Ylläs: Forest Hike with Snowshoes

Exploring the Snowy Wilderness: Ylläs Forest Hike with Snowshoes

If you’re dreaming of winter adventures in Lapland, a snowshoe hike in Ylläs offers an authentic, scenic experience without the need for advanced winter skills. This 2.5-hour guided tour takes you through the breathtaking forests surrounding Ylläsjärvi, combining gentle outdoor activity with cozy moments by a campfire. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature, learn about local wildlife, and enjoy the silence of a snowy landscape.

One of the things we love most about this experience is how accessible it is for most visitors. The guide, Petteri, makes sure everyone gets comfortable walking with snowshoes, and the route is designed to be easy yet visually stunning. Still, a possible consideration is the price—at $98 per person, it’s a bit of an investment for some, but the value is reflected in the quality of the activity and the authentic setting.

This tour will suit anyone who appreciates outdoor exploration, small-group experiences, and the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides. Families with children who can manage walking with snowshoes will also find it suitable, as long as kids are prepared for the snowy trek.

Key Points

• Easy to join for most fitness levels with gentle terrain and clear instructions.
• Includes winter clothing and snowshoes, removing logistical worries.
• Scenic forest and frozen marshland views offer perfect photo opportunities.
• A cozy campfire stop provides hot drinks and biscuits to warm up.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a personal experience.
• Guided in English, with insightful commentary on local flora, fauna, and natural history.

What Makes This Snowshoe Tour Stand Out?

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed for comfort and immersion. Departing directly from Ylläsjärvi, you’ll follow an accessible trail into the Boreal Forest, leading to an enchanting frozen marshland. Here, the wide, icy expanse offers a stunning backdrop, especially if the weather is clear, as some reviewers noted, with “beautiful clear skies” making the scenery even more magical.

The guide will teach you how to walk with snowshoes, which is simpler than it looks. We loved the way the guide emphasized fun and safety, ensuring everyone felt confident on the snow. For the more adventurous, there’s freedom to make your own tracks in the deep snow—a genuine feeling of exploration. The marshland stop is the highlight, with the opportunity to watch animal tracks or simply enjoy the peaceful silence, broken only by crackling fire and friendly chatter.

The Fireside Break: A Cozy Finish

Halfway through, the group gathers around a campfire, which offers a warm contrast to the chilly outdoors. You’ll sip hot drinks—perhaps tea, coffee, or chocolate—and nibble on biscuits. Reviewers, like Frederique, mention the “luck with the weather” and how the fire and hot drinks add a comforting touch to the experience.

Learning and Wildlife

The guide also shares insights into Lapland’s animal life, pointing out tracks and signs of wildlife. This educational element elevates the experience beyond just walking in the snow. It’s a chance to learn about local flora, fauna, and the seasons, making the hike both fun and enlightening.

Practical Details that Matter

Transfers are included if your accommodation is within 15 km of Ylläsjärvi, making logistics easier. The winter clothing provided—thermal overall, boots, wool socks, scarf, beanie, and gloves—ensures you stay warm and comfortable despite the cold.

The group size is limited to 10, fostering a more intimate atmosphere and allowing the guide to give personalized attention. The English-speaking guide is knowledgeable and friendly, making the tour welcoming for international travelers.

What to Expect on the Day

The hike covers approximately 2-3 kilometers, with plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the scenery and take photos. The terrain is described as easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels, though parents should consider their children’s walking abilities with snowshoes. As one reviewer noted, if children cannot manage the walk, parents might need to carry them or consider other options.

Timing is flexible, but check the schedule for available start times. The tour is priced at $98, which includes gear, guiding, and the cozy fireside break—an experience that offers good value for those seeking an authentic Arctic outing.

Authentic Feedback

Reviewers highlight the stunning views and the friendly nature of the guide. Frederique praised the trip as “very nice” with an engaging guide who shared a lot of information. Meanwhile, Katrina pointed out that the pickup process could be improved—a reminder to confirm pickup details ahead of time.

Some mention the activity’s price as slightly high, but most agree that the quality and authenticity justify the cost. Francesca called it “a little bit expensive”, but acknowledged that Lapland activities tend to be on the pricier side.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snowshoe hike is perfect for adventure seekers who want a gentle introduction to Lapland’s winter landscape. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy nature walks with a cultural twist and appreciate small-group settings. Families with children who can handle the snowy terrain will also find it a memorable and manageable experience.

It’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor activity that balances physical activity with comfort and learning. If your interests lean toward photography, wildlife, or simply soaking up the quiet beauty of snow-covered forests, this tour will deliver.

The Sum Up

A guided snowshoe hike in Ylläs offers a wonderful mix of exercise, education, and scenery. The tour’s relaxed pace and focus on natural beauty make it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to experience Lapland’s winter landscapes authentically. The cozy fire break provides a warm, social pause, while the guide’s insights make the outing both fun and informative.

While the cost may seem high to some, the included gear, small group size, and the chance to explore untouched forests justify the price for many travelers. It’s a great way to enjoy the stunning wilderness of Ylläs without needing prior snowshoe experience.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic adventure that combines nature, cultural insights, and a dash of Lapland magic, this walk is likely to leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of photos.

FAQs

Do I need to have prior experience walking with snowshoes?
Not at all. The guide will teach you how to walk with snowshoes, and the terrain is easy, making it suitable for most beginners.

Is transportation included?
Transfers from your accommodation within a 15 km radius of Ylläsjärvi are included, which helps simplify planning.

What should I wear?
The tour provides winter clothing, including thermal overall, boots, wool socks, scarf, beanie, and gloves. Dress warmly and in layers for comfort.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 2.5 hours, covering 2-3 kilometers on easy terrain.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome if they can walk the distance with snowshoes. Parents should ensure their kids are comfortable with the snowy walk.

What is the experience like if the weather is clear?
Clear skies can enhance the views, making the snow-covered forests and marshlands even more spectacular, as noted by past participants.

In summary, this Ylläs snowshoe tour offers a genuine, scenic escape into Lapland’s winter landscape. It’s a practical choice for those who want a guided, small-group experience with authentic touches, like a fireside break and wildlife insights. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a small group, this adventure provides good value and memorable views—an ideal introduction to the magic of Finnish winter.