the national park’s unique scenery and natural tranquility.
Are the cycling routes in Ylläs suitable for beginners and families?
Ylläs also offers excellent cycling routes suitable for beginners and families. The easiest routes are located near the villages and are surfaced with well-maintained gravel or asphalt. The Varrellamaja-Äkäslompolo route (5 km) is ideal for families as it is short, the terrain is flat, and there are resting places along the route.
For those cycling with children, we recommend the Ylläsjärvi family route, which is designed specifically with younger cyclists in mind. The 8-kilometer route has no steep climbs and mainly follows safe forest roads away from car traffic. Along the route, you’ll find playgrounds and rest areas suitable for eating packed lunches.
From a safety perspective, Ylläs’s beginner routes are clearly marked and have sufficient guidance along the way. Most easy routes also have maintenance services nearby, such as bicycle rentals and cafes. Beginners should start cycling on green-marked routes and progress to blue ones as their skills develop.
For children, we recommend the Äkäslompolo local route for 7-10 year-olds and the Ylläsjärvi circuit for older children and teens. Both offer a safe yet interesting cycling experience.
What kind of mountain bike routes in Ylläs offer challenges for more experienced cyclists?
For more experienced mountain bikers, Ylläs offers technically challenging and physically demanding routes. Pirunkuru is one of the area’s most legendary mountain bike routes, combining technical trail riding and significant elevation changes. The 18-kilometer route has several rocky sections, root systems, and tight turns that challenge even experienced cyclists.
The Ylläs-Levi connecting route (35 km) is a comprehensive challenge that runs between two fell centers. The route has a total elevation difference of over 600 meters and includes both technical descents and long, strenuous climbs. The middle section of the route in particular requires good bike control and endurance.
The Kahvikeidas extreme trails are popular among local enthusiasts. These unofficial routes offer 10-15 kilometer technical sections with jumps, tight turns, and steep drops. Proper protective equipment is recommended for these routes.
The Aakenustunturi slope enduro route offers adrenaline-hungry downhill cyclists high-speed experiences. The route’s approximately 500-meter elevation difference provides a long, technical descent that rewards skilled cyclists. Most routes for experienced riders require at least a full-suspension mountain bike and good technical skills.
Where can I find up-to-date maps and guides for Ylläs cycling routes?
Maps and guides for Ylläs cycling routes are available from several sources. Ylläs official digital maps can most easily be found on the Ylläs.fi website, where up-to-date route information and GPS tracks are available for download. The site also provides information about route difficulty classifications, lengths, and elevation differences.
We also recommend the OutdoorActive and TrailForks applications, which feature user-updated information about Ylläs routes. The applications also work offline, making them useful in areas without mobile network coverage.
Physical maps are available from the Ylläs Nature Center, located in Äkäslompolo. The Nature Center also provides current information about route conditions and possible closures. Additionally, most local bike rental shops can provide maps and route guides.
When planning your route, note that some routes may be temporarily closed due to maintenance work or natural conditions. Always check the current status of the route before departure, either at the Nature Center or through digital services. At AuroraCottage, we can also provide tips on suitable routes near your accommodation.
When is the best time to cycle in Ylläs and what equipment do I need?
The cycling season in Ylläs is at its best from early June to mid-September. In June, you can enjoy bright nights and fresh temperatures, which are ideal for long cycling trips. In July and August, temperatures are at their highest, but be prepared for rainy conditions as well. In September, the autumn colors transform the landscape into something spectacular, but nighttime temperatures can drop close to freezing.
Basic equipment for cycling trips in Ylläs includes weather-appropriate clothing, preferably using a layering system. A helmet is essential on all routes. For more technical trails, we also recommend knee pads and gloves. You should carry at least 1-2 liters of water depending on the length of the route, as drinking water is not available on all routes.
It’s also worth taking basic tools for minor repairs, a spare inner tube, a pump, and a first aid kit. A phone and power bank are important for safety. A GPS device or map application helps with navigation, as markings may be inadequate on some routes.
For beginners and families, a mountain or hybrid bike is usually sufficient, but on more demanding routes, a full-suspension mountain bike significantly increases riding comfort and safety. There are several bike rental shops in Ylläs where you can rent quality bikes for a day or week, so you don’t necessarily need to bring your own bike.
Key tips and recommendations for cycling in Ylläs
Ylläs’s cycling terrain offers unforgettable experiences year-round, and following a few key tips will make the experience even more enjoyable. For beginners, we recommend the Ylläsjärvi circuit or Äkäslompolo village routes, which offer appropriate challenges but are not too technical.
For intermediate cyclists, the Kesänkijärvi route and Varkaankuru offer suitable challenges and stunning scenery. For more experienced mountain bikers, we recommend Pirunkuru or the Ylläs-Levi connecting route, which challenge both technically and physically.
From a safety perspective, it’s important to always let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll return. Weather in the fells can change quickly, so be prepared for weather changes with appropriate equipment. Respect nature and other travelers – there are often hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts in the fell area.
AuroraCottage accommodation provides an excellent base for cycling experiences in Ylläs. From our cabins, you can easily access most cycling routes, and you can store your bike safely at the cabin. We are happy to help plan suitable routes and can provide tips about current route conditions. You can rent a bike in advance through us, so it will be waiting for you upon arrival.
Whether it’s a peaceful family bike ride or an adrenaline-filled downhill session, Ylläs’s diverse route network offers unforgettable experiences for cyclists of all levels. Book your accommodation at AuroraCottage and come experience the Lapland summer from the saddle!