Kemi: Icetrek to Old Kemi
Step into the frozen wonderland of the Bothnian Bay on a thrilling Icetrek to Old Kemi. This guided winter adventure takes you across the vast frozen sea, where ice and snow stretch endlessly to the horizon, leading you to the historic roots of Kemi. Combining Arctic exploration with cultural discovery, this trek is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Lapland in its most authentic form.
During the long, cold winters, the sea outside Kemi freezes solid, creating a natural ice field unlike anywhere else in Europe. Walking across this frozen expanse is an unforgettable adventure, and the Icetrek to Old Kemi allows you to do just that. Led by a professional wilderness guide, you’ll strap on special ice cleats or snowshoes and step onto the icy surface of the Bothnian Bay, where silence, vastness, and beauty create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Your trek begins in Kemi’s modern harbor area, from where you set off across the frozen sea. With every step, you’ll feel the crunch of snow and ice underfoot as you traverse a landscape that is ever-changing, shaped by wind, frost, and shifting ice formations. Along the way, your guide will explain how locals have historically relied on the frozen sea as a route for trade, fishing, and travel during the long winters.
After an invigorating walk, the trek leads you to Old Kemi — the original settlement area before the town developed into its current harbor city. Here, you’ll step back in time as you learn about Kemi’s early history, its fishing traditions, and the role of the sea in shaping local life. The ruins, stories, and old structures provide a fascinating glimpse into the past, connecting the frozen trek with centuries of human resilience in the Arctic.
The tour also includes a warming break, where you’ll enjoy hot drinks and local snacks, giving you time to rest, take photos, and soak in the surreal beauty of the frozen bay. On clear days, the trek offers breathtaking views of the snowy coastline, distant islands, and the endless white horizon bathed in Arctic light. For photographers, the ice formations, cracks, and snowdrifts create stunning natural patterns, perfect for capturing the essence of Lapland’s winter.
Walking on the frozen sea is a rare privilege, available only in places where conditions are safe and ice is thick enough. With the guidance of an expert, you can enjoy this thrilling adventure with complete peace of mind, knowing all safety measures are taken. The Icetrek to Old Kemi is not just a hike — it’s a journey through time, nature, and culture, offering a unique perspective on Arctic life.
Approximately 2.5 hours
- Guided trek across the frozen sea of the Bothnian Bay
- Learn about the history and traditions of Old Kemi
- Experience the silence and vastness of Lapland’s icy wilderness
- Enjoy a camp-style break with hot drinks and local snacks
- Discover unique ice formations and breathtaking Arctic scenery
Prices start from 34 EUR (exact pricing may vary based on group size and additional services).
- Guided tour in English
- Rental of icetrekking poles
- Knowledge how to move safely on ice
- Icetrek and visit to Laitakari island
- History of Kemi in nutshell
- Scheme of wood industry
- Available only in winter (January–March, depending on ice conditions)
- Trekking distance may vary depending on weather and ice safety
- Moderate fitness required; suitable for most participants
- Warm winter clothing, hats, and gloves are essential
- Waterproof boots recommended for walking on snow and ice
Choose number of participants
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