Kukastunturin kierros
The hiking trail from Äkäshotel to Kukastunturi Fell provides some amazing views. The first part of the trail takes you to the shore of Äkäslompolo Lake, where the long uphill climb to the top of the fell begins.
You know you’ve reached the top when you see a centuries-old pine tree. The view from the summit is dominated by a chain of fells and inspires a great feeling of freedom.
The trail descends through a beautiful, open fell heath to the Kotamaja Lapp hut, where it’s time to pull out your wooden cup and see who has the tastiest sandwiches. The rocky trail continues towards Hangaskuru Lapp hut and a wide-open aapa mire surrounded by tussock cottongrass rustling in the wind.
After the forest section, the Hormistonjänkä duckboards make for some easy walking. Sit down on the duckboards and take a closer look at the beautiful mire plants. You might even find some cloudberries. During the autumn, the warm colours of the mire might make you think about putting on a warm pullover.
Author’s recommendation

Rest stops
Kotamaja Lapp HutHangaskurun puolikota
Erämaakahvila Kotamaja
Jounin Kauppa
Lapland Hotels Äkäshotelli
Safety information
The weather can change rapidly on the fell, and visibility can deteriorate very quickly. Always prepare for cold and rain; you should be prepared for wintery conditions in spring and autumn even if the weather is warm when you set off.
Mobile phone reception is not available on all hiking routes. The signal is usually better in higher and more open terrain. Download the 112 Finland application free of charge and activate it before starting your hike. Remember that mobile phone batteries run down quickly in cold conditions.
Tips and hints
Read the instructions and rules for the national park at https://nationalparks.fi/pallas-yllastunturi
Free trail map are available at https://retkikartta.fi
For hiking instructions, rules and tips, go to https://nationalparks.fi/hikinginfinland
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
Note
Getting there
https://nationalparks.fi/pallas-yllastunturi
Parking
FreeCoordinates
Equipment
Dress according to the weather and choose footwear that is suitable for varied terrain.
Take something to eat, a drink, warm clothing, a fully charged phone, matches, toilet paper, a map, a first aid kit and a rubbish bag with you.
Finnish tap water is very clean. Fill your water bottles before starting out, because you may not necessarily have access to natural water. The availability of natural water varies, and each person uses it at their own risk.
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