Icetrek to Old Kemi

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the true essence of Lapland’s winter wilderness, the Icetrek to Old Kemi offers a compelling introduction. This guided tour takes you across the frozen sea to a historic island that predates the city of Kemi itself, combining adventure, history, and stunning natural scenery—all for just $56 per person.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll love the personalized guidance from knowledgeable local guides who bring the area’s history to life. Second, the trek itself promises an exhilarating time on sea ice, with the chance to learn safety skills that turn an icy landscape into a safe playground. However, it’s worth noting that this activity requires comfortable outdoor clothing and a good level of mobility, making it less suitable for very young children or those with certain health limitations. Still, for those with a sense of adventure and curiosity about Lapland’s past, this trip offers incredible value.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at the Icetrek to Old Kemi Experience

2 What’s Included and What You Should Know

3 Who Will Love This Tour?

4 A Few Final Thoughts

5 FAQ

Key Points

Historical Significance: Visit the island where Kemi’s origins trace back, offering insight into the region’s early industrial past.
Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging and informative, answering questions and sharing stories.
Active Ice Trek: About 2-3 km of walking on sea ice and flat terrain, suitable for those comfortable with outdoor activity.
Safety First: Basic instruction on moving safely on ice ensures beginners can enjoy the trek without stress.
Cultural Connection: Learn about the wood industry and local history through guided commentary and a visual scheme.
Value for Cost: At $56, the experience offers a good balance of adventure, education, and scenery.

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An In-Depth Look at the Icetrek to Old Kemi Experience

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kemi.

Starting Point: SnowCastle of Kemi

The tour begins at the SnowCastle of Kemi, a striking architectural marvel that’s worth a quick visit even before the trek. Here, the e-Coach team welcomes you and provides initial equipment, including ice trekking poles—an essential for stability on the slippery sea ice. The meeting point is straightforward, with the convenience of a central location right in Kemi.

Safety Briefing: Essential and Friendly

Before venturing onto the ice, you’ll receive a 15-minute safety briefing. This is not just a quick rundown but a friendly, straightforward session aimed at making sure everyone feels confident. Guides will teach you how to move on the ice and snowy conditions, which is especially helpful if you’re new to such environments.

Crossing the Sea Ice: The Heart of the Journey

The main adventure involves crossing 0.8 km of Ostrobothnian Sea ice to reach the island of Laitakari. This stretch is where the thrill of Arctic travel begins. The guides are attentive to safety but also eager to share their knowledge about the local environment. You’ll get tips on walking on flat, icy terrain and how to handle changing conditions.

The guides often comment on the beauty of the landscape—vast, open, and utterly quiet—making it a calming yet exhilarating experience to be out on the ice. As one reviewer noted, “The tour was extremely interesting, and the guide Marko’s knowledge made the trek across the ice a brilliant experience.”

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Visiting Laitakari Island: A Glimpse into the Past

Once on Laitakari, your guide will lead a two-hour guided tour of the island’s historical sites. You’ll visit the deserted sawmill and village ruins, where old industrial monuments stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. The island was inhabited and established before Kemi’s founding, serving as the original hub of activity.

The tour offers a fascinating look at how the wood industry operated and the role it played in shaping local history. One reviewer appreciated this by saying, “Marko knows the area’s history as he grew up there, which makes the stories even more engaging.” You’ll learn about the Russian Emperor Alexander II’s influence in the region, which adds a layer of international history to your Arctic adventure.

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Return Trek and Reflection

After soaking in the stories and exploring the ruins, you’ll trek back across the sea ice, retracing your steps to the SnowCastle. The total walking distance on ice amounts to about 2-3 km, which is manageable for most reasonably active travelers. The return journey allows you to reflect on the experience and enjoy the pristine winter scenery.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour’s price of $56 covers the guided experience in English, rental of icetrekking poles, and the knowledge needed to move safely on ice. The focus on education enhances the journey, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned adventurers alike.

You’ll also gain insights into the history of Kemi and the wood industry in the region, presented in a clear, approachable way. The tour ends back at the SnowCastle, making logistics simple.

However, thermal clothing is not included but can be rented if needed, which is helpful given the chilly conditions. Be sure to wear warm outdoor clothing, layered for insulation and waterproofing, to stay comfortable during the trek.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers eager to explore Arctic environments in a safe, guided manner. It’s ideal for those interested in local history and industry, offering a tangible connection to Kemi’s origins. The tour is suitable for most ages above 5, but less so for pregnant women, mobility-impaired travelers, or those over 80 or carrying over 150 kg, due to the physical activity involved.

Travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and personalized guides will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s a great choice for families with older children, couples, or solo travelers wanting a blend of history, scenery, and adventure.

A Few Final Thoughts

The Icetrek to Old Kemi stands out as a genuine Arctic adventure built for curious travelers. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach elevate the experience, transforming a simple trek into a memorable journey through history and nature. For a modest price, you get to cross frozen sea ice, explore a historic island, and learn about an important regional industry—all in a safe, structured environment.

The tour’s length and focus on safety and education make it a practical choice for those who want to taste the Arctic without taking on overly strenuous activities. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances adventure and storytelling, perfect for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of Lapland’s past while enjoying its spectacular winter landscapes.

If you’re drawn to authentic local stories and outdoor adventure in a setting that’s both beautiful and historically meaningful, this tour is worth considering. It’s a chance to get close to the ice and learn about the roots of Kemi in a way that’s both fun and insightful.

FAQ

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at the SnowCastle of Kemi, conveniently located in the city, making it easy to access.

How long does the entire tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with the main trekking and visiting the island included.

Is prior experience needed for ice trekking?
No prior experience is required. The guides teach the basics of moving safely on ice as part of the briefing.

Can children join this tour?
Children over 5 years old can participate, but it’s not suitable for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

Is thermal clothing included?
No, thermal outdoor clothing is not included but can be rented if needed; it’s recommended to dress warmly in layers.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, the activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those over 80 years of age or weighing over 150 kg.

What do I learn during the tour?
You’ll learn about the history of Kemi, the wood industry’s role in shaping the area, and the basics of safe movement on sea ice.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, weather conditions can lead to changes in routing or duration, but safety is the top priority.

How can I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience also offers flexible booking with pay later options.

This Icetrek to Old Kemi combines adventure, history, and Arctic scenery into a balanced, engaging experience. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about Lapland’s icy landscapes, it’s a memorable way to connect with Finland’s northern frontier.