Ski tracks
The Sallatunturi area has a wide-ranging network of trails, where you can make a quick run via a café or even head out deep into the wilderness. Most of the ski tracks are mechanically maintained with a groomer and have a skating lane between the track grooves. At Kalliojärvi and Aikkipetsi tracks there are track sections containing “touring tracks”, which are maintained less frequently using snowmobiles. These sections have no skating lane. You can ski together with your dog on the Kalliojärvi and Kaunisharju track. You can check InfoGIS.fi (in finnish) for real-time maintenance information.
Cross-country skiing to Salla Wilderness Park and back, 8.5 km, circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 1-2 h
Medium difficulty trail
Forest ski trail
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Sallatunturin Tuvat, Hangasjärventie , 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.3379', 28° 45.9431'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405240
Address: Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park, formerly Reindeer Park/Poropuisto), Hautajärventie 111, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 44.3297', 28° 49.4223'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7403441, 580361
Hiking structures
Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter*, Kontiolampi lean-to shelter*, Salla Visitor Centre (* These rest stops are maintained by Salla municipality)
Trail description
Recommended direction of travel: can be skied in either direction
This track winds through the forests of the Sallatunturi tourist resort. While skiing the track, you can see northern birds and the tracks of forest animals in the snow. The track runs on both sides of the Salla-Kuusamo highway, but entirely inside the forest. The Salla Wilderness Park operates at the Salla Visitor Centre.
You can start either from the Tunturikeskus, Sallatunturin Tuvat or Salla Visitor Centre. The western section of the ski track dives deeper into the pine forest past the Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter. A separate location for observing the natural phenomenon is also located next to the Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter. After the forest section, you’ll come to the next rest area, the Kontiolampi lean-to shelter, which can be reached on a 300-metre detour, just before Salla Visitor Centre. This western section of the route between the Ski Resort and Visitor Centre is not illuminated. The Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park) has a café and Metsähallitus’ extensive nature exhibition, where you can learn about nature in Salla and the Salla National Park.
The track continues across the road to Salla-Kuusamo, passing into Salla National Park for a stretch. The trail following the ski track runs back to the Resort Centre on mostly flat terrain. This eastern section of the track between the Visitor Centre and Resort Centre is illuminated, so it can also be skied when it is dark.
Notes
The eastern section of the track is open all winter and is illuminated. The western section of the track is open when there is enough snow, but it is not illuminated.
Around the Fell ski track, 8.6 km, circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 1-2 h
Medium difficulty track
Fell landscape in Salla National Park
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Pohjoisrinteet (Northern slopes), Tunturikummuntie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 46.2496', 28° 46.6856'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7406949, 578250
Hiking structures
Itäkota café and lean-to shelter (maintained by the operator/Salla municipality)
Trail description
Recommended direction of travel: clockwise
Living up to its name, the Around the Fell track runs around one of the Sallatunturi fells, Pieni Pyhätunturi. Part of the track runs on the boundary line of the Salla National Park or just inside it, and you can enjoy amazing views of the National Park and its highest peak, Iso Pyhätunturi.
The ski track starts at the Tunturikeskus (Resort Centre) and heads north past Keselmäjärvi Lake. After skiing for just under two kilometres, there is a turn to the right, where the track begins to climb. After a few moments, you will pass the Pohjoisrinteet parking area (North Slopes) and the starting point (which is not directly visible to the track), from which you can also start this ski track loop. The climb ends shortly before Itärinteet (Eastern Slopes), turning into a gentle downhill slope. On Itärinteet, you can stop for a hot cocoa or something else tasty. At the next intersection, continue directly across the intersecting track towards the winding downhill slope. If you turn left at this intersection, you can take an additional 500-metre detour to the Tunturilampi lean-to shelter and then return on the same track. If you turn right, you’ll be able to ski a rolling fitness track. After the downhill section, turn right and ski for a couple more kilometres back to the Tunturikeskus (Resort Centre).
Notes
This track has long downhill sections that can be icy sometimes. The track is serviced on Mondays and Thursdays, or, if more than 3 cm of new snow accumulates, the track will be groomed after it stops snowing or on the following morning.
Kaunisharju Trail, 12 km, circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 2-3 h
Medium difficulty trail
Ski in Salla National Park, along its Ice Age-formed eskers and through old-growth forests
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park, formerly Reindeer Park/Poropuisto), Hautajärventie 111, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 44.3297', 28° 49.4223'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7403441, 580361
Hiking structures
Kaunisharju lean-to shelter, Tunturilampi lean-to shelter
Trail description
Recommended direction of travel: can be skied in either direction
The Kaunisharju trail leads through a beautiful forest dominated by spruce trees, partly in Sallatunturi National Park. The track runs along the edges of Kaunisharju’s steep eskers, which were formed during the Ice Age, and offers the skier beautiful views of the fell and mire landscape. The track runs relatively close to the tourist resort, but it still retains a wilderness atmosphere. According to legend, a hermit lived in his hiding place in Kaunisharju and stayed away from the beaten track.
Starting at the Resort Centre, the Kaunisharju trail follows a path leading on to the right from the information signs, turning left at the following junction after 100 metres. The trail meanders along parallel to the Salla–Kuusamo road ((Road 950) almost half the way, initially along the edge of a mire through old mixed forests. Continue going straight at the next intersection and you’ll soon cross the boundary line of Salla National Park. After a while, you’ll come to an intersection, where you turn right and head to the Salla Visitor Centre, or continue to the left and head deeper into the old-growth forests of the national park towards the Kaunisharju lean-to shelter, which is the first rest point on the trail.
From the lean-to shelter, the trail starts to climb towards the denser old-growth spruce forests and the second rest stop of the trail at Tunturilampi lean-to shelter. Salla National Park ends shortly before the lean-to shelter. Magnificent views of Iso Pyhätunturi can be enjoyed from the banks of Tunturilampi pond, which is reached on a winter cycling trail just over 100 metres long. The maintained ski track does not quite reach the pond.
From the Tunturilampi lean-to shelter, the track continues through the old spruce and pine forests. On the way back, you can select one of several alternative tracks back to the Resort Centre. The main track soon heads downhill to the left, and you will be able to go straight to the fitness track, which runs along the esker.
You can start the Kaunisharju track from the Resort Centre, in which case the distance will be 11 km, or from the Salla Visitor Centre, which makes for a total length of 11.6 km.
Notes
The Kaunisharju track can also be skied together with your dog. The track is serviced on Mondays and Thursdays, or, if more than 3 cm of new snow accumulates, the track will be groomed after it stops snowing or on the following morning. The site for observing natural phenomena at Kaunisharju is located on top of the esker on the Salla–Kuusamo road, not on this trail. You should bring matches if you intend to light a fire, and your own toilet paper.
Hangasselkä Loop, ski track, 20 km, circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 3.5-5 h
Medium difficulty trail
The peace of a wilderness forest
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Sallatunturin Tuvat, Hangasjärventie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.3379', 28° 45.9431'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405240
Hiking structures
Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter*, Hangasjärvi lean-to shelter, Lassi lean-to shelter (* These rest stops are maintained by Salla municipality)
Trail description
Recommended direction of travel: can be skied in either direction
The Hangasselkä Loop is a slightly longer track, which runs through the varied, wilderness-like forests of Salla in a nicely remote setting. Along the way, you’ll see large, gnarly old pines and standing deadwood pines, not to mention scores of forest animal tracks. This track route can be modified in a variety of ways by combining it with other tracks, such as by taking a 1.5 km detour to the Kalliojärvi day-use hut.
The Hangasselkä Loop can be started either from the Resort Centre or Sallatunturin Tuvat, where the track crosses a small mire south towards the Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter. Just over 2 kilometres away is the Hangasjärvi lean-to shelter, from which the track climbs to the top of Hangasselkä. At the end of the climb, turn right at the intersection, right after which you can enjoy a nice and easy downhill coast. As the downhill slope flattens out, you can continue to the right at the intersection, or you can take a detour or an even longer loop to the Kalliojärvi hut. The next rest stop is the Lassi lean-to shelter. Then, the final stretch, which is just under 6 kilometres long, starts back to the Resort Centre.
Notes
This ski track loop is open in its entirety beginning week 7. The track is serviced on Mondays and Fridays, or, if more than 3 cm of new snow accumulates, the track will be groomed after it stops snowing or on the following morning. Because the track is far from any roads or services, make sure you are properly equipped with suitable ski gear, spare clothing, a map, fully charged phone, and enough to drink and eat. You should bring matches if you intend to light a fire, and your own toilet paper.
Ruuhitunturi ski track, 21.5 km, circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 4.5-6 h
Medium difficulty trail
The magic of crown snow, the wilderness and fells
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Sallatunturin Tuvat, Hangasjärventie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.3379', 28° 45.9431'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405240
Address: Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park, formerly Poropuisto), Hautajärventie 111, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 44.3297', 28° 49.4223'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7403441, 580361
Hiking structures
Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter*, Hangasjärvi lean-to shelter*, Ruuhitunturi wilderness café and day hut*, Lehtoaava Lapp hut, Siskelilampi Lapp hut, (Salla Visitor Centre), Kontiolampi lean-to shelter* (* these rest stops are maintained by operators/Salla municipality)
Trail description
Recommended direction of travel: can be skied in either direction; certain sections have loops going in one direction.
Ruuhitunturi is known for its crown snow-covered trees, which, if the conditions are right, adorn the landscape well into the spring. Due to its differences in elevation, the Ruuhitunturi track is demanding, but skiers will be rewarded with breathtaking landscapes and a wilderness atmosphere. Skiers can also treat themselves to delicacies from the wilderness café. In the wilderness, you can extend your outing by stopping at the Aikkipetsi open wilderness hut.
The Ruuhitunturi track starts at the Ski Resort (Tunturikeskus) or from the mire next to Sallatunturin Tuvat. The track is 21.5-22 km long, depending which tracks you take. You can also start the Ruuhitunturi track from the Salla Visitor Centre, in which case the length of the trail is 17.8-19 km, depending on which tracks you take. The first rest stop, the Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter, is skipped right at the beginning of your run. After the Hangasharju crossing, the next rest stop is the Hangasjärvi lean-to shelter, where you can already see the summit of Ruuhitunturi fell. A short way after Hangasjärvi, we recommend making the climb on the track that curves to the right. This track runs a bit lower than the downhill track heading in the other direction. The track climbs through a lovely spruce forest towards Ruuhitunturi. The Ruuhitunturi area is a protected forest. At the end of the long, but gentle climb, you’ll come to the wilderness café, which is open in the spring. A day hut can also be found on the grounds of the larger café building. At the top of the Ruuhitunturi fell, there is an observation tower, to which you can take a detour if so desired.
You can extend your ski trip to Ruuhitunturi by stopping at the Aikkipetsi open wilderness hut. The Aikkipetsi ski trail, which is 5.5 km long, runs along the slope mires and hillsides, passing a lovely pond on the approach to the hut. Because this trail runs through the middle of the wilderness, phone network coverage cannot always be guaranteed trackside. You can take a pleasant break at the hut by the heat of the wood-burning stove. The, you will return to Ruuhitunturi from the hut using the same trail. However, keep in mind that you should have experience in winter conditions and orienteering when using this trail.
As you continue your trip from Ruuhitunturi, the track continues downhill towards the next rest stop, the Lehtoaapa campfire hut at the edge of the mire. The campfire hut can also be reached by snowmobile. The trail continues circling around the southern part of Ruuhitunturi, gradually descending towards the Siskellampi campfire hut. From the campfire hut, the trail winds along the side of Pirttivaara hill before passing Tammakkolampi and arriving at an intersection, where you can take a 600-metre detour to the Salla Visitor Centre. The return to the Resort Centre (Tunturikeskus) runs along a small esker, and you can take a detour to the Kontiolampi lean-to shelter on a 300-metre track. You will soon return to the forest section at the start before returning to Sallatunturi Tuvat and the Resort Centre.
Notes
The ski track and Ruuhitunturi wilderness café are open in the early spring, starting from week 7. A separate winter hiking and winter cycling trail and snowmobile trail also lead to Ruuhitunturi. The trails are serviced on Tuesdays and Fridays, or, if more than 3 cm of new snow accumulates, the track will be groomed after it stops snowing or on the following morning. Because the track is far from any roads or services, make sure you are properly equipped with suitable ski gear, spare clothing, a map, fully charged phone, and enough to drink and eat. You should bring matches if you intend to light a fire as well as your own toilet paper.
The Aikkipetsi ski trail is also groomed by snowmobile a few times during the spring season. After a snowstorm, the trail may be snowed over in places. The Aikkipetsi ski trail is not fully within the mobile network coverage area.
Kalliojärvi ski track, 18-23 km, circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 3.5-5 h
Medium difficulty trail
Majestic rock walls and the peace of the wilderness
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Hiking structures
Lassi lean-to shelter*, Kalliojärvi day hut, Sirkka lean-to shelter*, Keselmälampi cooking shelter* (* these rest stops are maintained by Salla municipality)
Trail description
Recommended direction of travel: can be skied in either direction
The Kalliojärvi ski track leads to a wilderness ski track that passes between stately rock walls. The ski track runs through forests, over open mires and on hillsides, offering plenty of hard and fast skiing action. The highlight of the ski track is the rocky Lake Kalliojärvi and the Kalliojärvi day-use hut situated on its bank. You can ski to and back from Sallatunturi Resort Centre (approx. 18 km) or via the Sirkka lean-to shelter as a circle trail of approx. 23 km. The circle trail also links up with Salla municipal centre trails.
The track starts at the Resort Centre (Tunturikeskus) and, immediately after the Salla-Kuusamo road (no. 950) underpass, curves to the right, continuing past the cottage areas towards Keselmämännikö, the mire section and the Ruuhijoki River. The first rest stop is the Lassi lean-to shelter. After the lean-to shelter, the trail splits off into a loop at Kalliojärvi, which should be skied clockwise. When skiing the 18-kilometre track, you will return on the same track from the Lassi lean-to shelter. From the lean-to shelter, the trail descends across the mire towards more rocky terrain.
The track drops down to Kalliolampi first and then, after crossing a small isthmus, reaches Kalliojärvi. After passing sheer rock walls, you will arrive at the Kalliojärvi day-use hut and campfire site on the left. This track section, which runs through Kalliolampi and Kalliojärvi, is a touring track that has no skating lane.
The trail continues, climbing slightly from the lake, and turns to the right at the next intersection, heading back towards the Lassi lean-to, if you choose to ski the 18 km loop. If you want to ski the 23 km loop, turn left here and go around Marjavaara hill. On this longer loop, the next rest stop is the Sirkka lean-to shelter. Shortly before reaching the lean-to shelter, you will come upon several different intersections, which are linked to tracks leading to the Salla municipal centre. The last rest stop on the loop before reaching the Resort Centre is the Keselmälampi cooking shelter.
Notes
This track is open from week 7 onwards. The track crossing the ice on Lake Kalliojärvi cannot be maintained with a groomer. The 1.5 km ice crossing is a touring track that must be skied using the classic style. Depending on the weather conditions, there may sometimes be water on the ice of the lake. Because the track is far from any roads or services, make sure you are properly equipped with suitable ski gear, spare clothing, a map, fully charged phone, and enough to drink and eat. You should bring matches if you intend to light a fire as well as your own toilet paper. The track is serviced on Sundays and Wednesdays, or, if more than 3 cm of new snow accumulates, the track will be groomed after it stops snowing or on the following morning. The Kalliojärvi track can also be skied together with your dog.
Winter cycling trails
Winter cycling trails are groomed with a snowmobile. Because some of the tracks (e.g. Pahakurun kierros trail) are narrow, you should be prepared to meet oncoming bikers and control your speed when going downhill as there is little room for overtaking regardless of the recommended direction of travel. Remember to gear up properly when riding on winter cycling trails. You can cover a lot of distance quickly when riding and mobile network coverage is not always guaranteed. So, pack suitably warm clothing, a fully charged phone, a map, food and drink.
Ruuhitunturi trail, winter cycling, 6.6 km (7.4 km) /direction
During snow season, run time approx. 1 h
Medium difficulty trai
The magic of crown snow and fells
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Sallatunturin Tuvat, Hangasjärventie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.3379', 28° 45.9431'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405240
Hiking structures
Ämminpolku lean-to shelter, Hangasjärvi lean-to shelter, Ruuhitunturi lean-to shelter, Ruuhitunturi wilderness café (these rest stops are maintained by the operator/ Salla municipality).
Trail description
Trail markings: Blue winter cycling symbols
Ruuhitunturi is known for its crown snow-covered trees, which, if the conditions are right, adorn the landscape well into the spring.
The Ruuhitunturi winter cycling trail starts at the Resort Centre or from the mire next to Sallatunturin Tuvat. After Sallatunturin Tuvat, the trail initially starts to curve away from the other trails to the right, soon passing the Ämminpolku lean-to shelter nearby. After the Hangasharju crossing, the next rest stop is the Hangasjärvi lean-to shelter, where you can already see the summit of Ruuhitunturi fell. The trail gradually begins to climb through a lovely spruce forest towards Ruuhitunturi. The Ruuhitunturi area is a protected forest. At the end of the long, but gentle climb, you’ll come to the wilderness café, which is open in the spring. A day hut can also be found on the grounds of the larger café building. The top of Ruuhitunturi has an observation tower, but the maintained winter cycling trail ends at the café. The trail returns along the same route.
The trail is 6.6 km one-way from Sallatunturi Tuvat and 7.4 km if you start from the Resort Centre.
Notes
The trail and Ruuhitunturi wilderness café are open in the early spring, beginning week 7. The trail can also be hiked, and a separate ski track and snowmobile trail also leads to Ruuhitunturi. Because the track is far from any roads or services, make sure you are properly equipped. Visitors should bring winter cycling gear suitable for the weather conditions, consisting of warm shoes, weatherproof clothing, spare clothes, a map, a charged phone, and enough to drink and eat. You should bring matches if you intend to light a fire as well as your own toilet paper.
Kontiolammen kierros Trail, winter cycling, 8.1 km (9 km), circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 1.5 h
Easy trail
Winter cycling route in the forest
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park, formerly Reindeer Park/Poropuisto), Hautajärventie 111, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 44.3297', 28° 49.4223'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7403441, 580361
Address: Sallatunturin Tuvat, Hangasjärventie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.3379', 28° 45.9431'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405240
Hiking structures
Salla Visitor Centre, Kontiolampi lean-to shelter*, Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter* (* these lean-to shelters are maintained by Salla municipality)
Trail description
Recommended direction of travel: clockwise
The Kontiolammen kierros trail runs on both sides of the Salla-Kuusamo road, past the Sallatunturi cottage areas, also diving deeper into the forest. On the trail, you can see northern birds and the tracks of forest animals in the snow.
You can start either from the Resort Centre (Tunturikeskus), Sallatunturin Tuvat or Salla Visitor Centre. This route description starts at the Resort Centre. At the beginning, the trail follows the ski track towards the Kaunisharju lean-to shelter. Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park) is located approximately at the halfway point of the trail and has a café and Metsähallitus' extensive nature exhibition, where you can explore the nature of Salla and Salla National Park. This section of the trail is illuminated.
The trail continues from the Visitor Centre along the esker next to Tammakkolampi, and the next rest stop is the Kontiolampi lean-to shelter. The trail continues deeper into the forest, following along the eskers. The last rest stop on the trail is the Sallatunturi Tuvat lean-to shelter, just before Sallatunturi Tuvat. A separate site for observing the aurora borealis is also located at this rest point. The trip back to the Resort Centre follows light traffic routes. There is no lighting on this section between the Resort Centre and Sallatunturi Tuvat.
When hiked as a circle trail, the trail is 9 km long, 8.1 km of which is the official winter cycling trail in the forest.
Notes
Visitors should bring winter cycling gear suitable for the weather conditions, consisting of warm shoes, weatherproof clothing, spare clothes, a map, a charged phone, and enough to drink and eat. You should bring matches if you intend to light a fire as well as your own toilet paper.
Pahakurun kierros Trail, winter cycling, 18 km, circle trail
During snow season, run time 2-3 h
Medium difficulty trail
See the beautiful old-growth forests, fell landscapes and deep gorges of Sallatunturi National Park
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park, formerly Reindeer Park/Poropuisto), Hautajärventie 111, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 44.3297', 28° 49.4223'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7403441, 580361
Address: Pohjoisrinteet (Northern slopes), Tunturikummuntie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 46.2496', 28° 46.6856'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7406949, 578250
Hiking structures
Kaippahanoja day-use hut, Pahakuru campfire site, Kylmähete day-use hut, Tunturilampi lean-to shelter
Trail description
Trail markings: red squares on trees
Recommended direction of travel: clockwise
The Pahakuru Trail takes in most of the finest sights in Sallatunturi National Park. Bikers can enjoy old-growth forests, old pine trees, standing deadwood and old-growth spruce forests. Fell views open out in several directions. You get to see Iso Pyhätunturi fell, the highest point in the National Park, from different angles and also get a glimpse of the large fells on the Russian side of the border. The climax of the trail is Pahakuru rest stop with its ancient pines, rocky ravine and the hills of Aatsinginhauta valley glimpsed through the trees. The trail gives you a real taste of the wilderness.
The first section of the trail runs north from the Resort Centre (Tunturikeskus), following the road for approximately 2.5 km. First, drive just under 500 metres on Eraustie road and then turn right on Sallatunturintie. You will soon see a camping area in front of you, where you will turn right. The trail continues slowly climbing for 1.7 km from Tunturikummuntie to Pohjoisrineet (Northern Slopes). After a steeper uphill climb, turn left at the t-intersection - in just under 500 metres you will arrive at Pohjoisrineet (Northern Slopes) parking area and starting point.
From the Pohjoisrineet (Northern Slopes), the trail immediately crosses a ski track and then the boundary of Salla National Park. From the first intersection, the trail continues straight, running along the edge of a commercial forest before heading deeper into the old-growth forests of the national park. The first rest stop on this trail is Kaippahanoja day-use hut, where a panoramic view of commercial forests opens out through the trees.
From Kaippahanoja, the trail continues downhill, offering breathtaking views of the scenery around the Iso Pyhätunturi fell. The pine forest is gradually replaced by spruce stands, and even the occasional old aspen can be seen along the way. After the mire section, an approximately 600-metre detour is taken towards the Pahakuru campfire site at the halfway point of the trail. The trail descends gently along the rocky banks of Pahaojankuru ravine among old pines. Close by the campfire site you can get panoramic views in the direction of Aatsinginhauta valley. In winter, the campfire site may be covered with snow. If so, make sure that you stay inside the campfire site when making a fire. There is a woodshed at Pahakuru, but no dry toilet.
Near the campfire site there are stairs leading to the bottom of the ravine. In the summer you can take water from the brook there (you should always boil untreated water before consuming it). As the stairs are not maintained in the winter, it's not recommended to use them or go down to the bottom of the ravine in the winter.
From Pahakuru, the trail returns 600 metres to the main trail, continuing to the left and climbing the slope of Kylmähetteenkumpu hill. After the next downhill, you will arrive at the Kylmähete day-use hut, which is situated on a small esker. After the hut, the trail begins to climb again, towards the top of Tunturikumpu hill. If you glance occasionally over your shoulder as you are climbing, you might spot the old Sallatunturi fells on the Russian side of the border. When the conditions are right, you can experience a truly enchanting forest encrusted with crown snow. After crossing over the tree-covered hilltop, you’ll enjoy a fun downhill descent to the Tunturilampi lean-to. Just before reaching the lean-to shelter, you can admire the magnificent fell landscape behind Tunturilampi. Salla National Park also ends just before the lean-to shelter.
From Tunturilampi, the trail continues alongside the ski track. From the first intersection, turn left. The trail will descend for some time, winding until it links up with the next ski track. The winter cycling trail continues to the right and follows the ski track for 2.2 km until you are back at the starting point at the Resort Centre.
Notes
The recommended direction of travel of the route is clockwise. The snowmobile-groomed trail is quite narrow, so there is no room for overtaking. Regardless of the recommended direction of travel, when going downhill, be on the lookout for approaching cyclists and ride at a moderate speed. There are short steep sections on the trail. There are no trail markings on the section along the road from the Pohjoisrinteet (Northern Slopes) to the Resort Centre.
Because the trail is far from any roads or services, make sure you are properly equipped. Visitors should bring winter cycling gear suitable for the weather conditions, consisting of warm shoes, weatherproof clothing, spare clothes, a map, a charged phone, and enough to drink and eat. You should bring matches if you intend to light a fire as well as your own toilet paper.
Winter hiking trails
Kaunisharju winter hiking trail, 1.5 km/direction
During snow season, run time approx. 0.5 h
Easy trail
A beautiful landscape seen from top of an esker out over Salla National Park
Starting point
Address: Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park, formerly Reindeer Park/Poropuisto), Hautajärventie 111, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 44.3297', 28° 49.4223'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7403441, 580361
Hiking structures
Kaunisharju observation site for viewing the aurora borealis
Trail description
The Kaunisharju winter hiking trail winds through the forest, occasionally running a bit closer to the highway toward Kuusamontie. A majority of the trail is hiked within Salla National Park, and along the way you can see beautiful old pines.
The trail starts at the Salla Visitor Centre and immediately crosses the Salla-Kuusamo highway. Be careful when crossing - there is no marked pedestrian crossing on the highway. The hiking trail turns right after crossing the road, while the ski tracks and other trails continue straight or left. The Kaunisharju winter hiking trail is winds between rocks and old pines for roughly a kilometre before arriving at the turning point at the Kaunisharju natural phenomena observation site. The site is located at the top of a steep esker slope, where magnificent views open out to the north over the national park. The observation site at Kaunisharju represents a new, slightly edgier type of rest stop architecture, and the small building houses a wide variety of space solutions and possibilities for taking a break. The trail returns along the same route.
Notes
This winter hiking trail is maintained from week 7. There is no dry toilet or campfire site along this trail. There is a shelter and scenic vista at the Kaunisharju observation site The observation site can also be reached by car.
Winter hiking trail to Sallatunturi summit, 2 km (2.4 km) / direction
During snow season, run time approx. 1 h
Medium difficulty trail
Beautiful, faraway views from the top of the Ski Resort fell
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Kilparinne parking area, Sallatunturintie 4, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.750', 28° 45.843'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7406004, 577658
Trail description
This approximately two kilometre-long trail brings hikers to the top of the Sallatunturi ski resort, whose official name is Pieni Pyhätunturi. The trail can be started either from the Resort Centre (Tunturikeskus) or, further north, from the base station of the racing piste. The trail runs around the fell clockwise all the way to the Pohjoisrinteet (Northern Slopes), from which it begins to climb to the summit through the snowy forest. From the summit, you can enjoy stunning views in every direction, including out over Salla National Park and, on clear days, all the way to Russia. There is a campfire hut at the summit. The trail returns along the same route. The trail is 2 km long from the base station of the racing piste and 2.4 km long from the Resort Centre.
This trail is maintained by Salla Ski Resort.
Winter hiking trail to Ruuhitunturi, 6.6 km (7.4 km) / direction
During snow season, run time approx. 2 h
Medium difficulty trail
The magic of crown snow and fells
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Sallatunturin Tuvat, Hangasjärventie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.3379', 28° 45.9431'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405240
Hiking structures
Ämminpolku lean-to shelter, Hangasjärvi lean-to shelter, Ruuhitunturi lean-to shelter, Ruuhitunturi wilderness café (these rest stops are maintained by the operator/ Salla municipality).
Trail description
Ruuhitunturi is known for its crown snow-covered trees, which, if the conditions are right, adorn the landscape well into the spring.
The Ruuhitunturi trail starts at the Resort Centre or from the mire next to Sallatunturin Tuvat. After Sallatunturin Tuvat, the trail initially starts to curve away from the other trails to the right, soon passing the Ämminpolku lean-to shelter nearby. After the Hangasharju crossing, the next rest stop is the Hangasjärvi lean-to shelter, where you can already see the summit of Ruuhitunturi fell. The trail gradually begins to climb through a lovely spruce forest towards Ruuhitunturi. The Ruuhitunturi area is a protected forest. At the end of the long, but gentle climb, you’ll come to the wilderness café, which is open in the spring. A day hut can also be found on the grounds of the larger café building. The top of Ruuhitunturi has an observation tower, but the maintained winter hiking trail ends at the café. The trail returns along the same route.
The length of this trail is 6.6 km when starting from Sallatunturin Tuvat and 7.4 km when starting from the Resort Centre.
Notes
The trail and Ruuhitunturi wilderness café are open in the early spring, beginning week 7. The trail is also open for winter cycling, and a separate ski track and snowmobile trail also leads to Ruuhitunturi. Because the trail runs far from the roads and services, bring a map, a fully charged phone, food and drink, and suitable clothing.
Winter fell hiking trail to Salla Wilderness Park, 8.1 km (9) km, circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 2.5 h
Easy trail
Hiking through a wintry forest
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Sallatunturin Tuvat, Hangasjärventie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.3379', 28° 45.9431'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405240
Address: Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park, formerly Reindeer Park/Poropuisto), Hautajärventie 111, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 44.3297', 28° 49.4223'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7403441, 580361
Hiking structures
Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter*, Kontiolampi lean-to shelter*, Salla Visitor Centre (* These rest stops are maintained by Salla municipality)
Trail description
This trail winds through the forests of the Sallatunturi tourist resort. On the trail, you can see northern birds and the tracks of forest animals in the snow. The trail runs on both sides of the Salla-Kuusamo highway, but entirely inside the forest. It is 1.5 metres wide and groomed by snowmobiles. The Salla Wilderness Park operates at the Salla Visitor Centre.
You can start either from the Resort Centre (Tunturikeskus), Sallatunturin Tuvat or Salla Visitor Centre. The western section of the trail winds deeper into the pine forest past the Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter. A separate location for observing the aurora borealis is also located next to the Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter. The next rest stop, the Kontiolampi lean-to shelter, is reached after the forest section, just before the Salla Visitor Centre. This western section of the route between the Resort Centre and Visitor Centre is not illuminated. The Salla Visitor Centre (Salla Wilderness Park) has a café and Metsähallitus’ extensive nature exhibition, where you can learn about nature in Salla and the Salla National Park.
The trail continues across the road to Salla-Kuusamo, passing into Salla National Park for a stretch. The trail following the ski track runs back to the Resort Centre on mostly flat terrain. This eastern section of the trail between the Visitor Centre and Resort Centre can also be hiked when it is dark, as it follows along the entire length of the illuminated ski track.
The trail is a 9 km circle trail, 8.1 km of which is an official winter hiking trail in the forest.
Snowshoeing trails
Ämminpolku Trail, snowshoeing, 2.3 km (3 km), circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 1 h
Easy trail
Snowshoe trail also suitable for grandparents
Starting point
Address: Tunturikeskus (Sallatunturi Resort Centre), Revontulentie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.5567', 28° 46.1984'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405652, 577929
Address: Sallatunturin Tuvat, Hangasjärventie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 45.3379', 28° 45.9431'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7405240
Hiking structures
Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter*, Ämminpolku lean-to shelter (* These rest stops are maintained by Salla municipality)
Trail description
Trail markings: Blue ploughing signs
‘Ämmi’ is a title that means ‘grandma’. This trail is short, easy and level, so it is also suitable for grandparents.
You can start the trail either from the Resort Centre or Sallatunturin Tuvat. The trail will first cross the mire and continue towards the first rest stop, the Sallatunturin Tuvat lean-to shelter. From here, the snowshoe trail turns slightly to the south, passing through snowy forests to the Ämminpolku lean-to shelter, which is a prime spot for a break. The return route heads north back to Sallatunturin Tuvat and the Resort Centre. The trail is 2.3 km long from Sallatunturin Tuvat and 3 km long from the Resort Centre.
Taivaan tavoittelijan taival Trail, snowshoeing, 4.7 km, circle trail
During snow season, run time approx. 2 h
Medium difficulty trail
Superb fell top views of the Salla National Park and across the border to Russia.
Starting point
Address: Pohjoisrinteet (Northern slopes), Tunturikummuntie, 98900 Salla
Coordinates: WGS84 66° 46.2496', 28° 46.6856'
ETRS-TM35FIN 7406949, 578250.
Hiking structures
Iso Pyhätunturi viewing tower
Trail description
Trail markings: Trail markings: blue ploughing squares and blue squares on trees, on the initial section red squares on trees
Recommended direction of travel: clockwise
Taivaan tavoittelijan taival trail leads hikers all the way up to the treeless fell top through beautiful forests. The viewing tower on the top offers magnificent views of the old Sallatunturi fells on the Russian side, in particular: Sallatunturi, Välitunturi and Rohmoiva. In front are the wintry forests, ponds and small mires of Salla National Park. Commercial forests to the north can also be seen from the summit.
After leaving the Northern slopes parking area, the trail initially follows the UKK trail marked with red squares for 250 metres. It crosses the boundary of Sallatunturi Nature Reserve slightly before coming to a power line and the first junction. Hikers should turn right at the junction and follow the trail marked with blue squares towards the top of Iso Pyhätunturi. The first section of the trail, which leads through an old mixed forest dominated by spruce trees, is easy to hike. As you climb higher, the trail becomes more demanding and steep. The bare summit of the fell is often windy, and you’ll find the Iso Pyhätunturi observation tower with its stunning views.
The trail continues from the summit down towards the south, and, a bit after descending from the top, even more beautiful views open out over the Tunturilammet ponds. The trail descends from the open fell into a forest, where, if conditions are right, the trees will be covered with crown snow. Following a fell ridgeline down through a forest and off the fell, the trail drops down and continues its last stretch along Itärinteentie road before returning to the starting point.
You can also start your hike on this trail at the Resort Centre and reach the Northern slopes along the road leading past Keselmäjärvi Lake. Going this way the distance is 4.3 km in one direction. However, there are no separate signs or trail markings on this trail.
Notes
There are steep climbs on the trail. There are stairs on the approach to the fell summit. These stairs are not maintained in the winter. At the top of the fell is an observation tower. The stairs on the approach and leading up to the observation tower may be slippery, snowy or difficult to climb. There is no separate break or campfire site, dry toilet or water point along the trail.
