FINLAND ARCTIC CHALLENGE LIVE

Welcome to the Finland Arctic Challenge 2026! All of our live content from Arctic Lapland can be found in the menus below. Check out our daily photos, video and event updates. Also, follow us Instagram and Facebook!

See details here for our next Finland Arctic Challenge on 7-13 February 2027. Want to join us? Fill out our registration form and we’ll provide details on sending in your deposit.

EARLY BIRD!! Register before 31 May 2026 for a €500 early bird discount!
Get a FREE personalised photo package (total value 750 euros) when confirming your spot before 15 March 2026!!!!

Finland Arctic Challenge: Pre-Event Update

Sunday 8^th February 2026

We are ready for Stage One of the 2026 Finland Arctic Challenge!

Participants have arrived and their gear is now organized for the week’s activities.

Our host hotel and starting point is Lapland Hotels Saaga in Ylläs. It was an absolutely stunning day in the area with blue skies, snow hanging heavy in the trees and temps about -15 degrees C / 5 degrees F.

About 20 participants from 13 countries will get a taste of the real Lapland as they snowshoe, run, backcountry ski, fat tire bike and dogsled their way around the seven fells that make this area so notable.

Those who arrived early were treated to a spectacular display of northern lights last night. It was the early (or maybe late?) bird who got the best shots of a shimmering screen of green at 3 A.M.

Later in the week, we expect the temps to drop a bit more, potentially hitting -30 C (-22 degrees F) at some of our locations.

The event officially kicked off with a gear check to make sure everyone has all the proper items so as to be safe and comfortable in these extreme conditions.

After the gear check, the group assembled for introductions and a briefing on what to expect for the week. Few were used to the cold, with Jonathan mentioning he left 98 degrees in San Diego! But everyone agreed the beauty of the region is unmatched.

The briefing gave everyone the lowdown on what to expect. Riitta, the founder of the event, told the group about Stage One saying, “Expect it to be hard, but a good introduction to the week.”

The group then split up as some returned to their room to pack (or re-pack) while others went straight to the hotel’s restaurant for nourishment to get ready for tomorrow. At least one person has set their alarm to get up in the middle of the night to have one eye on the Super Bowl (Go Seahawks!) and one eye on the sky for more northern lights.

Tomorrow, the Arctic Challengers set off on Stage One, a 17km/12.5 mile snowshoe climb up and over the majestic Aakenus Fell. Participants are expected to arrive by late afternoon at the Aakenus lumberjack cabin for snacks, warmth, a very hot sauna, a very cold ice dip and plentiful dinner.

Let the fun begin!

You can follow daily updates from the Finland Arctic Challenge on this LIVE website, Instagram and Facebook pages throughout the expedition.

Welcome to the Finland Arctic Challenge 2026! All of our live content from Arctic Lapland can be found in these menus. Check out our daily photos, video and event updates. Also, follow us Instagram and Facebook!

See details here for our next Finland Arctic Challenge on 7-13 February 2027. Want to join us? Fill out our registration form and we’ll provide details on sending in your deposit.

EARLY BIRD!! Register before 31 May 2026 for a $500 early bird discount!

Finland Arctic Challenge: Stage 1

Monday 9th February 2026

Stage 1 – Snowshoe climb over the majestic Aakenus Fell

Departure: Ylläs
Temperature: -13 C 8.6 F
Stage: Snowshoeing
Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles
Arrival: Aakenus cabin

Stage One of the Finland Arctic Challenge is complete!

Today, participants snowshoed 16.7 km / 10.5 miles to the top of Aakenus Fell.

Everyone was up early at the Lapland Hotel Saaga to make sure everything was packed properly. There were also many last minute questions answered about the best clothes to wear for the day. Which shoes to wear? Your own winter boots. How many layers to wear? Many. Do I need to bring hot water? YES!

Breakfast at the hotel opened at 7:30 and everyone ate heartily from the plentiful buffet.

Bags were loaded into a van and the group boarded a bus for the 45 minute drive to the trailhead. Along the way, Roberto, one of the guides, talked about the type of snowshoes we were using and gave a brief show and tell. He then passed around a big bag of packaged cookies and said everyone needed to take plenty for the hike. (No complaints!)

Once the group unloaded from the bus, Laura gave some more comprehensive instructions on how to put on the snowshoes. She also laid out the plan for the day. After a quick group photo, everyone was off!

Almost everyone wore long thermal underwear with lightly padded trousers over top. A merino wool top with a layer or two over it kept everyone’s body warm during this active event. Gaiters covered the bottoms of pants so snow didn’t get in to shoes and most everyone wore their own winter boots in the snowshoes.

Daypacks were filled with extra layers of clothes, hats and gloves, snacks, hot water, sunglasses and/or ski goggles, and a first aid kit. Anything that wasn’t worn immediately, could be put on later.

The first two miles were relatively flat and followed a beautiful forest path where the tree limbs hung heavy with snow. Luckily this part of the trail was slightly packed so it was easy for those in the front. But the path soon began to ascend and a new path had to be forged. Whomever was in front was responsible for post-holing their way through the snow. The team took turns, but all agreed that Davis from Latvia was the most talented in plowing through the snow making it easier for everyone else.

A few people weren’t up for making the climb so they took a shorter route that was closer to 10 kilometers / 6 miles and arrived at the traditional lumberjack cabin in the early afternoon.

Most of the Arctic Challengers continued on and switchbacked their way up another mile and half or so to the top of the fell which was about 560 meters (1,837 feet) to the top.

By this point, the wind had begun to whip up and any chance of a view quickly started to disappear as clouds moved in.

There was just enough time for everyone to quickly eat the packed sandwiches that were prepared in the morning and to adjust their layers, before heading back down the fell. Puffy coats, balaclavas, chemical hand warmers and extra hats all came out.

The path circled about a mile across the top of the fell before descending down a new path which returned through another part of the woods. How lucky that Timo from the route team, drove his snow mobile out along a path and prepared a fire pit for us to stop, warm up and enjoy a snack.

Participants had started to spread out at this point, with the route team members Laura, Roberto and Riitta snowshoeing down with those who liked local support (and Finnish jokes!). Those choosing the short course were accompanied by Susanna from the local team.

From the fire pit to our traditional lumberjack cabin for the night, it was 4.5 miles. The path was lined with blue posts placed strategically so they were easy to find.

Puffy coats and extra layers came off and the group didn’t have go with a guide, as they did up the fell. While tired by the end of this first day, there was renewed energy and excitement as the group traveled along a proper road to reach the lumberjack cabin.

Participants were welcomed at the lumberjack cabin with hot blueberry juice and a slice of either meat or vegan savory pie. Just perfect to snack on before hopping in the sauna and the much feared, and then loved ice-dip before dinner!

Tomorrow, there is an option to do either a half marathon or full marathon. After a long day today, it will be interesting to see what participants choose!

You can follow daily updates from the Finland Arctic Challenge on this LIVE website, Instagram and Facebook pages throughout the expedition.

EARLY BIRD!! Register before 31 May 2026 for a $500 early bird discount!

Finland Arctic Challenge: Stage 2

Tuesday 10th February 2026

Stage 2 – Marathon / Half-marathon+ on the historic lumberjack trail

Departure: Aakenus Cabin
Temperature: -15 C / 5 F
Stage: Run / Hike
Distance: 36km / 22 miles or 25km / 15.5 miles
Arrival: Peurakaltio lumberjack cabin

After last night’s sauna and ice dip(s), everyone had a good night’s sleep at the Aakenus Lumberjack cabin. Some took the opportunity to sleep in a bit this morning and then had a later breakfast at the little cafe. Hard boiled eggs, porridge and several types of bread were available. Oh, and coffee. Urns and urns of coffee (and chaga tea!). The group was now feeling refreshed and ready for a day of running.

Participants had the option of a full marathon (well, just shy of that) or a half marathon+ at 25 km / 15.5 miles. Of the 19 people running, 4 chose the full distance: Davis from Latvia, Jasmine from Switzerland, Rafiq from the USA and Beth from the USA.

They started about an hour ahead of the half marathon group so as to give them a head start since they would be running a farther distance.

The route was on a quiet snow-covered road with only the occasional vehicle passing. Davis and Jasmine set a fast pace while Rafiq and Beth set an easier pace and enjoyed the company of Laura, one of the guides, who was on an e-bike.

The half marathon runners started out on an uneven and slippery path for the first mile or so. It was recommended to walk this section so as not to slip and twist an ankle.

Soon enough the runners came to a road that was packed with snow and ice, which made the running much easier. It continued this way for about 8 kilometers / 5 miles before the group hit another stretch about a kilometer long that was, again, uneven and slippery. Most chose to walk this section and were relieved to soon be back on a road AND to find an Arctic aid station (a tent with a warm fire inside and tea kettles of hot water for thermoses).

After a short break, a bite to eat and the chance to top off on hot water bottles, runners hit the road again for the final 14 kms / 9 miles to tonight’s resting point, the Peurakaltio.

As has been the case this week, the trees were heavy with snow and the road packed with snow and ice. There was more traffic on this road than on the road taken by the marathoners earlier in the day, but they could be heard far off in the distance, so safety was not an issue.

Once at our cozy accommodations for the night, everyone grabbed a hot drink and a slice of homemade savory pie from the cafe and then kicked back to share stories of the day.

There were sore knees and tired bodies, but everyone was in great spirits (and some were drinking spirits 🤣).

Just as the group finished up dinner prepared by our host, Johanna and Kalle, the northern lights began to show. Streaks of green and red could be seen from the horizon, with white streaks shooting up from the bottom. As the tired runners started making their way back to their cabins, the green became more pronounced, making it more difficult to leave the show.

But all finally succumbed and were happy to have the chance to put their legs up and let their heads hit their pillows. Tomorrow…back country skiing!

Sooo, the big question is…who won? Well, even though this was a timed event, it wasn’t meant to be a “race” per se. Instead, it (and all of the activities this week) are a “challenge.” So most of the runners took the event in stride (pun intended) and just enjoyed the day. Others, well, they ran hard! Here’s the breakdown:

1. Davis from Latvia – 4:50 (Ran the full marathon and, um, ran faster than the shorter distance runners!)
2. Lois from Scotland – 4:18
3. Jon from the US – 4:26
4. Simona from Switzerland – 4:26
5. Troy from the US – 4:28
6. Jonathon from the US – 4:40
7. Yasmine from Switzerland – 5:28 (full marathon)
8. Jane from Scotland – 5:14
9. Ewan from Scotland – 5:14
10. Beth from the US – 5:59 (full marathon)
11. Rafiq from the US – 6:13 (full marathon)
12. Nic from the UK – 5:42
13. Sue from the UK – 5:42
14. Yan Yan from Hong Kong – 5:56
15. Julie from the US – 5:56
16 Alice from Malaysia – 5:56
17. Amin from the US – 6:52
18. Aariz from the US – 6:52

Finland Arctic Challenge: Stage 3

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Wednesday 11th February

Stage 3 – Back-country skiing in the Lands of the indigenous Sámi

Departure: Peurakaltio lumberjack cabin
Temperature: -30 C / -25 F
Stage: Back-country skiing
Distance: up to 18km / 11 miles

The northern lights continued well past dinnertime last night. By 11:30 PM, most of the sky was lit up with streaks of green that rapidly appeared and then disappeared. One person stayed out until 1:30 AM watching and for anyone who had to get up later than that to use the toilet, they were treated to a light show as well. Many were sharing their photos first thing this morning.

Temps were -32 C in the morning. So cold as to freeze hot water when tossed in the air. And yes, the group all caught someone doing this on video. If nothing else, it was a good reminder that everyone needed to be well bundled up for the day.

The group started with breakfast around 7:30. As you can imagine, hot coffee poured freely and a breakfast of porridge, breads, hard boiled eggs, cheese and sliced meat (with vegan versions!) were available to ensure everyone was properly fueled for the day.

There were two options for the day in terms of length of the back-country ski trip. Last night, most said they would do the short route (given how tired everyone felt after running). But, by morning, after everyone had a good night’s sleep, more people decided on the longer route. Both would start from the lumberjack cabin.

After a brief lesson on how to put on the back-country skis, the group learned how to get up from falling. A key ingredient to the back-country ski experience. 🤣

Riitta showed everyone the best method, always removing one’s backpack first to lighten the load, and then using the backpack for leverage to lift the body up.

The group then set off just as the sun was coming up. By this time it was a little warmer, about -25 C and blue skies set against sparkling white trees.

The route followed a snowmobile path for much of the way. Laura suggested that cutting your own way through the snow was easiest but, for newbies, this was a bit tiring on the legs and most stayed on the track.

About two kilometers in, participants hit a crossing where they could decide whether to take the long route or the shorter one. Now that everyone got the feel for being on back-country skis, some who thought they would do the short route, decided on the long way, while some who thought they were all in for the long route, opted for the short route. “Go big or go home. And my wife doesn’t want me home yet,” said one person (who shall remain nameless – LOL).

The undulating snowy route had checkpoints by fire pits that had been prepared in advance by the local team. By the time participants reached these, they could slip out of the skis, have a seat and to enjoy meat and veggie sausages prepared over the fire. Many people went back for seconds, especially given how yummy the mustard “Sinappi” was that was squeezed out of a tube onto the sausages.

The highlight of the day was a large 30 meter high Seida rock and the deep Äkässaivo Lake, both which are considered sacred by the indigenous Sámi people. Covered in snow, both were very spiritual indeed.

During the break for those taking the shorter route, participants made their way down a small hill to a lake that was covered in about a half meter of ice. Riitta said, “You could park your car on this – if you could drive here.” Not that anyone was worried, but it certainly did give a feeling of safety knowing how thick it was.

While participants enjoyed the view around the lake, it was COLD. Looking for a way to keep warm, Julie led a spontaneous Bollywood dance lesson where everyone formed a line and followed her instructions, turning in circles, swaying back and forth. Laughter ensued and then everyone made their way back up the hill.

With skis back on, participants started making their way back to the lumberjack cabin, about two kilometers away. The route had been marked with blue poles and Finland Arctic Challenge signs so the Arctic Challengers spread out in the wilderness again.

Those on the shorter route began arriving back at camp just before 2pm. While those on the longer route returned about an hour later.

Everyone was sufficiently tired from now three full days of activities. After a rest and a small snack at the cafe, most went directly into the sauna and and the hot tub to warm up and to help with recovery. Rafiq jumped in the snow for a cool down. It was then nap time for all!!!

Everyone was hoping for more northern lights tonight as the skies are, once again, clear. And again, they did not disappoint as they arrived during dinner. People grabbed their cameras and phones and all got photos of the show!

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Finland Arctic Challenge: Stage 4

Thursday 12th February

Stage 4 – Dog sledding on the foothills of Pallas

Departure: Peurakaltio lumberjack cabin
Temperature: °C/°F.
Stage: Dog sledding
Distance: 20km / 12.5 miles
Arrival: Elämänluukku lumberjack cabin

The sky put on another magical show last night during and after dinner, with everyone grabbing their phones again to take shots of the ever-changing green streaks dancing in the sky. Not only was it more dramatic than the previous night, but they also appeared earlier, so everyone was awake for the drama!

The temperature remained bitterly cold, so it was only possible to remove gloves momentarily to take photos. None-the-less, everyone who wanted to take photos (to make everyone at home jealous!) could do so.

It was earlier to bed for most as three days of activities and extreme cold began catching up with the group. (Some would argue that perhaps the wine was catching up with them, too – LOL.)

Though breakfast started at the usual time of 7:30, the morning pace was much more relaxed as departure time for dog sledding wasn’t until 10:45. Again our hosts at the Peurakaltio lumberjack cabin prepared an entire table of delicious breakfast items that included gluten-free, vegan and “normal” options.

There was much excitement because it felt like a rest day. Today, the dogs would be doing the work, so the group could give their legs a break. The flip side to not expending energy is that it would feel colder.

The team packed up their belongings and put on their warmest gear: wool base layers, puffy coats, padded or puffy pants, gloves, mittens, two pairs of socks, hats and a one-piece winter suit. Between the low temps of -25 C to -30 C and the wind that would be felt on the sled, it was important to cover up all body parts to prevent frost bite.

After a briefing from the husky staff, people paired up and boarded their sleds. One person sat in the front covered with a blanket to help them stay warm, while the other person stood atop the sled rails, applying pressure to command the dogs to stop.

There’s no doubt that pulling a sled is in these husky dog’s blood. They bark excitedly until they are allowed to pull and they’ll continue to do so until the one mushing steps hard on the sled’s brake. If the brake is held down too long, the dogs will look back at you, begging to begin running again.

The route follows a snowmobile path that cuts through trees and meadows. This time of year, the sun is above the horizon, lighting up the snow and making for a picture-perfect day!

After the ride and once back at the starting point, everyone had a chance to thank and hug their huskies. They then returned to a warm tent for a hot berry drink and delicious cookies.

Now on to our accommodations for the evening. Tonight is the third and final traditional sleeping experience. Elämänluukku lumberjack cabin is a bit smaller than the other two where the group stayed this week, but it has all the comforts of home including fireplaces in each room and an outdoor sauna. Keijo, Markus and Sari, the owners of the base welcomed the Arctic Challengers with a steaming of lentil soup.

Some then took a walk in the woods to take photos given the perfect lighting on this sunny day. Late afternoon the sauna was ready, with women taking theirs at 5pm and then men at 6pm. Before the group knew it, it was time for dinner (and more wine!), topped off by tasty chocolate cake.

Our host Keijo gave the group a brief talk and slide show about the history of this particular traditional lumberjack cabin which was built in the 1950s. Unlike the other cabins which were built for the lumberjacks, this one was set up for the “executives” of the company and some of the elements were a bit nicer (like the interior wood) than cabins built for the workers. Our host also explained how the trees were cut down and lumber floated down the river to the Baltic Sea. What a tough life!

The lady of the house rang a bell when meals were ready and, in the traditional fashion, she passed them through a window from the kitchen “Elämänluukku”. When it was only men who stayed here, this gave her a bit of protection from them as they could not see her nor she them.
This is how the Arctic Challengers were served their meals tonight as well – in a true lumberjack fashion!

Our talented photographer Myke, and videographer Michael, then gave a presentation that included photos and videos from the week’s stages.

Tomorrow? Sadly, the final day of the Finland Arctic Challenge, fat tire biking on snowy trails. After being mostly in the wilderness for the past four days, they’ll be heading closer to Äkäslompolo village where they’ll find more locals, tourists and (happily) warm wilderness cafes.

Onward!

EARLY BIRD!! Register before 31 May 2026 for a €500 early bird discount!
Get a FREE personalised photo package (value 250 euros) when confirming your spot before 15 March 2026!!!!

Finland Arctic Challenge: Stage 5

13th February 2026

Stage 5 – Winter Biking amidst the Seven Fells

Departure: Elämänluukku Lumberjack Cabin
Temperature: -30 C / -25 F
Stage: Fat-tyre Biking
Distance: 32km / 20 miles
Arrival: Ylläsjärvi

It’s the final day of the Finland Arctic Challenge!

The Challangers stayed at Elämänluukku Lumberjack Cabin last night. Most bunked in the traditional cabins, while five brave souls opted for tent camping. It wasn’t as bad as it sounds, they reported, as there was a fire pit (and chimney) in the center. (Rumor has it, there was also a bit of alcohol to keep them warm.)

After a restful night, the group had another hearty breakfast and made sandwiches for themselves to take for extra fuel on this day of fat tire biking.

After donning helmets and having their bikes adjusted for their height, participants were ready to set off.

Riitta said, “There’s a quite bit of up hill at the beginning, which will be more difficult.” And she was right!

One person, after falling off the bike several times in the first stretch, decided fat tire biking in the snow was not for her, so she turned around.

The remainder of the group soldiered on. But there were many falling off their bikes into the soft snow for the first 4.5 miles before reaching a wilderness cafe. But not to worry, the snow was soft (Troy called it mashed potatoes) and there were no injuries from the falls. Instead, there was a lot of good humor about it while the group helped each other up and back on to the path.

One by one, participants were relieved when they arrived at the Kotamaja wilderness cafe (first sign of civilization!) for a hot drink, a bite to eat and the chance to warm up a bit before continuing on. “Continuing on?” one person asked. Yes, this was the halfway point for those taking the shorter distance and was the one third point for those taking the long route.

Helmets went back on, hand warmers were tucked into mittens and riders took off in small groups, led by different guides. Those taking the long route split off to the left, those on the shorter route went right.

Aaaaah – smiling faces at last. These paths were harder packed rather than the powdery snow that the first 8 kms / 4.5 miles were made of. Plus, much of it was downhill. Now the only thing the riders had to contend with was the wind on their faces. Any exposed parts at this pace could lead to frostbite.

The finish point was Solmu Cafe where participants started arriving in the afternoon. Those on the long route trickled in over an hour to two hours later and everyone cheered them on in celebration.

While waiting for the bus to Levi, everyone shared stories, beer and hot chocolate with mint(famous goodness in Finland!!!) while smiling and laughing about a job well done on the day’s ride and the week’s adventures.

Arriving back to civilization and a modern hotel (!), everyone immediately went to their rooms for a hot shower before meeting up for a wonderful three course dinner at Ravintola Ämmilä. Participants received their finisher certificates and more food, more drinks, more laughter and many stories from the week were shared.

With some departing very early in the morning, group hugs and well wishes were shared.

The local crew, Riitta, Timo, Laura, Markus and Susanna would like to thank the participants for saying YES to this adventure.

Would you like to join us for the next Finland Arctic Challenge on 7-13 February 2027? See details here and fill out our registration form. We’ll provide details on sending in your deposit.

EARLY BIRD!! Register before 31 May 2026 for a €500 early bird discount!
Get a FREE personalised photo package (total value 750 euros) when confirming your spot before 15 March 2026!!!!