Off the Trails: Hossa Snowshoeing Week

After breakfast and a short introduction to the week, we begin with basic snowshoeing techniques before heading out to the Lounatkoski rapids. These rapids once produced hydropower for the area, and along the route you can see an old grain mill and remains connected to timber floating history. We stop for a picnic lunch by the fire near the rapids before returning to the cabin via Jatkonvaara hill. In the evening, there is time to relax in the lakeside sauna, and those who want can also try ice swimming.

Snowshoeing: 7 km, approx. 6 hours.

Today starts with a short car transfer followed by a snowshoe hike to the famous Colour Rock. Here we see prehistoric rock paintings created around 4000 years ago — the largest in Finland. The paintings reflect a time when nature and spirits played an important role in everyday life. We enjoy lunch by the fire near the rock site with soup, sandwiches, and coffee prepared outdoors. Later, we return to the cabin for our final night before heading deeper into the wilderness.

Snowshoeing: 7 km, approx. 6 hours.

This morning we leave the base cabin and begin our journey toward the wilderness huts where we will stay for the next two nights. The trail follows ridges between frozen lakes and passes through snow-covered pine, spruce, and birch forests. Along the way, we stop at the Hossa Visitor Centre for lunch and a chance to visit the small souvenir shop. In the afternoon, we reach the simple cabins at Huosiusjärvi and Iikoski near the river. The cabins have no electricity or modern comforts, creating a true wilderness atmosphere with wood stoves and candlelight.

Snowshoeing: 5 km, approx. 5 hours.

After breakfast, we continue snowshoeing across ridges and frozen lakes. Reindeer are often seen in this area, so watch for tracks in the snow along the route. Around midday, we stop for a picnic lunch by an open fire near the rapids. After covering around 8 km, we arrive at the cabins on the shore of Lake Iso-Valkeinen, where we spend the night.

Snowshoeing: 8 km, approx. 7 hours.

Our final snowshoeing day takes us back to the starting point at Jatkonsalmi. Once back at the base camp, we can enjoy one last sauna and, for those interested, another ice swim. In the evening, we gather together for a farewell dinner to celebrate the end of the journey.

Snowshoeing: 7 km, approx. 6 hours.

After breakfast, transfer to Kuusamo airport for departure.