Snowshoe to Kellostapuli, Smoked Fish Lunch & Local Museum

Set out on a 5-hour guided winter adventure in Lapland with NORTHWIND LAPLAND, taking you from snowy forest trails to panoramic mountain viewpoints at Kellostapuli. Starting with a scenic 20-minute minibus transfer, this tour offers an ideal blend of outdoor activity, local flavors, and cultural insights. The highlight is the snowshoe hike to the top of Kellostapuli (500 meters), where sweeping views over the Ylläs fells and snowy landscapes reward your climb.

Following the hike, you warm up at the Ylläs Nature Centre with a hearty smoked salmon soup and enjoy a tasting of four locally smoked fish, showcasing Lapland’s delicious culinary traditions. The tour concludes with a visit to a local museum, where engaging exhibits reveal the traditions and everyday life of Ylläs. This experience caters to those wanting outdoor adventure paired with authentic Finnish culture, though it requires participants to be in average good shape due to the altitude gain.

Key Points

• Guided snowshoe hike to the summit of Kellostapuli, reaching 500 meters altitude
• Scenic 20-minute minibus transfer along Ylläss breathtaking panoramic road
• 3-hour outdoor walk through Lapland’s pristine winter wilderness
• Hearty smoked fish lunch, including smoked salmon soup and tasting of four local smoked fish varieties
• Visit to a local museum to explore Ylläs’ cultural heritage and traditions
• Small group setting limited to 8 participants for an intimate experience
• Tour is not suitable for children under 10 years and requires good physical condition

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Exploring Ylläs’ Snowshoe Trail and Kellostapuli Peak

The tour begins with a scenic transfer along Ylläss panoramic road, where views of the snowy forest and frozen fells capture the essence of Lapland’s winter landscape. Upon reaching the trailhead, the guides assist with snowshoeing equipment, and then it’s time to follow the local expert through Lapland’s untouched wilderness.

The 3-hour hike takes you through silent, snow-blanketed forests to the summit of Kellostapuli, at 500 meters high. The ascent is manageable for those in average good shape, with an altitude gain of around 350 meters. The reward is a breathtaking panoramic view over the snow-covered mountains and forests, a perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the wintery Silence.

The Scenic Route to Kellostapuli

The snowshoe trail leads through Lapland’s pristine wilderness, giving a true sense of outdoor adventure. The trail is designed to be accessible without being difficult, but a basic level of fitness is necessary. The guide points out flora and fauna, sharing insights into Lapland’s natural environment and winter survival.

The journey up to Kellostapuli feels like stepping into a winter postcard, with snow-laden trees and the expansive fells providing a stunning backdrop. The viewpoint at the top offers sweeping vistas over the Ylläs region, making the climb well worth the effort.

Authentic Lapland Flavors with Smoked Fish Lunch

After the outdoor excursion, the group warms up at the Ylläs Nature Centre, where a hearty smoked salmon soup is served. The soup is rich, filling, and prepared with local ingredients, offering a taste of Lapland’s culinary traditions.

Following the soup, participants sample four different types of locally smoked fish, giving an authentic insight into Lapland’s fish-smoking techniques. The tasting highlights the region’s delicacy, appreciated by locals for its rich flavors and traditional preparation methods.

Visiting the Local Museum: Discover Ylläs’ Cultural Heritage

The last stop is a visit to a local life museum, where exhibitions showcase the traditions, daily life, and cultural history of Ylläs and Lapland. The museum exhibits include historical tools, clothing, and artifacts, offering a window into the lifestyles of Lapland’s inhabitants.

This cultural element complements the outdoor experience, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with Lapland’s identity beyond its stunning scenery. The museum visit lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a relaxed opportunity to absorb local history and culture.

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Practical Details: Pickup, Group Size, and Flexibility

This tour departs from six pickup locations in Ylläs, including Lapland Hotels Ylläskaltio, Lapland Hotel Äkäshotelli, and others. The minibus or van transport takes about 15 minutes to reach the trailhead, making logistics simple and convenient.

The small group size, limited to eight participants, ensures a personalized experience with attentive guidance. The tour is available in English and French, with live guides who explain each step of the journey clearly.

Participants should be aware that the snowshoe hike is not overly difficult, but average good physical condition is recommended due to the altitude gain. Children under 10 years are not suitable for this experience.

Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility

Booking is flexible, with reserve now and pay later options—allowing travelers to secure a spot without immediate payment. Cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for flexible plans. The total tour duration is approximately 5 hours, with a focus on quality outdoor time, cultural exposure, and local flavors.

Comparing Similar Experiences in Lapland

This tour aligns with other snowshoeing adventures in Lapland, like those offered in Akaslompolo and other Ylläs excursions. However, the combination of mountain views, traditional smoked fish tasting, and cultural museum visit makes this experience particularly well-rounded.

The Ylläs Snowshoe to Kellostapuli Experience: Final Thoughts

This tour offers an authentic taste of Lapland in a manageable half-day format. It’s ideal for travelers who want outdoor activity combined with local culinary and cultural highlights. The scenic hike up to Kellostapuli promises stunning vistas, while the smoked fish lunch and museum visit deepen the connection to Ylläs’ heritage.

While suitable for most in good physical shape, it’s not designed for young children or those with mobility challenges. The small-group setting, expert guides, and flexible booking options make it a reliable choice for those seeking a balanced outdoor and cultural experience in Lapland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the snowshoe hike difficult?
The hike is not difficult but requires average good shape because of the altitude gain of 350 meters.

What is included in the lunch?
The lunch features smoked salmon soup and a tasting of four types of locally smoked fish, highlighting Lapland’s culinary traditions.

How long is the museum visit?
The museum visit lasts approximately 45 minutes, offering insights into Ylläs’ traditions and daily life.

What should I wear for the hike?
While not explicitly stated, dressing in warm, layered clothing suitable for winter outdoor activity is advisable given the Lapland winter conditions.

Are children under 10 years old allowed?
No, children under 10 years are not suitable for this tour due to physical requirements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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