Hiking Kesänkitunturi and the pirunkurun ponnistus trail
One of the most popular hiking routes in the Ylläs area takes you to the top of Kesänkitunturi via Pirunkuru. Kesänkitunturi rises to 517 metres above the crystal-clear Lake Kesänkijärvi. On the other side of the lake, the rugged slopes of Kellostapuli dominate the landscape, with Yllästunturi rising behind them.
The route around Kesänkitunturi, known as Pirunkurun Ponnistus, is approximately 8 kilometres long. It is especially popular in summer and autumn, but the scenery is particularly beautiful in early winter, when snow covers the landscape and the low sun creates a magical atmosphere. Allow around three hours for the hike, or approximately two hours if you complete the route at a relaxed trail-running pace.
Pirunkurun Ponnistus offers breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable hiking experience. You can easily leave your car at the Kesänkijärvi parking area (address: Sahatie, Kolari). The route starts near the Kesänginkeidas ski café, from where the trail leads towards Pirunkuru.
The route is moderately challenging, but the beautiful scenery and the sunrise behind Yllästunturi make the effort worthwhile. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy magnificent views over Lake Kesänkijärvi and the surrounding fells.
Along the way, Tahkokuru hut provides a nice place to take a break and enjoy your snacks before continuing the hike. This route is a great choice for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Ylläs at its best.
Kuertunturi and admiring the sunset
Kuertunturi is the easiest of the Ylläs fells to reach and offers a great opportunity to enjoy beautiful fell scenery. In winter, the Kuertunturi trail is also suitable for snowshoeing and leads through snow-covered forests towards the summit. The terrain is varied, with steeper climbs, flatter forest sections and an atmospheric ravine lined with snow-covered spruce trees. You can start the hike from the Lompolontie trailhead, which is approximately 2 kilometres from the summit, or from Velhon Kota, which is about 3 kilometres from the summit. The shorter route is also a good option for families.
On a clear day, the summit of Kuertunturi offers magnificent 360-degree views over the village of Äkäslompolo, the surrounding Ylläs fells, towards Pallas and all the way to Sweden. Kuertunturi is particularly beautiful at sunset, when the low sun paints the fell landscape in beautiful colours.
All you need are good outdoor clothes, good company and perhaps a camera to capture the scenery. You can also combine the trip with a stop at the atmospheric Velhon Kota, where you can warm up and enjoy something from the café.
Aakenustunturi Wilderness Trail
Aakenustunturi offers a variety of hiking opportunities throughout the year. In summer, you can explore the trail starting from the Totovaara parking area, hike the Totovaara fell trail or take the Moloslaki loop. The newest wilderness hut in Aakenustunturi, the six-person Aakenustupa, is beautifully located along the Moloslaki loop and offers a pleasant place to take a break.
The Vareslaki loop starts from the Pyhäjärvi parking area and takes you through the beautiful wilderness scenery of Aakenustunturi. Along the route, there are two nice places to stop for a break: the Pyhäjärvi wilderness hut and an accessible kota. You can also stay overnight at the wilderness hut.
In winter, an approximately 26-kilometre cross-country ski trail circles Aakenustunturi, offering beautiful scenery and a wonderful way to experience the fell landscape on skis. Along the way, it is well worth making a detour to Iso Totovaara to admire the views over the Ylläs fell range. The route is suitable for both experienced outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Hiking to the top of Yllästunturi
Yllästunturi is a landmark of Western Lapland, rising to 719 metres above sea level and offering magnificent views stretching for more than a hundred kilometres. The summit can be reached year-round from both the Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi sides of the fell. In summer, you can reach the summit on foot or by bike. From the Äkäslompolo side, Visitor Centre Kellokas is a convenient starting point for the trip. In winter, both skiers and winter hikers can enjoy the magnificent fell scenery, and there is also a snowmobile route leading to the summit. On the Ylläsjärvi side, the gondola offers an easy shortcut to the top.
The views from the summit of Yllästunturi are truly spectacular. Hiking to the top is a great choice for anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty of Ylläs and enjoy magnificent fell scenery. The hike is suitable for both experienced hikers and families.
Finland’s highest-altitude restaurant, Ylläskammi, is located at the top of Yllästunturi. It offers a great place to take a break while enjoying beautiful views over the surrounding fells. Ylläskammi is open when the gondola or Huippu lift is operating.
Tips for a successful hike
Ylläs offers a wide variety of hiking trails and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful nature of Lapland. It is important to be properly prepared and take the weather conditions into account. Good outdoor clothing and footwear, enough water and snacks, as well as a map and compass are important to bring along.
You can buy a map at several local shops and stores in Ylläs. A digital map is also available at kartta.yllas.fi. By purchasing a map, you support the maintenance of the trails in the Ylläs area.
Remember to respect nature and follow local rules. Always take your rubbish with you and leave rest areas clean for those who come after you. Keep your dog on a leash and remember to pick up after your pet. Together, we can help keep the beautiful nature of Ylläs clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Accommodation in Ylläs
When planning a trip to Ylläs, choose accommodation that suits your needs. AuroraCottage offers a wide range of cosy cottages for families, groups of friends and couples. Our cottages are located close to hiking trails and provide a comfortable base to return to after a day spent outdoors.
Our selection includes cottages of different sizes and with different levels of amenities. You can choose a peaceful cottage surrounded by nature or stay closer to local services. Explore our selection and find the perfect accommodation for your holiday in Ylläs!
