Ski course

In 2011 Saami Ski race will be skied from Hetta, Finland to Kautokeino, Norway. The course runs through untouched wilderness areas, mostly along marshland and lakes, surrounded by fells. On the way, the course passes by the village of Näkkälä, which is a small community living of reindeer herding. On the Norwegian side the trail passes by small reindeer herding villages.

The first 10 kilometers of the 90 km is quite flat. You will pass by a reindeer fence. The course runs on lake through a beutiful canyon. The first service stop is located almost 10 km after the start, at Närpistö. After Närpistö starts a light ascent towards the state border. The hardest ascent will be before the finish line in Kautokeino.

The second service stop is called Näkkälä refuge, which used to be reindeer herder's shelter in the old days, when the herders did not have snowmobiles, but passed several days with the reindeer on the pastures on skis in winter time. Nowadays this refuge serves hikers and is owned by Metsähallitus.

In the village of Näkkälä is located the start of the 60 km race and a service point for the  90 km skiers. There's a lovely view on the fells from Näkkälä. Palkisoaivi by the lake is 540 meters high, and when getting closer to the  border you can have a look at Jiestivaara (620m). From the border opens a view on the Termisvaara.

From the village of Näkkälä the course follows several lakes: Tuorkottaja, Raaskaltio and Kaamus. The last service stop on the Finnish side is located by the state border. By this service stop it is possible to get your skis waxed.

There is a fence between Finland and Norway so that the reindeer would not cross the state borders. You will pass through the fence through a gate that is used by the local people to visit friends and relatives.

 In Kautokeino the course follows lakes and marshland as well. The service stops are located every 10 km on the Norwegian side too. Last service stop is 5 kilometers before the Finish. Before the finising area there is a steep ascent to the stadium.

Course profile

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