Timeline
09:38
Arrive at the Kiilopää trailhead and begin the hike to the fell top (546 m). The ascent offers a chance to enjoy the fell heaths and landscapes before the crowd arrives.
10:53
Stand at the top and watch the sun rise at 10:53. The sun stays low all day, setting toward the SSW, creating a unique low-angle light across the snow and heath.
11:53
Descend from the fell. The trails are 1–6 km long, allowing for a leisurely walk back down as the day lightens.
Local tip
There are no lifts at Kiilopää, so be prepared for a physical climb. The area is some 15 km south from Saariselkä.
Check before you go
- Check the route for transport from Saariselkä to Kiilopää, as no public transport is listed in the context.
- Dress warmly for January temperatures and ensure you have appropriate footwear for the gravel roads and footpaths.
- Note that sunrise is late at 10:53 in January, so plan your departure accordingly.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Saariselkä (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).