Äkäslompolo: Ylläs, Trails and Kellokas

Äkäslompolo offers several ways to make the most of a trip to Ylläs: the ski resort, cycling and paddling routes, and nature and culture at the Kellokas Visitor Centre. The season is an important factor when planning. The Kuru lift and Ylläs Ski Bus operate seasonally, hiking trails to the summit are mentioned for summer, and paddling depends on ice-free conditions.

Ski resort and summit at Ylläs

From Äkäslompolo, you can reach the summit of Ylläs on the Kuru lift; the lift operates seasonally. Ylläs Ski Resort Äkäslompolo has a separate practice area for small children and beginners. The gentler lower slopes are also suitable for children and beginners. The Lännenlevelä slope is up to 200 metres wide. In spring, natural snow stays on the slopes of Varkaankuru the longest; snow conditions vary by season. The northern slopes of Ylläs offer views across Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park.

The summit is not just a destination for the lift: in summer, hiking trails and service roads lead up from Ylläs Ski Resort Äkäslompolo. The options described therefore vary depending on the activity and time of year. When planning a trip to the summit, it is worth considering the season associated with your chosen trail or lift.

Nature and culture at the Kellokas Visitor Centre

At the Yllästunturi Nature Centre Kellokas Visitor Centre, the Meän elämää exhibition introduces local nature and culture. There are also changing art exhibitions, whose programme may vary. The centre is accessible and suitable for families with children. The Savottamuseo is also part of the visitor centre. Its exhibits tell the story of forestry work and forest workers’ accommodation; the museum is housed in a log building erected in 1995. The Tano House, the oldest building in Äkäslompolo, offers another connection to the village’s history.

Explore by bike or on foot

The family-friendly Kesänkijärven polkaisu cycling loop starts in the village of Äkäslompolo, goes to Lake Kesänkijärvi and returns through the forests of Nilivaara. The Stories Trail can be explored by the whole family on foot or by bike; take its seasonal availability into account when planning. Another option for a bike ride is the route around Äkäslompolo, which passes Karilan Navettagalleria, where you can stop for refreshments. Refreshment options may vary.

For a summer break, there are two easily accessible rest stops: the lean-to shelter by Lake Kesänkijärvi and the Varkaankuru day-trip hut. Both are described as seasonal places to stop. This lets you pair your route with a specific place for a break without treating the individual trails as one and the same.

Paddling on the river and lakes

You can paddle along the Äkäsjoki from Äkäslompolo to the Muoniojoki and onward to the Swedish border. Water levels and navigability vary by season. Circular routes are also possible on the lakes in Äkäslompolo. With this type of loop, there is no need for a separate pickup at the end. Paddling on the lakes requires ice-free conditions. The river trip and lake loop therefore offer different types of outing: a described downstream route or a trip that returns to its starting point.

Getting around by ski bus

From November to early May, the Ylläs Ski Bus connects Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi with the ski resort. During the ski season, it also connects services and hotels in Äkäslompolo with Ylläs Ski Resort Äkäslompolo. The bus stops in front of the Kellokas Visitor Centre on Tunturintie. As the service is seasonal, check the current timetable and list of stops before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Pelkosenniemi, Räisälä, Ranua, Nuorgam, Kolari, Kemijärvi, Kaamanen, Pohjaslahti

For the overview of the wider region: Lapland.