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Yllästunturi
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Mountain
Yllästunturi (Ylläs) is a 719-meter-high fell located in the Kolari municipality of Finnish Lapland. It is part of the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, the oldest and most visited national park in Finland. The fell is primarily renowned as one of the country's largest winter sports centers, boasting the longest network of ski slopes in Finland. Two villages sit at its base: Äkäslompolo to the north and Ylläsjärvi to the south, connected by a scenic landscape road offering spectacular views over the fell region. Geologically, Ylläs is characterized by its rounded shape, a result of intense glacial erosion during the last ice age. Beyond winter sports, the area has premier conditions for mountain biking and hiking during the summer, with extensive trails crossing the tundra. The air quality in this region is scientifically recognized as some of the cleanest in the world, enhancing the area's appeal for nature-based tourism.
- Location: Finland
- Top sights: Ihmisen Rinki · Meän Elämää · Mustavuoman lehtojensuojelualue
- Nearby: Kittilä (31 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -14 | -13 | -8 | -2 | 5 | 11 | 15 | 12 | 7 | 0 | -7 | -11 |
| Rain mm | 47 | 39 | 37 | 45 | 76 | 92 | 105 | 97 | 84 | 66 | 61 | 56 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The mountain is highly accessible via excellent, well-maintained roads directly from Kittilä airport or Kolari railway station. Numerous paved roads lead straight into the bustling ski resort villages located around the base.
Best season
Winter, from December to April, is the undisputed peak season for downhill and cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Summer and autumn also attract many active visitors for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the midnight sun.
Terrain & paths
The terrain varies significantly, ranging from professionally groomed ski slopes and wide cross-country tracks to rocky paths. During summer, clearly marked hiking and biking trails traverse the beautiful surrounding national park landscape.
What to bring
Downhill or cross-country ski equipment is obviously required in winter, often available for rent in the villages. Comfortable hiking boots, a sturdy daypack, and layers suited for mountain weather are essential during the summer.
Parking
The area has extremely well-developed infrastructure with massive, paved parking lots situated right at the ski centers. These facilities are designed to easily accommodate thousands of visiting cars and tourist buses daily.
Safety
It is crucial to strictly stick to marked trails or slopes, especially in winter, to avoid the real danger of avalanches in off-piste areas. Always be prepared for freezing temperatures, sudden blizzards, and strong winds on the mountain.
Time needed
Most visitors comfortably spend several days to a full week thoroughly enjoying the extensive resort facilities and runs. However, a single dedicated hike or ski session on the mountain itself typically takes between two to five hours.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation: 719 meters above sea level
- Location: Kolari municipality, Lapland
- Protected area: Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
- Number of ski slopes: 63
- Base villages: Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi
- Unique fact: World's cleanest measured air
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Yllästunturi (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is Ylläs fell?
The summit is at 719 meters above sea level. It is one of the highest skiable fells in Finland.
Is there a gondola to the summit?
Yes, Finland's only 8-person gondola lift goes to the summit, where a restaurant is also located.
Can you go cycling there in summer?
Yes, Ylläs is a popular destination for mountain bikers and fatbikers with many marked trails.
Which villages are located near Ylläs?
The fell is flanked by two villages: Äkäslompolo to the north and Ylläsjärvi to the south.
Is there a sauna on the summit?
Yes, the gondola lift features the world's only sauna gondola, which can be booked privately.
Yllästunturi: where is it located?
Yllästunturi is located in Finland.
Yllästunturi: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ihmisen Rinki, Meän Elämää, Mustavuoman lehtojensuojelualue.
Yllästunturi: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Yllästunturi: why is it worth visiting?
Yllästunturi (Ylläs) is a 719-meter-high fell located in the Kolari municipality of Finnish Lapland.
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