Lapland’s hiking terrains offer unforgettable experiences in summer, and the magnificent fell landscapes of Ylläs are a perfect choice for hikers. The secret to a successful hiking trip lies in careful planning and proper equipment. During the summer season, the area of Ylläs’s seven fells invites you to enjoy the peace of nature, fresh air, and breathtaking scenery. In this comprehensive guide, we go through all the necessary information to ensure your fell trip goes smoothly and safely. From choosing the right equipment to the best routes and accommodation options – with this information, hiking in the magnificent landscapes of Ylläs will certainly be a success.
What equipment do I need for a summer hike in Ylläs?
The foundation of a successful fell trip is appropriate equipment that meets the varying conditions of Lapland. Layering is key for all summer hikes in the north. For the base layer, it’s best to choose moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or technical underwear. For the middle layer, fleece or a light wool sweater works well, and the outermost layer should be waterproof and windproof.
Footwear selection is particularly important. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are essential on rocky fell trails. For hiking socks, choose quality wool socks that protect against blisters and keep feet warm even when wet.
Essential hiking equipment includes:
- Waterproof backpack (30-40 liters for day trips, 50-70 liters for longer hikes)
- Hiking poles, which make walking easier especially on steep ascents and descents
- Enough drinking water and water purification tablets
- Energy-rich and lightweight snacks
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV radiation is strong in fell areas)
- Mosquito repellent (especially in June-July)
Essential safety equipment includes a first aid kit, headlamp, fire-starting tools, multi-tool, and map with compass, even if your smartphone GPS works. In Lapland’s fell conditions, weather can change rapidly, so it’s also advisable to pack an emergency blanket and whistle for emergencies.
What are the best hiking routes in Ylläs during summer?
The Ylläs area offers diverse hiking routes for trekkers of all fitness levels. Summer opens access to paths that are inaccessible in winter and allows you to experience the beauty of the fells in a new way.
For beginners and families, the circular route around Lake Kesänki (4 km) is excellent, offering easy paths and beautiful lake views. The Pirunkuru nature trail (7 km) is also a popular day trip destination, where you can admire a magnificent gorge and lush vegetation.
For intermediate hikers, we recommend the Ylläs-Levi route (about 29 km), which runs between two fell resorts and rewards with magnificent views. The route can also be done in sections, as there are car connections along the way.
For more experienced hikers, Ylläs offers more challenging options:
- Ascending Ylläs from Äkäslompolo (12 km), which rises to 719 meters above sea level
- The long routes of Pallas-Ylläs National Park, which allow for multi-day hikes
- The Varkaankuru-Tahkokuru trek (14 km), which offers varied terrain and beautiful gorge formations
All routes are well-marked, but a map and compass are still essential equipment. Along the routes, there are rest areas, lean-to shelters, and campfire sites where you can enjoy snacks amid magnificent scenery.
When is the best time for a summer hike in Ylläs?
The summer hiking season in Ylläs typically begins in mid-June, when snow has melted even from the higher fell areas. June and July are bright times thanks to the midnight sun, which allows hiking at any time of day.
Weather conditions vary by month as follows:
June: Temperatures 10-20°C during the day, nights can be cool (+5°C). The midnight sun creates a magical atmosphere, but mosquitoes can be abundant, especially toward the end of the month.
July: The warmest month, with typical daytime temperatures of 15-25°C. July has the most mosquitoes and black flies, but nature is also at its most lush, and berries begin to ripen.
August: Daytime temperatures 10-20°C, nights can already be cool. Mosquitoes decrease significantly, and the first signs of autumn colors begin to appear in the fell landscape toward the end of the month. Berries and mushrooms are at their best.
September: Autumn color season, daytime temperatures 5-15°C. Nights may see frost. Hardly any mosquitoes, and the fells glow in magnificent colors. However, weather conditions can be more unpredictable.
The optimal time for hiking is August, when there are fewer mosquitoes, but temperatures are still pleasant. If you’re interested in the autumn color display, early September is the perfect time for hiking in Ylläs.
How do I prepare for weather conditions on a summer hike in Ylläs?
In Lapland’s fell areas, weather can vary quickly and surprisingly – a sunny day can turn windy and rainy in an instant. The Ylläs fells create their own microclimates, and especially when ascending higher up the fell, wind strength increases and temperature drops significantly.
Layering is the best way to prepare for varying conditions:
- Base layer: moisture-wicking layer (merino wool or synthetic)
- Middle layer: insulating layer (fleece or wool)
- Outer layer: protective layer (waterproof and windproof jacket and pants)
- Additional accessories: hat, gloves, and scarf even in summer
You should always have rain gear in your backpack, even if the weather is sunny when you set out. A windproof and waterproof jacket is invaluable when the wind picks up or it starts to rain in the fells.
Weather forecasts should be closely monitored before hiking and during the trip if possible. Local weather services often provide more accurate information about fell area weather than general weather services. From our cottage, you can check the local weather forecast before heading out.
If the weather turns really bad, be prepared to change your plans or even abort the hike. Thunder is a particular risk in the fells, and you should avoid high places in open fell areas when a thunderstorm approaches.
What accommodation options are there for hikes in Ylläs?
There are many different accommodation options for hikers in the Ylläs area, depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Staying in the midst of nature or having a comfortable cottage as a base both offer their own unique experiences.
Wilderness huts and lean-to shelters are traditional options for hikers, and there are several such in the Pallas-Ylläs National Park area. They serve as free resting and overnight places. The most popular ones are Latvamaja wilderness hut, Kahvikeidas lean-to, and Kotamaja wilderness hut. These accommodations follow the “first come, first served” principle, so especially during peak season, be prepared that the huts may be full.
Camping is allowed in designated camping areas within the national park, found in places like Kesänki and Kahvikeidas areas. When camping, it’s important to follow hiking etiquette and leave the area clean for the next visitor.
AuroraCottage accommodation offers an excellent base for hikes. From our cottages, it’s easy to set out on day trips to different parts of the Ylläs fell area, and after a hike, you can enjoy amenities such as a sauna and a proper kitchen. Cottage accommodation is a particularly good option for families and those who want to combine outdoor activities with comfort.
An advantage of cottage accommodation is also the possibility to safely store extra equipment and pack only what you need for a day trip. This significantly reduces the load you need to carry.
Key tips for summer hiking in Ylläs
Fell hiking in Ylläs offers unforgettable experiences, but careful preparation is the key to a successful trip. Here we summarize the most important tips for summer hiking.
The right choice of equipment ensures a comfortable and safe trip. Investing in good footwear, layered clothing, and a quality backpack pays off. Also remember a map, compass, and enough water, even if you’re only doing a short day trip.
When planning routes, consider your own fitness level and hiking experience. Start with shorter routes and gradually move on to more demanding ones. Divide daily distances so that there’s also time to enjoy nature and rest.
Taking care of safety is of paramount importance. Always tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll return. Bring a phone, keep it warm, and save the battery. A first aid kit is an essential item on every hike.
From AuroraCottage cottages, you can enjoy both hiking experiences and comfortable accommodation. We offer tips for the best routes and current conditions, and in our cottages, you can relax after a day of hiking. The warmth of a sauna does wonders for tired limbs!
Also remember to respect nature – walk on marked paths, don’t disturb animals, and take your trash with you when you leave. This way we ensure that Ylläs’s magnificent nature remains clean for future hikers as well.
A hiking trip in the magnificent landscapes of Ylläs is an experience that will surely reward you. After careful preparation, you can focus on enjoying the peace of Lapland’s nature, clean air, and breathtaking fell views.