Hiking community seeks to memorialise YouTuber Ali Leiniö in nature

The Finnish hiking community is proposing ways to honour the late outdoor influencer Ali Leiniö, who died during a ski trek in April, but the state-owned forestry agency Metsähallitus has urged caution, reports Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

Leiniö, 49, a well-known Finnish YouTuber specialising in hiking and nature videos, died suddenly from a medical emergency while on a ski trek in Lapland. His final video was filmed in the Siikaneva peatland conservation area in Ruovesi, which some have suggested as a potential memorial site.

Following his death, social media users and outdoor enthusiasts have proposed naming hiking trails after Leiniö or placing commemorative plaques in natural areas he frequented. The idea was first reported by Erä magazine.

Metsähallitus, which manages Finland’s state-owned forests and protected areas, has responded with mixed views. While the agency appreciates the community’s initiative, it emphasises the need for restraint and coordination.

“We understand the sentiment behind these ideas, but we urge patience at this stage,” said Heta Kylmämaa, communications director for Metsähallitus’s Nature Services. “The general rule is that no memorial objects or markers should be placed in protected natural areas.”

Kylmämaa confirmed that Metsähallitus has received direct inquiries about naming a trail or rest stop in Leiniö’s honour. The agency is open to the idea in principle but stresses that any decision must be carefully considered.

“We also want to hear the wishes of his family before moving forward,” Kylmämaa added.

Leiniö’s YouTube channel, where he shared self-taught videography of his outdoor adventures, had over 86,000 subscribers. His videos, watched by hundreds of thousands of Finns, often highlighted the country’s natural landscapes.