Ylläs

Ylläs is a fell and year‑round tourism area in Finnish Lapland, located in the Muonio and Kolari municipalities near the village of Äkäslompolo. The landscape is dominated by the Yllästunturi fell, which rises to about 718 meters above sea level and forms a recognizable feature of the region.

The area hosts Ylläs Ski Resort, one of Finland’s largest ski resorts, with numerous downhill slopes and lifts set among pine forests and open fell terrain. In winter the resort is complemented by an extensive cross‑country skiing network, offering hundreds of kilometers of prepared trails, including illuminated routes. Visitors also engage in snowshoeing, sledding and snowmobile activities.

Outside winter, Ylläs attracts visitors for outdoor recreation such as hiking and mountain biking, with the surrounding fells and wilderness providing scenic landscapes and opportunities for wildlife watching, including reindeer in the surrounding areas. The area is also known for its quiet, dark skies, which enhance opportunities for observing the northern lights in winter and enjoying the midnight sun in summer.

A portion of the Pallas‑Yllästunturi National Park lies within the Ylläs region. Established in 2005, the park protects high fells, wetlands and forests, and offers marked trails for visitors seeking a more wilderness-oriented experience.

Access and facilities are centered on Äkäslompolo, a hub for accommodations, restaurants and services. The nearest international gateway is Kittilä Airport, with road connections linking Muonio and Kolari, making Ylläs a popular destination for both winter sports and nature tourism.