Finland & the Finlandia-Hiihto in Focus
You Can't Beat The Grooming at the Finlandia-hiihto
Glacially carved landscapes, a rich tradition of skiing dating back centuries and a course that starts and finishes in the city of Lahti, yet meanders through the Finnish countryside make the Finlandia-hiihto Ski Marathon a Lumi favorite. This popular race kicks off Lumi’s Finlandia & Tartu Trip (February 6 - 16, 2026), where you’ll have the chance to earn two Worldloppet stamps on a single trip. Between the events that bookend the trip, ski through the snowy landscape and discover the ski cultures across the Baltic nations of Finland and Estonia.
If you’re still wondering where to travel this winter, the Finlandia-hiitho Ski Marathon is two weeks earlier than normal, so it doesn’t overlap with the American Birkebeiner, as it often does. Many guests are signed up this year, so they can ski the Finlandia and the Birkie this winter. There are still a few spots left in Lumi’s Finlandia & Tartu trip. Reach out soon to receive a detailed trip itinerary or to sign up!
Beautiful Skies and Endless Forests Make for a Beautiful Race, No Matter Your Pace
50+ Years of Race Culture
The Finlandia-Hiihto debuted in 1974 and is a founding member of the Worldloppet. Although the course has changed considerably over the decades from a point-to-point marathon, to a looped course meandering in and around Lahti, Finland, the same dedication and love for the sport shines through to this day. The course is rated medium in difficulty for its frequent, rolling climbs and descents across the scenic Salpausselkä ridgeline above the city. Be sure to soak in the view before ducking back into the forest!
Race Beneath the Stunning Ski Jump at the Finlandia-hiihto
Finns are proud of their ski culture and winter heritage, with several thousand people of all ages turning out to ski in the 20 km, 32 km, and 62km Classic and Freestyle events. Hundreds of volunteers from the local community help make this race happen, from readying racers at the start line to handing out Blueberry Soup and other snacks at sheltered aid stations in the snow-covered forests found along the course. One lucky volunteer even gets to roam Lahti Stadium as the Finski polar bear mascot! Although day-of excitement is undeniably high, the Finlandia-hiihto maintains a laid-back, pleasant atmosphere that’s consistent with Finland’s culture overall.
Make Sure to Get a High Five with the Finlandia-hiihto Mascot
A Stunning Finish in the Lahti Ski Stadium
Rising over Lahti Ski Stadium is the 73m tall K116 ski jump, the tallest of three enormous jumps that tower above the course and are visible from almost everywhere in Lahti. There’s no surprise that the finish line draws near because you can see it coming from kilometers away! It also makes for an incredible backdrop as you gear up for your race before setting off. Lumi guests even take the elevator to the top of the highest ski jump for expansive views of city and trails below.
Rest Assured, You Won't Be Climbing Hills This Steep!
No matter your ski ability, crossing the finish line in Lahti Ski Stadium is a memorable end to your ski. The final descent whisks you past grandstands paralleling the course, where you can feel the energy of a World Championship event as you wrap up a race of your own. There are very few places in the world with a stadium this size dedicated to cross country skiing.
2025 Lumi guest Greg Patz summarizes it perfectly: “High speed skiing down into the stadium at Lahti at the end of the marathon was a singular highlight for me and I will be reminded of it every time I watch World Cup skiing on television.”
We’re getting goosebumps just thinking about it!
Cheer On Racers With a Customary Ring of Your Cowbell
Cheers to a successful race at the Finlandia-Hiihto
Keep Your Energy Levels Up at Aid Stations Before, During, and After Your Race
Relax Sore Muscles With A Traditional Finnish Sauna
Take a quick dip in the icy waters following a post-ski sauna
Finland’s sauna culture is known the world over. The soothing sizzle of water poured on the hot rocks followed by an optional plunge into the icy waters of Lake Vesijärvi (or a roll in fresh snow) helps to clear the mind, relax your muscles and aids with cardiovascular fitness. There are several opportunities to take part in this mainstay of day-to-day Finnish culture on Lumi’s Finlandia & Tartu trip, where your trip leaders can share their secrets to the perfect sauna experience. Remember to pack a swimsuit alongside your ski gear! Your trip leaders will lead the way so you get the most out of this Finnish tradition.
One of the highlights of your time in Lahti is a visit to the Peltonen ski factory. Their behind the scenes tour of the proprietary process that goes into ski construction is an excellent learning opportunity for those who are curious how cross-country skis are made. No doubt you’ll start to notice how popular their bright orange skis are at the Finlandia-Hiihto and on the local trails after your visit.
Skiing in the Lahti area is an absolute joy, whether you take part in the Finlandia Worldloppet or are simply looking for a more peaceful experience exploring the Finnish Lakeland. Bookings for Lumi’s Finlandia & Tartu trip close in late-October and there are still a few spots available. Reach out soon to receive a detailed trip itinerary and secure your spot!
Learn more about Lumi’s Finlandia & Tartu trip in the following blog posts too:
See you on the trail,
Garrott
garrott@lumiexperiences.com