Finlandia Ski Marathon Routes to Change – Original Plan Cannot Be Implemented Due to Snow Conditions

Due to challenging snow conditions, the organizers of the Finlandia Ski Marathon are forced to deviate from the original course plan. As no snowfall is forecast for the Lahti region, the 62-kilometer course cannot be implemented. Snow conditions will also cause changes to the other race distances.

“The forecast shows freezing temperatures, but no snowfall. We are taking advantage of the cold spell and producing more snow in addition to the over 5,000 cubic meters already made, but we are unable to cover the entire course with artificial snow,” says Markku Levanen, Event Director of the Finlandia Ski Marathon.

Planning of alternative routes is currently underway. The aim is to prepare the longest possible course, but like many other Worldloppet mass ski events, the Finlandia Ski Marathon will most likely have to resort to a loop course. Last weekend’s Dolomitenlauf in Austria was held on 10-kilometer loops. Snow reliability is challenging many mass ski event organizers.

“It seems likely that this time we will need to use a loop course at Finlandia. The length of the loop and the number of laps are still to be decided. However, weather conditions are favorable, and the Finlandia Ski Marathon will be held on a well-prepared track with good services and a joyful, communal atmosphere,” Levanen continues.

Due to the route changes, race distances will be somewhat shorter. Despite the likely changes, the event schedule will remain unchanged. The classic style races on Saturday and the freestyle races on Sunday will both start at 9:00 a.m. Relay exchange zones will change in line with the revised route. All route changes will be communicated in more detail during week 5 once plans are finalized.

The final price tier for the event will change this week, and participants can still register at the current price until Saturday, January 24.