Pääsiäisreissu pohjoiseen on vielä mahdollinen – näissä keskuksissa ladut ja rinteet ovat kunnossa

Record-warm spring weather has forced the closure of snowmobile trails and ice-based ski routes across northern Finland just before Easter, but many ski resorts report their slopes remain in good condition with moderate to strong booking levels for the holiday.

Unseasonably warm March temperatures have disrupted winter tourism in northern Finland, with many operators closing snowmobile trails and lake-crossing ski routes due to safety concerns. Despite the challenges, most resorts confirm their downhill slopes are well maintained, and Easter bookings remain steady.

Snowmobile trails closed, but slopes open

In the Ruka-Kuusamo area, snowmobile trail markers have been removed from waterways for safety reasons. Marko Mustonen of Stella Polaris trail services said routes to Hossa and Taivalkoski were closed last week. Kuusamo’s 200 km of official snowmobile trails and 400 km of off-road routes are now inaccessible.

Cross-country ski trails are also deteriorating. In Kuusamo, conditions are patchy, while Ruka’s trails remain usable but icy in sections. “There’s some water and sand on the tracks, but I’m hopeful Easter skiing will still be good,” said visitor Kimmo Martti. Ruka’s resort manager, Matti Parviainen, confirmed slopes will stay open through May Day.

Resorts adapt to early spring

At Iso-Syöte in Pudasjärvi, CEO Heidi Terentjeff-Jaurakkajärvi said advance bookings remain unaffected. Slopes are in excellent shape thanks to artificial snow, and day visitors are expected. Some trails are still skiable due to nighttime frost, though snowmobiling is discouraged.

Vuokatti has avoided discounting despite the short season. CEO Aija Laukkanen noted slopes are well preserved, allowing visitors to enjoy spring sunshine. Snowmobile routes closed early, and lake trails became unusable, but groomed slopes remain open.

In Kainuu, Ukkohalla’s slopes will operate until April 12 as planned, though ski trails were last groomed weeks ago. Husky safaris ended last week. “Weekends are busy, but weekdays are quieter than usual,” said Lomana’s Jussi Kiiskilä.

Levi and Saariselkä fare best

Levi Ski Resort reports optimal conditions, with slopes open until May 10. “Our trail network is in top shape, and we expect a busy Easter,” said Marko Mustonen. Saariselkä and Luosto also retain good snow cover, though water crossings on snowmobile routes are problematic, according to Lapland Hotels’ Pekka Kuusisto.